Monthly Archives: June 2017

Revenge (Lawless #3) by Lexi Blake-Review & Giveaway

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REVENGE (Lawless #3) by Lexi Blake-Review and Giveaway

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REVENGE
Lawless #3
by Lexi Blake
Release Date: June 20, 2017
Genre: adult,contemporary, romantic, suspense

Revenge

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 20, 2017

Passion and danger collide in the latest contemporary romance featuring the Lawless siblings—from New York Times bestselling author Lexi Blake.

When Drew Lawless discovers a fatal flaw in his plan to avenge his parents’ deaths, he turns to the one woman he’d promised he wouldn’t touch. He offers her a deal, one that will bring her into his investigation, his life, and his bed.

Investigative reporter Shelby Gates never dreamed how twisted the case would become—or how fascinated she would be with Drew. Every day they spend together binds them. And every night brings her closer to realizing he might be the man for her.

As Drew’s feelings for Shelby grow, so does the danger. From the streets of Dallas to Austin’s high-tech business world, Drew and Shelby play a game begun twenty years before—a game they will win, or die trying.

••••••••••

REVIEW: REVENGE is the third and( final ?) instalment in Lexi Blake’s contemporary, adult LAWLESS romance suspense series focusing on the Lawless siblings-Riley, Drew, Brandon and Mia. This is eldest sibling/ billionaire businessman and CEO of 4L holdings Drew Lawless, and journalist /investigative reporter Shelby Gates’s story line. REVENGE can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading the series in order for backstory and cohesion as each installment focuses on revenge and retribution for a twenty year old murder that is beginning to unravel as the truth is revealed. There is a bit of a cross over/spinoff with Blake’s Masters and Mercenaries series with the appearance and ongoing role for Mia Lawless and Navy SEAL Case Taggart (Dominance Never Dies), and the McKay –Taggart Security Service. Shelby Gates was first introduced in the previous story line as she begins a journalistic investigation into the Lawless murders.

SOME BACKGROUND: Twenty years earlier Benedict Lawless and his wife Iris were killed in a house fire intended to kill the entire family-a murder for hire where greed and power were the precipitating factors. The authorities ruled it a murder/suicide but the Lawless siblings are determined to clear their father’s name.

NOTE: SATISFACTION (book 2) ended on a cliffhanger where identities were revealed and the truth was beginning to unfold-a twist to the story line that will have epic repercussions for the entire Lawless clan.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Drew and Shelby) REVENGE continues to focus on revenge. As the eldest sibling, Drew Lawless has focused most of his adult life on proving his father’s innocence while hunting for the person(s) responsible for the destruction of not only his family but his trust in everything and everyone. When investigative journalist Shelby Gates uncovers more information than Drew ever thought possible, our hero makes Shelby an offer she couldn’t refuse-a pretend lovers scenario in which Shelby has complete access to the family’s history and legal documentation in return for a promise that will never come to fruition. What ensues is the building relationship between Shelby and Drew, and the struggle to come to terms with the revelation of the who, what and why and his parent’s murder.

Drew Lawless is a quiet, shy, introvert; a ruthless, master manipulator who is determined to uncover the truth-a truth that will all but destroy what remains of Drew’s faith in friendship, family and love. Secrets and lies will be revealed; heartbreak and betrayal will damage a life-long friendship; the truth will haunt the siblings the rest of their lives. Shelby Gates suspects there is more to the Lawless back story than what has been reported to the public and she is determined to research and expose the truth. Meeting Drew Lawless found our heroine caught between her head and her heart when the discovery of the truth could destroy what is left our hero’s heart.

The relationship between Drew and Shelby is one of immediate attraction but Drew needs to keep Shelby within reach as she slowly uncovers the facts and legitimacy of the Lawless murders. Threats are made; promises made never to be kept; the past comes back with a vengeance in the hopes of destroying what is left of the Lawless clan. The $ex scenes are intimate, intense and seductive but Drew has made no promise for the future, a future he is determined to go forward-alone.

All of the Lawless siblings play secondary and supporting roles, as well as Case Taggart (McKay-Taggart Security), and one of Benedict Lawless’s former partners Bill ‘Hatch’ Hatchard-a man who all but raised the Lawless siblings once he was able to determine their foster care history. I had previously suspected there is a story about Hatch, and his role in the entire family saga-a family he considered closer than blood-and my suspicions have come full circle when the truth is revealed. Again, there is another twist to the story, and perhaps, a final chapter that has yet to be fully addressed.

REVENGE is a story of heartbreak and betrayal; retribution and revenge; secrets, lies and uncovering the truth. The premise is suspenseful, intense and revealing; the characters are dynamic, energetic and broken; the romance is sexy but struggles in the face of reality and what the truth has revealed. REVENGE reads like the final instalment but there is another twist to the sibling family dynamics so we will have to wait and see. REVENGE is a complex story of one family’s struggle to uncover the truth, and the revelation that all was not as it seemed, in the past.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Ruthless
Satisfaction
Revenge

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

About the author

Lexi BlakeABOUT LEXI BLAKE:

NY Times and USA Today bestselling author Lexi Blake lives in North Texas with her husband, three kids, and the laziest rescue dog int eh world. She began writing at a young age, concentrating on plays and journalism. It wasn’t until she started writing romance and urban fantasy that she found the stories of her heart. She likes to find humor in the strangest places and believes in happy endings no matter how odd the couple, threesome, or foursome may seem.

FACEBOOK / TWITTER / WEBSITE / AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE

Giveaway

The Reading Cafe and Lexi Blake’s publisher are offering a finished copy of REVENGE 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. Follow Lexi Blake on Facebook.

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

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

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

7. Please follow The Reading Cafe on Tumblr

8. Giveaway is open to USA only

9. Giveaway runs from June 20-24 2017

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Talk British to Me (Wherever You Go #1) by Robin Bielman-Review & Book Tour

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TALK BRITISH TO ME (Wherever You Go #1) by Robin Bielman-Review and Book Tour

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TALK BRITISH TO ME
Wherever You Go #1
by Robin Bielman
Release Date: June 19, 2017
Genre: new adult, contemporary, romance

Talk British to Me

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon. uk / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / ibooks /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 19, 2017

As the Dating Guy on L.A.‘s top morning show, I give the single guy’s perspective on dating, love, and sex—and I give great advice. Everyone’s hooking up…well, except for me. Sure, I can get any woman I want, but I’ve got a “no relationship” clause in my contract and the only woman I want has “relationship” written all over her. Probably stamped on her ass, too. And wouldn’t I like to confirm that.

Unfortunately, she wants nothing to do with me. At all. Something about the next Ice Age might have even come up in her rebuttal. Adorable. Because she’s determined to ignore what one simple kiss proved: she wants me as badly as I want her.

Everything in me is screaming to go after her, but I’ve got a secret that I’m fairly certain will end up with her roasting my nuts over an open fire. So, job on the line? Check. Nuts on the line? Check. Can’t get her out of my head? Nail…meet coffin. But what a way to go…

••••••••••••

REVIEW: TALK BRITISH TO ME is the first installment in Robin Bielman’s contemporary, new adult WHEREVER YOU GO romance series This is radio host twenty three year old Mateo ‘Bennett’ Gallagher, and twenty two year old barista/PA Teague Watters’ story line.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Teague and Mateo) TALK BRITISH TO ME follow the forbidden relationship between barista/PA Teague Watters, and radio talk show host Mateo Gallagher. Mateo is the ‘Dating Guy’ and does a weekly radio show talking about his dating experiences but a stipulation in his contract states that he must remain single. Enter Teague Watters-the woman who has caught Mateo’s eye-and a woman who is off limits in more ways than one. What ensues is the building relationship between Teague and Mateo, as Teague battles to keep her job as the new PA to one of L.A.’s most prolific and notorious wedding planners; and Mateo struggles to keep his personal and professional life separate.

As part of the job Mateo is expected to serial date-a new flavor of the week every weekend, but our hero never expected to fall in love- a complication that could affect his job and his on air personality. Not only was Teague not one of Mateo’s weekly dates but our heroine never knew the professional side of the man with whom she was falling in love, and in this Mateo’s secret life begins to take its’ toll on our story line heroine. Teague Watters battles between her head and her heart knowing that to get involved with Mateo Gallagher would mean risking her job and reputation.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including
Teague’s extended family, her best friend Harper, Teague’s roommates Elliot and Levi. We are also introduced to several wedding and bridal clients –some of whom are very close to the Gallagher family. There is some definite history between Harper and Levi-history that has yet to be revealed or explored.

The world building focuses on the relationship between Teague and Mateo from friends to friends with benefits, to lovers and so much more; Teague’s struggle with her attraction to a man who has been declared off limits; and Mateo’s battle to keep secret the on-air personality of the Dating Guy. With the introduction of family and friends, there is plenty of opportunity to continue the Wherever You Go series.

TALK BRITISH TO ME is a sweet, sexy, and passionate story about two people with different plans for the future. The premise is entertaining with a little bit of humor, fun, drama and romance. The characters are intelligent, colorful, dynamic and charismatic; the romance is seductive; the $ex scenes are limited without the use of sexually graphic, over the top language and text. TALK BRITISH TO ME is a lighthearted, heartwarming and energetic tale that will captivate your heart with its’ delightful story.

Copy supplied for review by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Talk British To Me Teaser

About The Author Black and Red

Robin BielmanRobin Bielman

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

Places to find Robin Bielman:

Website /Facebook /Twitter /Goodreads/

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Savaged Dreams (Savaged Illusions #1) by Jennifer Lyon-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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SAVAGED DREAMS (Savaged Illusions Trilogy #1) by Jennifer Lyon-Review, Excerpt and Giveaway

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SAVAGED DREAMS
Savaged Illusions #1
by Jennifer Lyon
Release Date: June 19, 2017
Genre: new adult, contemporary, erotic, rock, romance

Savaged Dreams

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo /  iBooks / GooglePlay

Add to your Goodreads shelf

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 19, 2017

Going away to college gives LIZA GLASNER a chance to escape her painful and dangerous past…or so she thinks. At fourteen years old, she survived an attack by a famous musician. After that, the media, groupies and crazies hounded her with a merciless cruelty that ruined her life. But now she’s thriving—until an internship brings her face to face with the sizzling hot lead singer of a rock band, and she finds herself drawn to the very thing that once destroyed her. Justice is a temptation she can’t resist…and one that could get her killed.

Sexy rock star JUSTICE CADE is determined to take his band, Savaged Illusions, to the top by winning the Court of Rock T.V. show. Tortured by guilt for failing his family, he believes fame is his only path to redemption. But when the fiery college-intern hiding her beauty beneath baggy sweaters and a snarky attitude bursts into his life, Justice is forced to choose between the woman he loves and the stardom he craves. The wrong choice will cost him more than he can bear.

**This is book one in a trilogy and ends on a cliffhanger. However the next two books are being released in July and September so readers won’t be stranded on the cliff for long!

••••••••••

REVIEW: SAVAGED DREAMS is the first full length installment in Jennifer Lyon’s contemporary, new adult SAVAGED ILLUSIONS erotic, rock romance trilogy focusing on twenty four year old lead singer for the rock band Savaged Illusions Justice Cade, and twenty year old college student/publicist Liza Glasner. For fans of Jennifer’s THE PLUS ONE CHRONICLES there is a slight cross-over with the appearance of Sloane Michaels and Drake Vaughn. There is a prequel novella SAVAGED SURRENDER that introduces the characters and some of the background to the series.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Liza and Justice) SAVAGED DREAMS focuses on a battle of the bands- a reality show that will see one band’s meteoric rise to stardom. With four bands remaining, each band is assigned a publicist to help promote and primp the bands for their upcoming appearances. Enter Liza Glasner, college student and Savaged Illusions temporary publicist, and the woman who will call to Justice Cade’s heart. What ensues are the band’s preparations for the upcoming competition, Liza and Justice’s building romance, and Liza’s struggle to remain calm as her life slowly begins to unravel with the revelation of her past.

SAVAGED DREAMS follows the band as they battle not only for the coveted prize but a media campaign that exposes secrets and lies, heartbreak and pain, jealousy, rivalry, and sins of the past. Although the story line primarily focuses on Justice and Liza we are introduced to the members of the band: their history, their failings; their sins of the past. As the competition nears the end, old rivalries come to a head, threats are made, and the past comes back for revenge.

Jennifer Lyon’s SAVAGED DREAMS is an emotional, heartbreaking and wonderfully written story that will pull you in and never let go. There are moments of jealousy and rage, romance and love, drama, tragedy and destructive words. The premise is imaginative, spirited and intelligent ; the characters are passionate, colorful and broken; the romance is seductive, provocative and intense. SAVGED DREAMS is an intoxicating and sensual story of romance, love and the toxic reality of jealousy and hate. The story ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned!

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Savaged Surrender (.5)
Savaged Dreams
Savaged Vows -July 2017
Savaged Devotion-August 2017

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Savaged Illusions

excerpt

“That’s utter bullshit. You don’t hide your feelings with me.”

“Is that right?” She stroked her hand over the head of his cock.

He moved back from her touch, the spray of hot water cascading off his shoulders. Damn near helpless to stop himself, he lowered his hungry gaze over her soft belly to the hair slicked down between her legs. Jesus. Fiery lust rammed into him, taking his cock from hard to one massive throb. He should reach behind him and twist the water to cold, but he couldn’t harness enough brainpower to actually do it.

“You told me you found your voice here in San Diego. Use it. You want something from me?” He wasn’t going to unleash his needs on her until he was sure it was exactly what she wanted too.

Naked anger sparked in her eyes. “I didn’t like the way I felt. It was our date, and those girls were touching you. I wanted to push them off you and kiss you right there in front of everyone.

Maybe I’d shove my camera in their hand and demand they take a picture, then I’d post it and show the whole world that you’re mine. How’s that, Justice? That enough feelings for you?” She closed her eyes. “I know how stupid that sounds. I want you to win and—”

“Don’t you dare backtrack now.” He stalked her to the shower wall. “Those are your feelings. I want them. Every damned one.”

Her stare roamed down his body, then snapped back to his face. A current arced between them.

He didn’t touch her, yet the connection shivered on the moist air. Need screamed between them.

Her nipples hardened, and she raised one hand toward him.

He saw it again, that fucker’s hand wrapped around her arm and Beth kicking the shit out of his shin.

“You want me to kiss you? My hands on you?” He slapped a hand on the fiberglass over her head. “The only reason I’m not kissing you in public and making it clear you belong to me is that you want to keep our personal life out of the limelight.” He didn’t like it either, but he understood.

“We’re not in public now.”

About the author

Jennifer LyonJennifer Lyon is the pseudonym for USA Today Bestselling Author Jennifer Apodaca. Jen lives in Southern California where she continually plots ways to convince her husband that they should get a dog. After all, they met at the dog pound, fell in love, married and had three wonderful sons. So far, however, she has failed in her doggy endeavor. She consoles herself by pouring her passion into writing books. To date, Jen has published more than fifteen books and novellas, including a fun and sexy mystery series and a variety of contemporary romances under the name Jennifer Apodaca. As Jennifer Lyon she created a dark, sizzling paranormal series, and The Plus One Chronicles, an emotionally sensual adult contemporary series. Jen’s won numerous awards and had her books translated into multiple languages, but she still hasn’t come up with a way to persuade her husband that they need a dog.

Find Jennifer Online!

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest

 

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NOTE: The Reading Cafe is NOT responsible for the rafflecopter giveaway. If you have any questions, please contact the author.

Jennifer is giving away a $50 Amazon Gift Card to celebrate the release of Savaged Dreams. Enter below!

Be sure to follow the tour, too! Find interviews, reviews and spotlights HERE

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Lip Action (Kiss Talent Agency #1) by Virna DePaul-a review

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LIP ACTION (Kiss Talent Agency #1) by Virna DePaul-a review

Lip Action

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 23, 2017

Marissa

Appearance is everything to my upper-crust mother, but when she insists I take back my pedigreed-but-cheating ex? I’d rather stab myself with a salad fork. So I blurt out I’m dating someone new. Someone like…that smoking-hot, vaguely familiar guy across the restaurant, who could be the next James Bond.

Turns out he’s the star of my favorite, cheesy, sci-fi soap opera. (Don’t judge me.) One minute I’m fantasizing about Borg and his green-hued abs. The next, Simon Dale is making me an offer my sex-starved body can’t refuse.

Simon

I’m up for a breakout movie role that’ll launch me off the B-list, but I don’t need a script to read the scene between Marissa and her mum. Even though I’m a London gutter rat who never rubbed elbows with a Royal, I easily slip into the role of Marissa’s doting boyfriend. Why? I need a favor in return— a steady girlfriend, just long enough to convince the producers I’ve changed my wild ways.

Trouble is, I’m going all Method on this relationship—and close to losing the one thing that could break me. My heart.

••••••••••

REVIEW: LIP ACTION is the first installment in Virna DePaul’s contemporary, adult KISS TALENT AGENCY erotic, romance series. This is British b-list actor Simon Richards-Dale, and heiress / marketing specialist Marissa Woodcrest’s story line.

Told from dual first person points of view (Marissa and Simon) LIP ACTION focuses on the fake boyfriend/girlfriend relationship between British b-list actor Simon Dale, and marketing specialist Marissa Woodcrest. Simon’s reputation in Hollywood as a manwhore keeps our hero on the b-list of celebrities and in the news. Hoping to land a lucrative role in an upcoming Hollywood blockbuster movie, our hero is in desperate need of a committed girlfriend to impress the people behind the scenes. Enter heiress, and marketing specialist Marissa Woodcrest, whose own personal life has fallen onto hard times with the discovery that her fiancé had been having an affair with his office secretary. Pressure from her mother to rekindle with her former flame, finds our heroine secretly agreeing to become Simon’s girlfriend to keep her mother off of her back. What ensues is the building relationship between Simon and Marissa, and the fall out when the truth is revealed.

Marissa Woodcrest is the daughter and heiress of well- to –do businessman Raul Woodcrest but Marissa’s earlier years were fraught with questionable behavior and run-ins with the law. Hoping to keep up appearances, Marissa’s recent engagement was everything her mother had ever wanted but not so our story line heroine. Simon Dale (Richards) grew up the son of a drunk, and a drug addict but needed an image change when the studios came calling. His reputation as a manwhore did not appeal to the bigwigs in charge, and a steady girlfriend is just what was needed and Marissa was ripe for the picking. The $ex scenes are intimate and intense. Simon likes to talk dirty in the bedroom, against the wall, on the beach……

There are a large number of secondary and supporting characters including Marissa’s ex Charles, and Simon’s ex Janelle, Marissa’s parents Raul and June, as well as her brother Kenny and sister Larissa; Simon’s sister Dana, his friend and agent Declan Kiss; and Hollywood producers Arnold and Edward Spires.

The world building follows the lies and secrets that begin to spiral out of control. As Simon desperately battles for his upcoming role, Marissa comes to the realization that she has fallen in love with a man who isn’t looking for a permanent relationship.

LIP ACTION is sexy and spicy read with a little bit of humor, heartbreak, and a happily ever after. The premise is entertaining; the characters are colorful; the romance is seductive. The story line needs another round of editing due to some spelling and grammar issues, as well as a mix up in names e.g. Woodcrest vs Woodward-hopefully the errors were corrected before the final release.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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The Pleasures of Passion (Sinful Suitors #4) by Sabrina Jeffries-Review and Giveaway

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THE PLEASURES OF PASSION (Sinful Suitors #4) by Sabrina Jeffries-Review and Giveaway

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THE PLEASURES OF PASSION
Sinful Suitors #4
by Sabrina Jeffries
Genre: adult, historical, romance
Release Date: June 20,2017

The Pleasures of Passion

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 20, 2017

When Niall Lindsey, the Earl of Margrave, is forced to flee after killing a man in a duel, he expects his secret love, Brilliana Trevor, to go with him, or at the very least wait for him. To his shock, she does neither and sends him off with no promise for the future. Seven years and one pardon later, Niall returns to England disillusioned and cynical. And being blackmailed by the government into working with his former love to help catch a counterfeiter connected to her father doesn’t improve his mood any. But as his role as Brilliana’s fake fiancé brings his long-buried feelings to the surface once again, he wonders who is more dangerous—the counterfeiter or the woman rapidly stealing his heart.

Forced to marry another man after Niall was exiled, the now widowed Brilliana wants nothing to do with the reckless rogue who she believes abandoned her to a dreary, loveless life. So having to rely on him to save her father is the last thing she wants, much less trusts him with….But as their scheme strips away the lies and secrets of their shared past, can she let go of the old hurt and put her pride aside? Or will the pleasures of their renewed passion finally enable them both to rediscover love?

••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE PLEASURES OF PASSION is the fourth installment in Sabrina Jeffries’ adult SINFUL SUITORS historical romance series- a spin off from Jeffries’ ‘The Duke’s Men’ series. This is Niall Lindsey, the Earl of Margrave, and Brilliana ‘Bree’ Trevor’s story line. THE PLEASURES OF PASSION can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Niall Lindsey is the brother of Clarissa Lindsey (The Study of Seduction #2) and cousin to Warren Corry (The Danger of Desire #3).

Told from dual third person perspectives (Niall and Brilliana) THE PLEASURES OF PASSION is a second chance/fake fiancé story line that follows several paths beginning seven years earlier when a then twenty three year old Niall Lindsey finds himself on the run after killing a man in a duel to the death. His then seventeen year old ‘secret’ girlfriend Brilliana ‘Bree’ Trevor refuses to go, and seven years will pass before the two meet again. Fast forward to present day wherein Niall is being blackmailed by a government official to uncover the truth about an influx of counterfeit money, and Brilliana is forced to go along for the ride. What ensues is the rekindling romance between Niall and Brilliana as they hunt for the people responsible while pretending to love one another for the sake of the investigation.

Brilliana and Niall were once in love but Niall’s quick exit out of the country found Brilliana lost when her father’s past came looking for revenge. Forced to marry someone she didn’t love, our heroine did what she had to do to protect her mother from certain harm. Niall’s exile to Spain came with a price-spy for the Crown that continued upon his return to home. Rekindling his relationship with Bree is a hard-fought battle as they both keep secret sins of the past. The distinct lack of communication, bitter memories, misinformation and presumptions, and broken promises does much to destroy their previous feelings for one another challenging the reader in more ways than one. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive without the use of sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Edwin and Clarissa (book 2), Warren and Delia (book 3), Niall’s mother Lady Margrave , Lord Fulkham, Bree’s Aunt Agatha, her father Sir Oswald Payne, and his brother Toby . There is also an assortment of ladies and gentlemen, housekeepers and butlers etc. that come in and out of the story line.

The world building follows the hunt for a counterfeiter; someone who is discretely using family without their knowledge. The second chance romance struggles with a palpable sexual attraction that is unable to come to terms with secrets and lies from the past.

THE PLEASURES OF PASSION is an energetic story line about two people who are given a second chance at love. The premise is engaging and moving; the characters are passionate and determined; the romance is energetic and fated. THE PLEASURES OF PASSION is a pleasing and worthwhile addition to Sabrina Jeffries’ SINFUL SUITORS historical romance series.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
The Art of Sinning
The Heiress and the Hothead
The Study of Seduction
The Danger of Desire
The Pleasures of Passion

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Giveaway

The Reading Cafe and Sabrina Jeffires’ publisher are offering a finished copy of THE PLEASURES OF PASSION 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. Follow Sabrina Jeffries on Facebook.

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

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

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8. Giveaway is open to USA only

9. Giveaway runs from June 18-22 2017

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The Misfortune of Lady Lucianna by Christina McKnight-Review, Book tour & Giveaway

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The Misfortune of Lady Lucianna by Christina McKnight-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

The Misfortune of Lady Luciana Banner

THE MISFORTUNE OF LADY LUCIANA
The Undaunted Debutantes #2
by Christina McKnight
Release Date: June 13, 2017
Genre: adult, historical, romance

The Misfortune of Lady Luciana

 Amazon | Amazon. ca | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iBooks

Quick-witted hellion Lucianna Constantine has no doubt who was responsible for the death of her dear friend. And she will stop at nothing to expose his transgressions—and those of every despicable man in London. Lucianna has witnessed the cruelty of London’s beau monde her entire life…starting with her own father. So she is more than willing to singlehandedly take down every vile man that crosses her path.

Roderick Crofton, the Duke of Montrose, had his entire family fortune stolen when his father trusted the wrong men. After a scandalous article surfaces in the London Daily Gazette, written by the notorious Mayfair Confidential columnist, Roderick finds himself financially destitute, without a betrothed, and lacking the means to find the lords responsible for duping his sire. With little option left, Roderick has only one choice: find another wealthy heiress to wed. His quest brings him to Lady Lucianna Constantine, and soon, he can’t deny that he wants her for more than just her dowry.

However, Luci has secrets that could change everything. And when Roderick uncovers what those confidences entail, it could mean misfortune for all involved.

•••••••••••

REVIEW:

4.5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

The Misfortune of Lady Lucianna by Christina McKnight is the second book of her “The Undaunted Debutantes” series. If you recall. I had reviewed the first book just a couple of weeks ago. I would recommend you absolutely read the first book before you dive into this one as they are both related and revolve around the same crime.

Picking right up where the first book left us, Lady Lucianna is one of the four girls who had formed a lifelong friendship. When one of the girls is found dead on her wedding night the other three girls go into detective mode to make sure justice is served. Lucianna is the spitfire of the group and I was really looking forward to reading her story. She believes what she believes and no one can make her change her mind. While attempting to solve this mystery, Lucianna is also a contributor to a scandalous column that calls out rakes and rogues and unmasks their intentions and usually spoiling their plans to get away with anything. Lucianna has a hunger for exposing rakes due to a deep grudge of her upbringing and her rogue father. She is most definitely the kind to attack first ask questions later. This time however, she may have gone too far,

Roderick Crofton is a Duke and is also the latest victim of Lucianna scandal column. Any other time he could of been called out for being a rogue, but this time he was not at fault. This scandal had now cost his family their fortune and any chance he had to wrong the rights are taken when the funds are dried up. Now he must find a well betrothed wife so he can settle his score.

Both Roderick and Lucianna cross paths, and form a friendship of sorts (a strange way of happening, but so be it). Lucianna father is set to marry her off to the very man who may have killed her friend, and Roderick knows Luci comes with a plump dowry .. well how perfect of a picture could this paint? Not so perfect when you consider the secrets that are held back. These secrets could very well be the undoing of their soon beloved relationship. So much more to this book, but I’m not ruining anything for you!

Another quick read from Christina McKnight. I read this in a afternoon and I do wish it was a little longer. I just found the story a little rushed as I did in the first book, which took away from some believability and character development. I enjoy getting to know the characters and being romanced through the forming of a relationship. This just moved a little too fast .. BUT .. she did write such a fantastic story with the same laughter, fierce female lead, side of mystery and romance that it made up for most of the negative.

Again, make sure you read the first book, it sets up this crime that this series is set around, and there is nothing like revisiting a couple or anticipating upcoming storylines. If you are looking for a wonderful shorter historical romance series to read on a lazy summer afternoon, I strongly recommend this one!

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Rachel T.

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about the author

Christina McKnightChristina McKnight is a book lover turned writer. From a young age, her mother encouraged her to tell her own stories. She’s been writing ever since.

Christina enjoys a quiet life in Northern California with her family, her wine, and lots of coffee. Oh, and her books…don’t forget her books! Most days she can be found writing, reading, or traveling the great state of California.

You can visit her online at the following places: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Amazon

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Blackmailing the Bad Girl (Cutting Loose #2) by Nina Croft- Review and Book Tour

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BLACKMAILING THE BAD GIRL (Cutting Loose #2) by Nina Croft-Review and Book Tour

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BLACKMAILING THE BAD GIRL
Cutting Loose #2
by Nina Croft
Release Date: June 12, 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary,erotic, romance

Blackmailing the Bad Girl

Amazon | Amazon AU | Amazon UK | Amazon Canada | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iBooks

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 12, 2017

Cynical CEO, Nik Masterton, believes he’s finally met a woman who isn’t interested in his money…until she vanishes with a hefty amount of it. He’s been searching for her ever since and has finally found her doing a stint in Holloway prison for stealing…from someone else. Clearly, he’s just one of many. Now she’s coming out, and it’s time for a little payback.

After two years in prison, Summer Delaney is determined she’s never going back. While she had good reasons for doing what she did, it’s time to move on to a new life and earn an honest living. Unfortunately, there’s a glitch in her plan, and he’s waiting at the gate as she comes out.

Nik isn’t above using blackmail to make Summer work for him until he decides just how he’ll get his revenge. But this time they’re both determined to keep their distance. Right until the inconvenient attraction explodes between them..

••••••••

REVIEW: BLACKMAILING THE BAD GIRL is the second installment in Nina Croft’s contemporary, adult CUTTING LOOSE erotic, romance series focusing on three friends-Summer, Regan and Darcy – three women who met in prison while serving sentences for crimes of passion. This is billionaire CEO Nik Masterton, and Summer Delaney’s story line. BLACKMAILING THE BAD GIRL 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 (Nik and Summer) BLACKMAILING THE BAD GIRL follows the building relationship between CEO Nik Masterton, and the woman who stole one million dollars from the company Nik controls. Enter Summer Delany, Nik’s former employee, and recent inmate at a correctional facility. What ensues are Nik’s attempts to blackmail the woman that stole more than his money, but the woman the stole his heart years before.

Summer Delaney had just been released on early parole when part of her past, a past she was hoping to forget, made her an offer she couldn’t refuse. Summer’s time served did not include time for the embezzled funds from one of Nik Masterton’s companies, and Nik was determined to make Summer pay for sin of the past. Nik had no idea what he was going to do but seeing Summer brought back old feelings, and in order to keep her close, our hero devised a scheme to keep the woman with whom he would fall in love, but in doing so inadvertently revealed more of her past.

The relationship between Summer and Nik is a second chance / enemies to friends / forbidden office romance wherein Nik forces Summer to work off her debt as his personal assistant but the heart wants more than a one-night stand, and Summer will fall for the man that could all but destroy her life. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic, and intense.

We are re-introduced to Summer’s former cell mates: Regan and Darcy, as well as Summer’s mother Elizabeth Delaney; Nik’s friend and business partner Harry Brent, and Nik’s parents David and Elena Masterton.

The world building focuses on the relationship between Nik and Summer, and Summer’s battle to stay one step ahead of her past.

BLACKMAILING THE BAD GIRL is a fast paced, engaging tale of second chances both in life and love. The premise is uplifting; the romance is passionate and sensual; the characters are charismatic and inspiring. BLACKMAILING THE BAD GIRL is a provocative and idealistic look at one woman’s chance at a happily ever after.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one- Falling for the Bad Girl

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

about the author

Nina CroftGrowing up in the cold, wet, north of England, Nina Croft spent a lot of time dreaming of faraway sunnier places and ponies. When she discovered both, along with a whole load of other things, could be found between the covers of a book, her life changed forever.

Later, she headed south, picked up the perfect husband along the way, and together they volunteered to work in Africa. There they discovered a love of exotic places and a dislike of 9-5 work. Afterward they spent a number of years travelling (whenever possible) intermingled with working (whenever necessary.) Eventually they stumbled upon a remote area in the mountains of southern Spain and the small almond farm they now call home.

Nina spends her days reading, writing and riding her mare, Gencianna, under the blue Spanish skies—sunshine and ponies. She reckons this is proof that dreams really can come true if you want them enough.

 

Connect with Nina:

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads | Newsletter

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The Highlander’s Viking Bride by Cathy MacRae-Review, Giveaway & Excerpt Tour

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THE HIGHLANDER’S VIKING BRIDE (Hardy Heroines #2) by Cathy MacRae-Review, Giveaway and Excerpt Tour

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THE HIGHLANDER’S VIKING BRIDE
Hardy Heroines #2
by Cathy MacRae
Release Date: May 22, 2017
Genre: adult, historical, Highlander, slightly paranormal, romance

The Highlander's Viking Bride

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Add to Goodreads: https://goo.gl/k5LpBx

About the book: Release Date May 22, 2017

Calder MacGerry, laird of an impoverished clan, has resolved to end the bitter feud between the MacGerrys and Sinclairs. He jumps at Laird Sinclair’s offer of marriage to his only daughter, Katja, to seal the agreement between their clans—only to get more than he bargained for.

Katja’s chance to escape her father’s harsh treatment appears to be too good to be true. But becoming Lady of a clan that despises her because she’s a Sinclair, doesn’t make her life any easier. When the attacks turn deadly, she fights her way out, making a dangerous passage to the Shetland Isles for refuge with her Viking family.

Calder and Katja’s marriage, built on mistrust, rushes quickly into disaster. As Calder seeks to repair the damage, Katja discovers not another enemy, but a husband who pledges a new beginning.

•••••••••••

REVIEW: THE HIGHLANDER’S VIKING BRIDE is the second installment in Cathy MacRae historical, slightly paranormal HARDY HEROINES romance series. This is Laird Calder MacGerry, and Katja Sinclair’s story line. THE HIGHLANDER’S VIKING BRIDE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Calder and Katja) THE HIGHLANDER’S VIKING BRIDE follows Laird Calder MacGerry as he must make peace and end the feud with Clan Sinclair upon the death of his father. Without food or supplies for the upcoming winter, the new Laird is desperate for find provisions for his suffering clan. When Earl Sinclair offers a truce, the truce comes with a caveat-a proviso of sorts-Calder MacGerry must marry the Earl’s only daughter, and in doing so would be granted the woman’s dowry and everything that comes with. Enter Katja Sinclair, the mysterious and only daughter of Earl Sinclair, and the woman with whom Calder will fall in love. What ensues is the tepid but growing relationship between Calder and Katja, and the struggle for Katja to trust the man who has all but destroyed her heart and her soul.

THE HIGHLANDER’S VIKING BRIDE is a story of romance, betrayal, revenge and mistrust. Calder never thought about taking a bride but with his clan in total disrepair, Earl Sinclair’s offer is something he could not refuse. Katja is an independent young woman who has struggled all of her life to find a place in her father’s heart only to be rejected time and again. Her marriage to Laird Calder MacGerry comes with a promise of love but a love that will be threatened by sins of the past. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

THE HIGHLANDER’S VIKING BRIDE, like many of Cathy MacRae’s previous Highlander tales finds our couple apart for a good portion of the building story line. Katja believes she is better off, away from the Laird and his clan, and finds herself on the run, searching for family she hasn’t seen in years. Meanwhile Calder MacGerry must go in search of his wayward bride. More time together would have increased my enjoyment of the overall story. The premise is entertaining and passionate; the characters are colorful, strong willed, and charismatic; the romance struggles in the face of mistrust and threats against the heroine’s life. THE HIGHLANDER’S VIKING BRIDE is a dramatic and energetic story where a young woman finds happiness against the odds.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Excerpt

(Katja meets Calder)
Katja reluctantly heeded her father’s summons to the great hall. She much preferred taking meals in her chamber, as constant criticism and scorn from her father made for poor company. Her only regret was not spending the time with her brothers. She remembered the days before her amma died when mealtimes were pleasant, even enjoyable. She did not remember the days when her ma was alive.
Everyone in the keep knew guests had arrived—rumored to be the hated MacGerrys. Her father would likely use the opportunity to dangle her as bait again for some sort of alliance, her hand in marriage as part of the bargain. She grimaced. The MacGerry laird was as old as her sire—as were all the men her da had presented as prospective husbands.
“I willnae marry a man thrice my age. Why does he keep bringing such old relics about, Freki? Has the man not made the acquaintance of anyone younger than two score?”
Her companion did not answer.
Katja hurried to the great hall with Freki at her side. If she allowed her sire to wait too long, he would add to her humiliation by displaying her like a freshly caught trout in front of his guests. Much as she disliked appeasing him, flaunting her disdain was far worse.
When they reached the door to the hall, she raised a hand, whispering a command for her companion to wait outside the door as she perused the people seated in the great hall. Pale auras of color surrounded each man, giving the room a festive look were it not for the unsettling tale each told her. The reds of anger and lust, the brown of dishonesty, gray and sulphur of dark thoughts and pain. From long practice, she ignored the pale green of pity she knew were aimed at her.
Skirting the red auras, Katja moved silently into the room, attracting no attention. Years of avoiding her father gave her the skill to move about the castle like a ghost, finding tremendous value in being invisible when the need called for it. It wasn’t until she stood near the foot of the lower tables that anyone noticed her. Laird Sinclair’s eyes gleamed.
“Ah, here is my daughter. Katja, meet the new MacGerry Laird.”
The sight of a young man instead of the old laird she expected startled Katja. Tall, lean of muscle with dark brown hair and fair skin, his deep blue eyes were the color of sapphires or perhaps the ocean on a calm day. A high forehead, strong jaw and full lips made for a very handsome face. Lips which curved into a kind smile at her.
His eager blue eyes stared at her, as if caught in a pleasant dream. Katja’s stomach twisted in a way she’d not experienced before. Heat scorched its way from her head to her shoulders, tingling along her breasts and descending lower. She didn’t recognize or understand the strange awareness. Her breathing picked up its pace as her heart beat tripled. How could one look from a man inspire such a reaction?
She averted her gaze in an effort to wrestle her body and emotions under control. Inhaling deeply, she raised her eyes again only to find the same sensations slamming into her anew. She needed a distraction.
Use the sight. It doesnae lie.
Looking past her normal ability to see, she glanced first at her father. The darkening gray aura surrounding him reflected his greed, his nature growing more corrupt with time. A band of deep brown layered on top of the gray was new today. She knew it as a sign of deceit and wondered what he was up to. Scanning the rest of the table, the light blue surrounding her brothers Bjorn, Christer and Patrik reflected

About The author

Cathy MacRaeFollow Cathy: Twitter / Goodreads / Website / Facebook

Cathy MacRae lives on the sunny side of the Arbuckle Mountains where she and her husband read, write, and tend the garden—with the help of the dogs, of course.

 

You can visit with her on facebook, or read her blogs and learn about her books at www.cathymacraeauthor.com. Drop her a line—she loves to hear from readers!

 

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