Monthly Archives: March 2017

Etched in Bone by Anne Bishop – Review, Interview & Giveaway

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Etched in Bone  by Anne Bishop – Review, Interview & Giveaway

 

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Etched in Bone
The Others series – Book #5
by Anne Bishop
Release Date: March 7, 2017

Etched in BoneAmazon / B&N / Kobo / BAM / Book Depository

Description:
After a human uprising was brutally put down by the Elders—a primitive and lethal form of the Others—the few cities left under human control are far-flung. And the people within them now know to fear the no-man’s-land beyond their borders—and the darkness…

As some communities struggle to rebuild, Lakeside Courtyard has emerged relatively unscathed, though Simon Wolfgard, its wolf shifter leader, and blood prophet Meg Corbyn must work with the human pack to maintain the fragile peace. But all their efforts are threatened when Lieutenant Montgomery’s shady brother arrives, looking for a free ride and easy pickings.

With the humans on guard against one of their own, tensions rise, drawing the attention of the Elders, who are curious about the effect such an insignificant predator can have on a pack. But Meg knows the dangers, for she has seen in the cards how it will all end—with her standing beside a grave.

 

Review:

Etched in Bone by Anne Bishop is the 5th book in her wonderful The Others series.  Anne Bishop is one of the authors that are always on the top of my list.  She never ever fails in giving us another fantastic story in each of everyone of her series.   Etched in Bone ends the Meg/Simon story arc, and it was a fabulous and exciting ending.  I know Anne will continue The Others world in a different arc that will come next year, but I will miss the wonderful characters in Lakeside.

At the end of the last book (Marked in Flesh), the feared Elders (old time powerful  Others) and Elementals eliminated the humans who plotted and brutally killed many of the terra indigene (the Others) throughout the world.  A refresher:  The Others are non humans, such as wolves, crows, vampires, elementals, grizzlies, etc), who control most of the world. The series revolves around Meg Corbyn, a human, who is also a blood prophet. Since Meg has arrived in Lakeside Courtyard, the terra indigene have protected her and learned to change their ways to live with humans.

In Etched in Bone. Lakeside and other communities, who have survived the mass destruction work toward returning things to normal.  Bishop does a wonderful job allowing us to see how Meg has helped changed both human and others perspectives.  The police play a big part in this story, with Monty in the middle, since his brother has come to live in Lakeside.  Jimmy Montgomery is bad to the bone, and upon arrival has expected to live freely, taking whatever he wants; but soon, the Others begin to see that he is trouble.  When Simon and his group want to evict Jimmy immediately, they are stopped by two Elders, who want to learn more how humans and the others get along; they want to see how Jimmy is different than other humans.

Jimmy was one of those nasty people who will use his own family to benefit him.  A few of times during the story, he plots to take what doesn’t belong to him, and even with the dire result on the first attempt, he continues to plot again.  Monty and Twyla (their mother) have to separate themselves from him, so not to be in the middle of the eventual fallout; and throughout the story, we kept hoping for nasty Jimmy to be thrown out of Lakeside. 

The last third of the book was extremely exciting, with pulse pounding action that had us on the edge of our seat.  Meg’s life was in danger, and they all knew, if anything happens to our Meg, poor Simon would leave Lakeside heartbroken.  It will take the police, the Elders and the rest of the terra indigene to work together to try and save Meg. Will Meg survive? Will Simon and Meg finally find a way to be together?

What I loved the most about Etched in Bone was spending time, and probably our last with these wonderful fantastic characters Anne Bishop has given us….Meg, Simon, Vlad, Tess, Sam, Nathan, Henry, Merri Lee, Monty, Burke,Skippy, &  the Elementals, just to name a few. I for one will sorely miss them .  I also love that Anne has given us a satisfactory conclusion to Simon & Meg (and Sam).  Bravo Anne Bishop for another fantastic book, and series that no one should miss.  I wholly recommend you read The Others series by starting with the first book, Written in Red. 

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

Interview

Anne Bishop photo

 

Hi, Anne.  We are excited to have you back with us again at The Reading Cafe, to discuss your new release “Etched in Bone”, as well as to give us an update as to what else you may be working on. 

 

 

TRC:  For those of our members who have not read this series, can you please give us a description of the premise of The Others? 

Anne: The Others novels take place on an alternate Earth where the earth natives, the supernatural beings known as the Others, have always been the dominant predators, evolving with the world. Humans, while inventive and clever, are nowhere near the top of the food chain and have to deal with the Others for all the natural resources they need. The appearance of Meg Corbyn, a blood prophet who has run away from her controller, adds to the ever-present tension between species in the city of Lakeside. Meg’s presence is the pebble that starts the avalanche of changes in Lakeside, and the question, more and more, becomes who is going to survive those changes.

TRC:  Etched in Bone is being released tomorrow.  Can you please give us a brief description of the book?

Anne:  It’s the post-war story. Communication between regions is broken, so no one really knows how many human cities and towns in Thaisia still exist. Thanks to Simon, Meg, and Monty, Lakeside is in pretty good shape, but there is a sense of isolation and uncertainty. And the thinning of the human herd isn’t done. Two Elders return to Lakeside to observe the humans and Others interacting. When Monty’s brother, Jimmy, arrives in Lakeside, the Elders have a chance to observe something else—how one human’s actions can break the trust and balance in a pack made of humans and Others.   

TRC: How did you come up with the idea of The Others?

Anne:  It wasn’t one idea but a lot of little ideas that clicked together in the right way. The “ah-ha” moment was when I wondered what the world would be like if the Others weren’t humans that became something else but were a different species altogether, supreme predators that had the ability to take another shape in order to mimic and study other predators. That meant that even when they took the shape of a human, they wouldn’t think like a human. That collision of world views intrigued me. Once I added the idea of the blood prophets, and Meg, who becomes the catalyst for those world views colliding, the story began to tell itself.  

TRC:  Etched in Bone is the final book in The Others series.  How hard was it writing the finale of Meg, Simon, Sam and the others in Lakeside?  I know I will miss them. 

Anne:  I don’t feel like I left them behind. They just stepped off the stage to let other characters have a chance to stand in the spotlight. They told the story of world-shattering changes, and their work is done. I picture them all heading to a beach on the shores of Lake Etu. Meg and the female pack will build sand castles. Simon and Sam will dig the moats and chase the seagulls. Everybody will have a good time.  

TRC:  We know you are continuing with a new series, Lake Silence, in the same world as The Others.  What can you tell us about the new series coming in 2018? 

Anne:  I don’t know yet if it’s a new series or a standalone book in the Others’ world.  I started the story as a “Crowgard cozy”—a kind of story that would be sold in Howling Good Reads. When I started it, I wasn’t sure if it would be a short story or a novella or a novel. I just wrote to see what would happen with these characters. Then, because my stories always change from simple to layered, “cozy” turned into “suspense” and grew into a novel.  

TRC: How many books are you planning for your new series?   

Anne: That will depend on whether or not Vicki and Aggie find more bodies.  

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

Anne: That depends on the season. In the winter, I read, watch movies, and spend time with friends. From spring through fall, I putter in the garden instead of watching movies.

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?

Anne:  I don’t outline. I think a lot—sometimes for years—before I begin writing the story. I make notes as characters begin to take shape and the place comes into sharper and sharper focus. I have a general idea of the storyline but the fun is discovering how the characters get from that first meeting and problem to be solved to the end of the story. I have a little space in my house that is the writing corner. That’s where I go to meet the Muse. I start after breakfast and work until I reach my word quota for the day. Then I take care of email and paperwork for a couple of hours. I do that five days a week. The other two days I spend on the mundane things that keep the household running.

TRC:   Would you like to add anything else? 

Anne: Etched in Bone is my twentieth novel. In 2018, I’ll celebrate the twentieth anniversary of the publication of my first novel, Daughter of the Blood. Some of you have been sharing these worlds and stories with me from the beginning. Some of you are just discovering the Others and the Blood and the other worlds I’ve created. Thank you. It’s a joy to share the people and their stories with you. 

TRC:  Thank you, Anne for giving us an update on Etched in Bone, as well as what we can look forward to with your new series.    It was a pleasure having you visit us again. 

To learn more about Anne, you can find her at the following links
          Website / Facebook /  Courtyard / Goodreads

 

Giveaway

Anne is graciously offering TWO (2) giveaways.
           – A Hardcover copy of ETCHED IN BONE to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe
         –   Paper copy of the first Four book in The Others series 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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8. Giveaway is open to USA only.

9. Giveaway runs from March 6 -10, 2017

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Undiscovered (Amoveo Rising #1) by Sara Humphreys-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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UNDISCOVERED (Amoveo Rising #1) by Sara Humphreys-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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UNDISCOVERED
Amoveo Rising #1
by Sara Humphreys
Release Date: March 7, 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal romance

Undiscovered

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 7, 2017

He’s the man of her dreams
A long time ago, Zander Lorens was cursed to walk the earth stripped of his Dragon Clan powers. Every night, trapped in a recurring nightmare, Zander relives his darkest moment. He can hardly believe it when the dream changes and a beautiful young woman appears. Zander believes she’s the key to ending his torment. Finding her in the real world is one thing, but how will he convince her of who-and what-she really is?

She’s the end to his nightmare
Rena McHale uses her unique sensitivity as a private investigator, touting herself as a “human divining rod” and finder of the lost. By day she struggles with sensory overload, and by night her sleep is haunted by a fiery dragon shifter. Nothing in her life makes sense, until the man from her dreams shows up at her door with a proposition..

••••••••••

REVIEW: UNDISCOVERED is the first installment in Sara Humphreys’ contemporary AMOVEO RISING paranormal romance series-a spin of from her AMOVEO LEGEND series. This is dragon shifter Zander Lorens, and private investigator Rena McHale’s story line. You do not have to have read the previous series to understand the story line premise. Any important information is revealed where necessary.

SOME BACKGROUND: The Amoveo are an ancient race of telepathic, dream walking shape shifters who hide their identity behind a human façade. If a male Amoveo has not found his mate by the time he has turned thirty, he will begin to lose his ‘animal other’ and live out the rest of his life as human; if an Amoveo loses his or her mate, they will slowly lose the ability to shift and die a lonely death. The Amoveo’s continued war with the Purists finds the Amoveo and the newly discovered ‘hybrids’ seeking refuge at the Royal compound where shifters and their mates are protected from the outside world. Not all shape-shifters are considered Amoveo, some are ancient cousins thought to no longer exist.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Zander and Rena) using present day, dream walking and memories from the past, UNDISCOVERED is the story of family, brotherhood, betrayal and love. For close to 500 years Zander Lorens and his twin brother Zed have been living a nightmare. Cursed to walk the earth without the ability to shift Zander struggles with the reality that his twin is caught between life and death. Hoping to release his brother from a prison not of his making Zander approaches the woman who has starred in his dreams-the dreams he believes will answer his brother’s cries. What ensues is the building relationship between Zander and Rena, and Rena’s struggle to convince Zander that she is his mate.

Rena is somewhat of an anomaly in the human world. With the ability to ‘see’ the past through touch our heroine uses her abilities to as a private investigator. Orphaned at an early age Rena never found the love of a family until a ‘grifter’ from the street taught Rena how to survive. Zander and his brother Zed are the last of their kind but a 500 year old curse threatens to keep the brothers apart for all of eternity and Zander hopes that Rena McHale is the key to solving their problem.

The relationship between Zander and Rena begins as a business arrangement. Zander believes Rena is his brother’s mate, and her presence will bring back the brother with whom he battles in their nightly dreams. There is plenty of sexual tension and frustration, back and forth as Zander struggles with his attraction to the woman he believes is his brother’s mate. The $ex scenes are intimate but limited.

For fans and readers of Sara’s THE AMOVEO LEGEND series you will be happy to know that several characters cross over for familiarity and cohesion including Dante and Kerry, Prince Dominic and his mate Tatiana, William and Layla.

UNDISCOVERED is a story of heartbreak and loss; one family’s struggle to move forward from the past, and one brother’s mistaken belief that he is to blame for his brother’s trauma. The premise is imaginative and intriguing; the characters are colorful, confident and intelligent; the romance is passionate but struggles with our hero’s inability to see the truth. UNDISCOVERED is an engaging tale of destined mates.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

 

Excerpt

When he reached Rena’s office door, he paused for a moment to steel his resolve. There was no denying he was attracted to her, but she wasn’t for him, and it was a fact he had to keep mind; otherwise, history would surely repeat itself.
“I know you’re out there! I heard you coming up the stairs.” Her voice was muffled but welcoming. “Come on in. We have paperwork to deal with.”
Zander balanced the coffee tray carefully and opened the door before quickly stepping inside. His secret hope that she would somehow be less attractive than yesterday was swiftly squelched when he got an eyeful of her. Wearing a well-fitted brown leather jacket, a clingy black blouse, jeans that seemed to be painted onto her rounded derriere, and a pair of tall, black boots, she looked even more desirable than the day before.
He must have stood there staring for longer than was socially acceptable because the look on her face quickly shifted to one of concern.
“What?” She brushed at her blouse and closed the file cabinet drawer. “Did I get something on my shirt?”
“No.” He looked away quickly and adjusted the tray of coffee in his hands.
“You look fine.”
“Gee, thanks,” Rena said with a sigh. “Just the level of awesome I was going for.”
He had insulted her. Perfect. Sure. This was exactly how he wanted to start their journey. Could he be a bigger asshat? Rena must have been asking herself the same question because she gave him the side eye before opening the folder in her hands.
“Please, sit down.” She slipped into the chair behind her desk and gestured to the seat across from her. “I have the forms you need to fill out a—”
“Black, right?” Zander placed the cardboard cup on the desk along with the bag and sat in the chair across from her. “I wasn’t sure what you wanted for breakfast, so I got a couple of options. There’s a chocolate doughnut, a bagel, and in case you’re one of those non-carb eaters, I threw in some beef jerky and a cheese stick.”
“Thank you,” Rena said slowly.
She stared at the coffee for a few seconds before finally picking it up. Her energy signature rippled as her fingers curled around the cup and those big, brown eyes widened slightly. He had obviously surprised her. Good. He liked knowing he could ruffle her tough exterior. This was a woman who tried to act like she had it all together, and for the most part, she probably did.
Zander blew on the steaming cup in his hands and tried to hide a satisfied smirk. Rena studied him warily and opened the lid, peeking at the liquid inside before closing it up again.
“You did say you take your coffee black, didn’t you?”
“Yes.” The word fell from her lips slowly. “Thank you.”
She glanced in the bag and, to his great delight, pulled out the chocolate doughnut and proceeded to take a big bite.
“That’s really flipping delicious,” she said around a mouthful the pastry.
“I’m glad you’re enjoying it. It’s refreshing to meet a woman who isn’t afraid to indulge in something sweet or worried about getting fat.”
He liked women with curves. It gave a man something to hold on to, and Rena McHale certainly had a body he would—
What the hell was he thinking?
Zander cleared his throat and sat up straighter in the chair. Rena was about to take another bite, but the doughnut hovered in midair and she gave him yet another look that told him he was an idiot.
“I’m not saying you need to watch your weight. I just meant that—”
“Don’t worry about it,” she said, rolling her eyes.
“I’m sorry if I offended you. I’m not great with people and I put my foot in my mouth a lot.”
Why was he bringing her coffee and breakfast anyway? He should stick to business and keep the pleasantries to a minimum. Trying to be nice was only making it awkward between them.
“Then you and I should get along great,” she said with a laugh. “I’m not one to beat around the bush. I prefer being direct.”
“Yeah, I noticed.”
Rena’s intelligent eyes peered at him above the rim of her cup and she took another sip. Zander stilled as she studied him wordlessly. A surge of heat flashed in his chest as he held her gaze, and even though he wanted to blame it on the hot coffee, he knew that would have been a lie. There was no denying that she stirred something inside him, a deep, primal urge to claim her and mark her as his, but he also knew it was not to be.
Not if he wanted to free his brother.

About The author

FOLLOW: Website /Twitter / Facebook / Goodreads/

Sara HumphreysSara is a graduate of Marist College, with a B.A. Degree in English Literature & Theater. Her initial career path after college was as a professional actress. Some of her television credits include, A&E Biography, Guiding Light, Another World, As the World Turns and Rescue Me.

In 2013 Sara’s novel UNTAMED won two PRISM awards–Dark Paranormal and Best of the Best. Sara has been a lover of both the paranormal and romance novels for years. Her sci-fi/fantasy/romance obsession began years ago with the TV Series STAR TREK and an enormous crush on Captain Kirk. That sci-fi obsession soon evolved into the love of all types of fantasy/paranormal; vampires, ghosts, werewolves, and of course shape shifters.

Sara is married to her college sweetheart, Will. They live in New York with their 4 boys. For a full list of Sara’s books and reading order, please visit her Website.

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Sweet Rivalry (1001 Dark Nights ) by K. Bromberg-Review, Excerpt & Book Tour

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SWEET RIVALRY (1001 Dark Nights) by K.Bromberg-Review, Excerpt and Book Tour

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SWEET RIVALRY
1001 Dark Nights
by K. Bromberg
Release Date: February 28, 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance

Sweet Rivalry

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 28, 2017

Ryder Rodgers had a plan.

He was going to stride into the conference room, do the required song and dance over the next five days, and win the biggest contract of his career. But when he walked in and heard the voice of one of his competitors, all his plans were shot to hell.

Harper Denton. She was always on top. In college. First in their class. Always using every advantage to edge him out to win the coveted positions. The only one who could beat him. His academic rival. More like a constant thorn in his side. And his ego’s.

When he heard her voice, he was brought back to years before. To the bitter taste of being second best. But the woman who meets his gaze is nothing like the drab wallflower he used to know. Hell no. She was all woman now: curves, confidence, and staggering sex appeal. And no doubt, still brilliant.

The fact that she’s gorgeous and bright won’t distract him. This time, Ryder’s determined to be the one on top. But not if Harper can help it.

•••••••••••

REVIEW: SWEET RIVALRY by K. Bromberg is a stand alone, adult, contemporary erotic, romance storyline-the latest addition to the 1001 Dark Nights multi-authored series. This is Ryder Rodgers and Harper Denton’s story line.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Ryder and Harper) SWEET RIVALRY is a second change story line that follows the rekindling relationship between former college rivals-Ryder Rodgers and Harper Denton. Thirteen years earlier Ryder and Harper’s tenuous and complicated relationship was destroyed by a classroom competition that saw hour heroine moving forward without looking back. Fast forward thirteen years wherein Harper and Ryder are once again competing but in a professional capacity. What ensues is the rebuilding relationship between Harper and Ryder, and the battle to see who will come out on top.

Harper has always harbored feelings of lust and attraction for Ryder Rodgers but never expected her feelings to be reciprocated in any way. Their competitive nature finds the couple in a constant state of sexual awareness and energy even as they both struggle for the same job.

The relationship between Harper and Ryder is acrimonious. Harper’s attraction to Ryder keeps our heroine on the defensive with cutting remarks and a sharp-tongued retort at every turn. Ryder knows that the woman he lost years before is the same woman he desires when all is said and done. The $ex scenes are provocative and intense.

SWEET RIVALRY is a quick read; a novella length, stand alone second chance story line between two people whose attraction to one another has never waivered; whose need for one another will be tested during the heat of battle and competition. The premise is imaginative and stirring; the romance is fiery and spirited; the characters are passionate, colorful and energetic. SWEET RIVALRY is an engaging and hopeful tale of rivals in love and life.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

Sexy lovers foreplay at luxury flat, sensual milf foreplay with young man

 

Direct Link to trailer:

https://video214.com/play/BM1K0tyoR0IaVaGFMmcSaQ/s/dark

 

Excerpt Black and Hot Pink

Work first. Reward sex next.
That’ll give me something to look forward to during the next few days. The ones I can’t wait to dive headfirst into that will be an ever-changing combination of stress, exhaustion, strategy, and manipulation. An unscripted dance amongst us bidders while we size each other up, calculate our numbers, and explain to the developer why we’re the most valuable candidate for the job.
It’s the game I love. The competition I thrive on. My return to the job that I’ve been desperate to make.
And there’d be no better way to make a statement that Harper Denton is back than to leave this building with the multimillion dollar contract for Meteor Development tucked securely under my arm.
And just like that, as a reward for my positive thinking, when I look up, there he is, in full view.
I take in the expensive briefcase, the venti Starbucks, and the expensive watch peeking out from beneath the cuff of his shirt. And just my luck that while I’m afforded a full view of his body, the one thing I’m the most curious about is obscured by his hand holding his cell phone up to his ear: his face.
So instead I drink him in. He really is magnificent. I note his posture and the way he carries his body when he moves forward a few steps. There’s an air about him that says he’s no-nonsense and in control, powerful, and at the same time he doesn’t seem uptight. He has that Southern
California professional vibe. I can’t put my finger on it but he reminds me of someone I can’t quite place. Regardless, a man who can pull off being in control and playful has definite merits.
Like “spank me until my body aches in want, and then make a game of hitting each erogenous zone with his tongue before he’ll satisfy that ache he created and let me come” type of merits.
The mind-blowing-sex reward just became even more appealing.

 

 

 

About the Author Black and rose

K. BrombergNew York Times Bestselling author K. Bromberg writes contemporary novels that contain a mixture of sweet, emotional, a whole lot of sexy, and a little bit of real. She likes to write strong heroines, and damaged heroes who we love to hate and hate to love.

She’s a mixture of most of her female characters: sassy, intelligent, stubborn, reserved, outgoing, driven, emotional, strong, and wears her heart on her sleeve. All of which she displays daily with her husband and three children where they live in Southern California.

On a whim, K. Bromberg decided to try her hand at this writing thing. Since then she has written The Driven Series (Driven, Fueled, Crashed, Raced, Aced), the standalone Driven Novels (Slow Burn, Sweet Ache, Hard Beat, and Down Shift), and a novella (UnRaveled).

Her plans for 2017 include a sports romance duet (2 books: The Player, The Catch) and the Everyday Heroes series (3 books: Cuffed, Combust, and Cockpit). She’s also writing a novella for the 1,001 Dark Night series that will be out in February 2017.

She loves to hear from her readers so make sure you check her out on social media.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Pinterest | Amazon

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Sweet Victory (Fighting For Love #4) by Gina L Maxwell-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

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SWEET VICTORY (Fighting for Love #4) by Gina L Maxwell-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

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SWEET VICTORY
Fighting for Love #4
by Gina L. Maxwell
Release Date: February 27, 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance, MMA

Sweet Victory

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 27, 2017

Confident but distrustful Sophie Caldwell needs help if she’s going to save her family business. Her grandma left one rule for Sophie to maintain ownership from her uncle before she’s thirty: get married. But how does she get her uncle off her ass when she’s only twenty-seven and hasn’t had a boyfriend in years?

Lean, cut, British-born MMA fighter Xander James has never lost a fight, and he’s not about to start now. On the brink of a comeback to be a UFC champion, his landlord wants to take away his last chance by shutting down his gym. No. Hell no. Fortunately, his landlord’s niece has a problem of her own. Time for a proposal she can’t refuse.

••••••••

REVIEW: SWEET VICTORY is the fourth installment in Gina L Maxwell’s contemporary, adult FIGHTING FOR LOVE erotic, romance series focusing on the men of the MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) and the women they love. This is British-born MMA fighter and gym owner Xander James, and bakery owner Sophie Caldwell’s story line. SWEET VICTORY 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 (Xander and Sophie) SWEET VICTORY follows the building relationship and marriage of convenience between MMA fighter Alexander ‘Xander’ James, and baker Sophie Caldwell. When Sophie’s uncle, a real estate developer makes plans to tear down and rebuild the city block upon which Sophie’s bakery sits, our heroine realizes that her life long dream is about to implode. Taking over her grandmother’s bakery has always been her desire but she doesn’t gain total control until she turns thirty or marries in the meantime. Enter MMA fighter Xander James whose own business is threatened by the real estate mogul, and the man who offers Sophie deal of a lifetime. What ensues is the marriage of convenience between Sophie and Xander, and the growing love between two people who have 180 days to make things work.

The relationship between Xander and Sophie is of mutual benefit between acquaintances who have lusted after one another for a number of years. Sophie’s uncle suspects their marriage is nothing more than a business arrangement and is bent on destroying his niece in the process. Xander is a former MMA fighter who is resolved to make a come back following a career ending injury; Sophie is a woman determined to protect the business her grandmother had always loved. The $ex scenes are intimate, seductive and compelling without the use of over the top graphic, sexual text and language.

We are introduced to Sophie’s grandmother, her uncle Richard Caldwell, and her co-worker Kristin, as well as the cameo appearances of several of the MMA fighters previously introduced in Gina’s FIGHTING FOR LOVE series.

The world building continues to look at the MMA fighters and their struggle to win. Sophie and Xander are determined to protect their businesses any way they can, and a marriage of convenience seems like the perfect solution-as long as no one falls in love.

SWEET VICTORY is a sweet, sexy and spicy story line where family is everything including the family of your heart. The premise is heartwarming; the romance is intoxicating and fated; the characters are passionate and fun. SWEET VICTORY’s release comes a number of years after the last installment so if you are a fan of Gina’s Fighting For Love series, you may have to do a re-read to catch up on your favorite MMA fighters.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

about the author

Website / Goodreads / Facebook /Twitter / Instagram

Gina MaxwellGina L. Maxwell is a full-time writer, wife, and mother living in the upper Midwest, despite her scathing hatred of snow and cold weather. An avid romance novel addict, she began writing as an alternate way of enjoying the romance stories she loves to read. Her debut novel, Seducing Cinderella, hit both the USA Today and New York Times bestseller lists in less than four weeks, and she’s been living her newfound dream ever since.

When she’s not reading or writing steamy romance novels, she spends her time losing at Scrabble (and every other game) to her high school sweetheart, doing her best to hang out with their teenagers before they fly the coop, and dreaming about her move to sunny Florida once they do.

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Stormchaser / Hurricane (Cutter Cay #4 & #5) by Cherry Adair-Reviews, Excerpt & Giveaway

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Stormchaser / Hurricane (Cutter Cay #4 & #5) by Cherry Adair-Reviews, Excerpt & Giveaway

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STORMCHASER
Cutter Cay #4
by Cherry Adair
Release Date: March 7, 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary,romance, action

Stormchaser

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 7, 2017

In the darkest storm…

Nick, Logan, and Zane Cutter are a tightknit, unstoppable force in the family treasure-hunting business. Now that half-brother Jonah has arrived at the scene, he’s got a lot to prove—and a powerful enemy who wants to stop him dead in his tracks.

Love will find a way….

A perilous sea journey. A bitter nemesis. A woman whose spectacular beauty and talents are to die for…Over and over, Jonah will be tested. Is he worthy of carrying the Cutter name? With his eyes on the prize, Jonah will fight with all his heart. But desire often comes with a price.

••••••••••

REVIEW: Stormchaser is book four of Cherry Adair’s Cutter Cay series. This is a wonderful five book series. I’ve started with Stormchaser and loved every second of it. It can definitely stand alone.

This is an adventure/romance series with all the trimmings and more. The plot is fast paced and well thought out. The characters are realistic and well developed. The romance sizzles and the intrigue and adventure never end.

This is the story of Jonah Cutter and Dr. Calista West (Rydell). An imaginative story about finding the lost city of Atlantis! Yes, it is! As well as other treasure. Adair pulls off an intriguing plot and wraps it in and exciting package of true love. She does it with such zest for life and yet manages to remain true to the exciting premise of otherworldly science, not to mention good old-fashioned human greed.

Jonah is one of the Cutter brothers (from another mother, but accepted by the brothers) and wants to prove himself to his successful brothers and show them how dedicated he and brilliant he is.

Dr. Calista West (a.k.a. Callie) is/was married to Adam Case, brother of the Cutter rival, Rydell Case. She uses her professional name, not her married one. There’s a lot of bad business and blood between these families. She actually had ulterior motives for taking this job, besides being paid four time her usual rate. Rydell wants her to spy on Cutter and let him know what treasure he’s after.

The attraction between the two main characters is immediate and very hot. Both fight the attraction with all they have. Callie uses her wedding ring (her husband died four years earlier due to illness) to keep single males at bay. Jonah, coming from a father that was unfaithful to both wives…doesn’t believe in poaching. The angst is sizzling as they fight the attraction. Callie is just as attracted to Jonah, but conflicted out of loyalty for Rydell. Ah, the tangled webs Adair weaves…

I don’t do spoilers, so I’ll just say that the plot weaving these two together through attraction, adventure, danger and more is one whale of a ride. It’s more than entertaining, it’s enthralling. This story and series is a keeper!

Reviewed by Georgianna

Copy supplied for review

________________

HurricaneHURRICANE
Cutter Cay #5
by Cherry Adair
Genre: adult, contemporary, romantic, action

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 4, 2017

Rydell Case’s ship is his home, his heart, and his reason for being. After his ex-wife left him—taking his brand-new megayacht, Tesoro Mio with her—she sailed off with a royal billionaire and out of his life forever. Now Ry spends his days searching for treasure—until his ship is hijacked. With the prospect of his salvage business tanking, he needs both the ship and his ex back—if only she didn’t despise him more than any man on earth. . .

When Addison D’Marco boards Tesoro Mio to find her ex-husband in her cabin, she’s furious. Ry is more handsome, more annoying, and more determined than ever. Addy can’t believe he has the nerve to demand the ship back after the way he broke her heart. With her fiancé about to board, she doesn’t want Ry back in her life to ignite painful memories and never- forgotten desires. But could it be that, amid troubled waters, Addy and Ry can salvage what they once had and have a second chance at love. . .or does fate have something else in store?

••••••••••••

REVIEW: Hurricane is the fifth novel in the Cutter Cay series. The fifth and probably final story in this marvelous series is truly top notch entertainment.

This is the incredible story of Rydell Case, his wife/ex-wife Addison (Addy). The plot in this is mind-boggling. To have so much happen to such wonderful people and yet they still can breathe and live…amazing, simply amazing.

I won’t do spoilers, this is a story you have to read and enjoy yourself. To say it has heartache is such an understatement. But there is more, there’s attraction and sizzling sex, adventure and treasure, crime and danger. There is so much happening that at first you don’t realize all the ramifications of how things got this bad.

Rydell is an amazing and determined man, and it certainly helps that he’s a man of honor. Addison, while more than a little naive, is a loving and wonderful woman who a terrible thing has happened to. That these two loved each other is obvious from the start. I found myself waiting breathlessly for the author to tell me the story behind it all. And what a story it is!

As with this whole series, the love story is but one part. The other parts are twists and mysteries, plots within plots. There is certainly the magical adventure of treasure, but beyond even that there is crime and betrayal almost unimaginable. Leave it to Cherry Adair to imagine the unimaginable.

Ms. Adair’s work is impeccable. Her plots are most excellent, the characters have flaws, but more than that they rise above any flaws to be truly heroic. The whole story line is believable and exciting.

I’d love to have a few days to curl up by myself and dive in with the characters, coming up only when absolutely necessary. My fondest dream would be to have another series as a spinoff to this one with some of the same characters, at least in cameo…oh well. I’m sure this author has many more planned.

Do yourself a favor and don’t pass on this series, it’s amazing!

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Georgianna

excerpt

 

The day didn’t look like second hand revenge. Instead of ominous dark clouds hanging low over apewter sea, the hot Greek sun reflected glittering sapphires off the Mediterranean. The wake of the

motor launch frothed blindingly white as it carried marine archaeologist Dr. Calista West to the

megayacht Stormchaser, anchored in open waters south of Crete.

Salt spray cooled her bare arms and legs as the Riva Iseo cut through the dark water. The

sleek, twenty- seven foot Italian work of art, with yards of glossy mahogany, soft leather, and sleek

lines, looked like something straight out of a James Bond movie. Expensive and ostentatious.

Draco Thanos, the short, wiry forty- something chief engineer of Stormchaser sent to collect Callie

from Heraklion, controlled the fast tender with all the deference of a guy handling a sleek sports car.

Callie wasn’t even sure what day it was anymore. A short flight in yet another ostentatious,

expensive toy, a private plane from Athens. A twelve- hour flight from Miami, an hour flight from

Athens to Crete, and another two hours by luxury tender. She was hardly at her best to deal with

Jonah Cutter. Tuning out Thanos, who’d kept up a steady conversation in broken English for the

duration, she spread her feet, bracing her hands on the rail as they hit some chop. Her stomach did

a somersault that had nothing to do with the waves. The closer the motor launch carried her to

Stormchaser, the harder Callie’s heart pounded.

Anticipation. Fear. Excitement.

Thanos pointed unnecessarily. The massive ship was freaking impossible to miss. “There

she is.” Callie’s fingers tightened on the rail as the ship loomed large against a sparkling backdrop of

calm azure water and robin’s- egg- blue sky. Brilliant sun bounced off acres of white paint and

gleaming brass. Twenty, thirty mil? Callie guesstimated, put off by the unnecessary fl aunting of the

Cutters’ wealth.

“Spectacular, isn’t she?” Thanos said proudly as he slowed the tender, angling it sideways to

dock aft next to the wide dive platform where a guy sat reading. He got to his feet as they

approached, lifting a hand in greeting. Callie waved back.

She used both hands to tuck any loose hair back into the neatly tucked French braid on the

back of her head, even though she knew there were none. She was too controlled to have flyaway

hair. Her penchants for order and organization were perfect for her chosen career. She’d come by

them the hard way. By now the traits were ingrained and comfortable.

Without the fi ne cooling misted spray of the water, and wind generated by the fast

movement over the sea, the sun beat down unrelentingly, drying her damp clothes in minutes.

“She’s something, all right.” Too big, and far too fancy for a dive boat, but wasn’t that the Cutters all

over? A family of modern- day treasure hunters, they flaunted their wealth like robber barons or

nouveau riche Internet millionaires, with total disregard for anyone daring their ownership of the

seas.

For a moment Callie had a niggle of misgiving for what she was about to do. Jonah Cutter

hadn’t done anything to her personally; she’d never even met the man. Never met any of the

Cutters. But they adversely impacted people she loved.

She was uniquely qualified to balance the scales.

Straightening her shoulders, Callie grabbed her duffel before Thanos could reach for it.

Ingrained and as sure as her dark hair and green eyes was her in de pendence. Drawing in a salt-

laden deep breath, Callie let it out slowly as the tender bumped the edge of the wide dive platform

where the older man, dressed in cargo shorts and a yellow polo shirt, waited to grab the rope.

And the game begins, she thought, braced to disembark, her fingers tightened on the bag’s handles.

Lying was against everything she believed in. Been there, spent a lifetime perfecting the skill.

Just because she was good at it didn’t mean she liked doing it. But not only did she have to lie

through her teeth for the duration, she had to be convincing as well.

She reminded herself that these people were not her friends. She could not soften and bond with

them. Growing to like anyone on board Stormchaser would make what she was going to do harder.

She’d known going in that she’d have to keep to herself as much as possible. She was here to do a

job. Making friends would muddy the waters and certainly complicate things. And, she admitted,

make her second guess herself— which she unfortunately usually did. She tended to overanalyze

things before jumping in. Indecision was, she knew, her worst characteristic. Still, once she’d made a

determination, after weighing it from a hundred different angles, she tended to be like a dog with a

bone defending the decision.

Her friends tried to get her to be more spontaneous. But it was hard for her. Every decision

had consequences, and those had to be weighed and calculated and looked at from every angle.

What wouldn’t be hard? Pretending. That she was damn good at. If anyone knew how to

pretend, it was her. She’d done it from kindergarten on. When she’d learned to lie for her parents.

Why they’d forgotten to sign her up for school programs? Why they weren’t there to pick her up after

school? Why she rarely had a lunch packed, or money to buy lunch? She’d known instinctively that

to say her mama was passed out from Jack Daniel’s would be bad, and mentioning that sometimes

her dad didn’t come home would be worse.

These circumstances weren’t the same, but she figured she’d honed her acting chops. She

could do this by mentally tarring everyone on board with the sins of the Cutters. Which were too

numerous to count.

And by keeping as low a profile as possible.

The gray- haired man held out his hand, helping her from the boat to the diving platform.

“Saul Pinter.” His full, mostly gray beard was neatly trimmed. Fit and athletic, he had a nice smile

and firm handshake. “Welcome aboard, Dr. West.”

“Thanks, call me Callie.” A cursory glance revealed the dive platform geared with the usual

dive equipment and a row of wet suits ready and waiting. At least she’d get to do what she loved.

Dive. Discover. “Is Mr. Cutter diving?”

Saul shook his head, jerking his thumb toward the ladder leading to the deck above where they

stood. “Jonah will have seen you, and be on his way down. Heads up, he’ll meet you halfway.”

Oh, Callie doubted that very much, but she merely smiled as her heart thumped.

Anticipation—no, dread? After all the planning, things were finally happening. “I’m looking forward to

seeing our wreck.”

“You haven’t missed anything. We only arrived late last night ourselves,” Saul told her,

returning to his chair and the book he’d been reading. “We’re all eager to get started.”

Was that a jibe because she hadn’t joined them two weeks ago? Callie mentally shrugged.

Climbing the ladder, she observed in a quick sweep the spotless decks, the gleaming bright work

and shiny brass. Stormchaser was spit- polished. She’d heard Zane Cutter’s ship was a piece of

crap, but so far she couldn’t fault his half-brother on the maintenance of his ship.

Several men, in the whites of crew members, leaned on the rail on an upper deck watching

her curiously. Callie lifted a hand in greeting and kept going. It was a perfect afternoon to dive, the

ocean smooth with just a slight chop. A light breeze loosened strands of hair off her face and neck

and brought with it the faint smells of fresh paint and yeasty baking bread.

Water slapped the hull, and the sound of voices died as the men dis appeared from view. A

gull cried as it wheeled in a perfect circle overhead, then dived like a jet, skimming the water after

some hapless fish.

There wasn’t anyone else around, and she walked toward a set of sliding doors just as a

man stepped out onto the deck ahead of her. His face lit up as he came toward her.

Jonah Cutter. Callie stopped to wait for him, the sun hot on her scalp, the glare off the water bright

despite her dark glasses. The opinion formed before the man even opened his mouth. Her

assessment was quick and unflattering. But then she was predisposed to disliking him.

Cocky. Self- assured. Entitled.

Exactly what she expected. Her shoulders relaxed. Handing Cutter his ass wasn’t going to

be difficult at all.

The Matthew McConaughey look- alike wore blue, flower- printed Hawaiian board shorts, a

too- tight red T-shirt stretched over sculpted muscles as if it had been painted on. She’d heard that

youngest brother Zane was the vain one, but clearly his half-brother gave him a run for his money.

Under six feet tall, sun- bleached shoulder- length hair, movie- star good looks, and boy,

didn’t he know it. Cutter was like a peacock spreading his tail as he removed his shades to eye her

up and down.

Shorter, less attractive, and more smarmy than she’d been led to believe. And she’d been

led to believe the worst.

Maintaining a friendly smile, she extended her hand when he got close enough. He was

about the same height, so they were eye- to- lecherous- eye. “I’m Calista West, thanks for

including—”

“Now, aren’t you just the prettiest addition to the team, darlin’?” he cut in with a southern

drawl and a heated look from unremarkable blue eyes. His lingering handshake was the opposite of

firm. Callie disengaged and resisted wiping her hand on her shorts as he looked at her like a dog

staring at a juicy bone. Raking his fingers through his sunbleached brown hair, the better to show off

his physique, he gave her a wide, white smile. “Welcome aboard.”

Never had two words sounded so suggestive. Smoothing a hand over her tightly constrained

hair, Callie made sure the sun glinted off the plain gold band on her left hand. Although she

suspected a guy like this wouldn’t be deterred by a wedding ring, she had other methods to repulse

if the ring didn’t work.

Copyright © 2017 by Cherry Adair and reprinted by permission of St. Martin’s Paperbacks.

 

About The Author

Cherry Adair

Cherry Adair has garnered numerous awards for her innovative action-adventure novels, which include White Heat, Hot Ice, On Thin Ice, Out of Sight, In Too Deep, Hide and Seek, and Kiss and Tell, as well as her thrilling Cutter Cay series for St. Martin’s Press. A favorite of reviewers and fans alike, she lives in the Pacific Northwest.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter

Giveaway

Cherry’s publisher is graciously offering a paper/print copy of STORMCHASER to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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

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

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

3. Please follow Cherry Adair on FACEBOOK.

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

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9. Giveaway runs from March 4-8, 2017

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Mastering Her Senses (Blasphemy #2) by Laura Kaye-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

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Mastering Her Senses (Blasphemy #2) by Laura Kaye-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

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MASTERING HER SENSES
Blasphemy #2
by Laura Kaye
Release Date: February 21, 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary, BDSM, erotic, romance

Mastering Her Senses

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MASTERING HER SENSES (Blasphemy #2) by Laura Kaye

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 21, 2017

He wants to dominate her senses—and her heart…

Quinton Ross has always been a thrill-seeker—so it’s no surprise that he’s drawn to extremes in the bedroom and at his BDSM club, Blasphemy, where he creates sense-depriving scenarios that blow submissives’ minds. Now if he could just find one who needs the rush as much as him…

Cassia Locke hasn’t played at Blasphemy since a caving accident left her with a paralyzing fear of the dark. Ready to fight, she knows just who to ask for help—the hard-bodied, funny-as-hell Dom she’d always crushed on—and once stood up.

Quinton is shocked and a little leery to see Cassia, but he can’t pass up the chance to dominate the alluring little sub this time. Introducing her to sensory deprivation becomes his new favorite obsession, and watching her fight fear is its own thrill. But when doubt threatens to send her running again, Quinton must find a way to master her senses—and her heart.

•••••••••••

REVIEW: MASTERING HER SENSES is the second full length installment in Laura Kaye’s contemporary, adult BLASPHEMY erotic, BDSM, romance series focusing on the exclusive BDSM club Blasphemy. This is Blasphemy co-owner and Master Quinton Ross, and geologist Cassia Locke’s story line. MASTERING HER SENSES can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. There is a slight cross over with Laura’s Raven Riders MC series. Cassia is the sister to Raven Rider’s member Jackson ‘Jagger’ Locke.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Cassia and Quinton) MASTERING HER SENSES follows the building relationship between Blasphemy co-owner and Master Quinton Ross, and geologist/submissive Cassia Locke. Years earlier, geologist Cassia Locke had been a submissive at Club Blasphemy but a work-place accident left our heroine with a panic disorder leaving her afraid of the dark. Upon her return to Blasphemy Cassia will encounter her former Master Quinton Ross who offers our heroine a ‘no-strings attached’ relationship to help her overcome her fear of the dark. A specialist in ‘sensory depravation’ kink Quinton will gain Cassia’s trust enabling her to slowly overcome the dark and frightening memories of the past. What ensues is the rekindling relationship and building romance between Cassia and Quinton, and Quinton’s realization that he wants more from Cassia than a Dom/sub relationship.

The world building focuses on the BDSM lifestyle: the Dom/sub relationships, the backrooms, the rules, the regulations and the people who like to play the scenes. There is very little story line conflict between our leading couple but for a case of mistaken belief that forces Cassia to second guess her relationship with Quinton Ross. The $ex scenes are erotic and intense but I do have an issue with authors who use a particular word in their erotic, romance story lines-in my opinion it is unnecessary and cheapens the overall feel of the story.

Kenna Sloane and Master Griffin Hudson (Bound to Submit #1) play secondary and supporting roles, as well as the introduction of Cassia’s brother Raven Rider MC member Jackson ‘Jagger’ Locke, and Master Wolf Henrikson whose story will be told next in the 1001 Dark Nights novella Eyes on You (July 2017).

MASTERING HER SENSES is a quick read; an erotic tale; a romantic story about one woman’s struggle to move on from the past, and one man’s belief in the woman with whom he is falling in love. The premise is emotional and dramatic; the romance is seductive and compelling; the characters are colorful, intelligent and spirited. MASTERING HER SENSES is a great addition to Laura Kaye’s BLASPHEMY series.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Hard to Serve
Bound To Submit
Mastering Her Senses

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

About the author

Laura Kaye NewAbout Laura Kaye:

Laura is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of thirty books in contemporary and erotic romance and romantic suspense, including the Blasphemy, Hard Ink, and Raven Riders series. Growing up, Laura’s large extended family believed in the supernatural, and family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses cemented in Laura a life-long fascination with storytelling and all things paranormal. Laura also writes historical fiction as the NYT bestselling author, Laura Kamoie. She lives in Maryland with her husband and two daughters, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

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Secret Stalker by Lena Diaz – a Review

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Secret Stalker by Lena Diaz – a Review

 

Secret STalkerAmazon / B&N / Kobo / BAM / Book Depository

Description:
A SWAT officer must protect the woman who broke his heart 

Years ago, detective and part-time SWAT officer Max Remington proposed to the woman he loved. Her response? To flee town—and Max’s life—under a cloud of suspicion. Folks said Bexley Kane killed the man “allegedly” stalking her and got away with murder. Now Bex is back in Destiny, Tennessee, but their tense reunion is cut short when bullets start flying, and this time, they’re aimed at her. As Max fights to keep Bex safe, he’s also fighting to protect his heart. Can they unravel the secrets of the past in time to save each other? Or will Bex’s final secret destroy them both?

 

Review:

How many times have we attempted to do the right thing only to still cause heartache or grief, regardless of the best intentions? Too many to count – me, too. But when love is on the line, doesn’t it behoove you to listen to your heart, since it’s the one in need of healing? Max and Bex are flung into a hostile situation, which they handle admirably, but their 10 year separation reopens gaping wounds and wreaks havoc anew.

Bex was supposed to go unnoticed in Destiny, settle her mom’s estate and escape unscathed, but small towns have the uncanny ability of drawing attention to one of their own. Max, detective and SWAT member, is just as crazed by Bex’s unexpected presence, but two attempted threats on her life demands his professionalism (and is more dangerous to her health) than facing their failed past. Secret Stalker is book 2 in Lena Diaz‘s Tennessee SWAT series. Max was the stud in the background of book 1 (Mountain Witness available here), so jumping into his story has been deliciously anticipated.

“It was as if the universe was against her, throwing obstacles in her path to keep her from leaving.”

As if threats upon her life aren’t escalating, the death of a high school classmate haunts Bex (and the town). Destiny is small-town charming, but it has a long, unforgiving memory and Bex being back home stirs up several troubling emotions in lots of complicated people.

Bex is being harassed and Max, as a detective, is following the case closely. Closer because of his prior relationship with Bex. While the investigation unfolded, obstruction of justice nagged at me. To quote the book’s synopsis, Bex flees town “under a cloud of suspicion”. It seems unlikely that a key figure would disappear without serious repercussions. Well, attempts on Bex’s life certainly qualify, don’t they? It’s collusion at worst then. Max is brave and aware of the larger legal picture; aware that connecting the dots is the only way to secure Bex’s complete exoneration. His heart and feelings for Bex blur the lines of job execution.

Second chance romance is one of my favorite tropes, the heartfelt pleading, even the thrill of the head-turning chase, but Max and Bex didn’t sizzle from the onset. Oh, their bodies reacted out of proximity and space (working together doesn’t diminish attraction), but this low simmer allowed Ms. Diaz to fully flesh out her characters and develop plotlines, so who’s really complaining? The steam gradually ensued and it was a perfect union.

The pacing of the story was a bit unusual this time around. Learning the details of Bex’s “silent stalker” so late into the story felt like the build-up of animosity came too late? I wanted to rail against this guy from the beginning! Alas, interesting twists enhanced the resolution. I was banking on one suspect, but Ms. Diaz veered and spun my theory into another. Really enjoyed the action-laden finale!

Lena Diaz continues to expand on her wonderful Tennessee SWAT series with Secret Stalker. Do not miss this or her next!

Review by Carmen

Copy supplied for review

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Someone to Love by Donna Alward – a Review

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Someone to Love by Donna Alward – a Review

 

Alward Something to LoveAmazon / B&N / Kobo / BAM / Book Depository

Description:
Ethan Gallagher is a firefighter in Darling, Vermont, who followed tradition and pledged his love on the Kissing Bridge to ensure lifelong happiness. A few years later, he s a widower with two rambunctious boys who no longer believes in magic. But even he has to admit that free-spirited Willow Dunaway fills him with wonder and an attraction he cannot deny.

Willow s come back to Darling a different girl than the one who left after high school. Overcoming her past and owning her own business has made her into a strong, independent woman. Single dad Ethan appeals to her in a way she didn t expect, even though settling down is the last thing on her mind. But after fire destroys the local food bank, the town rallies, and a fling between Ethan and Willow leads to unintended consequences. Can they find a way out of their heartbreak to make a home in each other s hearts?

 

 

Review:

Someone to Love by Donna Alward is the 2nd book in her Darling, VT series.   Willow Dunaway is our heroine, and we had met her in the first book of this series.  Willow, who runs a successful bakery café that leans on the healthy organic side, is also very likeable, independent, a hard worker and very different than your local business woman.  She has a blue or purple streak in her hair, and has a nose ring. 

Ethan Gallagher, our hero, is a widower, who lost his wife a few years ago.  He has two wonderfully adorable sons, but he remains cold and embittered by the loss of his beloved wife.  Ethan relies on his big family to help him, when he is off to work on his fire fighter duties; but when he is home, his whole life are his sons.  Ethan had met Willow at Laurel and Aiden’s wedding, as she is Laurel’s best friend.  But when he runs into her with his sons by her café, Ethan is unfriendly and rude, even if his sons take a liking to Willow.  Early on, though I understood his pain, I really didn’t like Ethan too much.  That did change as the story progressed, though he did continue to act like a jerk at times, which would have turned me off of him.  Poor Willow had her own issues to get past from her teenage years.  Despite this, she was so great with the boys, and that was a lot of fun.

What follows is a slow build romance between two unlikely people.  Both Ethan and Willow have to face the pain of their past, in order to trust their hearts to each other.  Ethan is afraid to get hurt again, but his wonderful family pushes him to move on.  Willow has told no one about her past, but she also has her best friend Laurel and Ethan’s sister to help her.  The key is for both them to open up to each and once they do, their love will bloom in a beautiful heartwarming romance.  But there are a few obstacles that will come up that can break up their relationship.   Will Ethan and Willow be able open up and help  each other to get past their issues?

The best part of this sweet story, are Ethan’s sons Connor and Ronan.  I loved them both and loved how Willow was with them.  I really loved Willow throughout the whole book.  Ethan took some time, but did get better closer to the end.  I love the Gallagher family, too, and look forward to more stories from the rest of the siblings.   If you love small town romances, family, friendship and adorable children, I suggest you read this series.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

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