Monthly Archives: September 2017

Tripped Out (Blacktop Cowboy 8.5 / 1001 Dark Nights) by Lorelei James-Review & Excerpt Tour

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TRIPPED OUT (Blacktop Cowboy 8.5 / 1001 Dark Nights) by Lorelei James-Review and Excerpt Tour

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TRIPPED OUT
Black Top Cowboy 8.5 / 1001 Dark Nights
by Lorelei James
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance
Release Date: September 12, 2017

Tripped Out

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 12, 2017

Where there’s smoke…

Stirling Gradsky abandoned the corporate rat race for a more laidback lifestyle. So it’s ironic she’s partnered with a hard-bodied, know-it-all scientist who treats her like a stoner instead of a stone cold business woman capable of running a large scale marijuana farm. Dr. Hot and Tattooed with the big…brain needs to stop sampling their product; he’s under the half-baked idea that he’s the boss.

Dr. Liam Argent’s doctorate isn’t in chemistry, but from the moment he meets his sexy new coworker, there’s enough heat between them to short out all the grow lights in the greenhouse. First item on his agenda? Clearing up the sassy, blunt blonde’s hazy notion that she’s in charge.

Sparks fly as their attraction blazes. But can they weed out their differences without getting burned?

••••••••

REVIEW: TRIPPED OUT by Lorelei James is the September 2017 novella (8.5) in the author’s Blacktop Cowboy erotic, romance series, and the latest installment in the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights anthology series. This is scientist and researcher Dr. Liam Argent, and businesswoman Stirling Gradsky’s story line. TRIPPED OUT 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 (Stirling and Liam) TRIPPED OUT follows the acrimonious relationship between researcher and scientist Dr. Liam Argent, and businesswoman Stirling Gradsky. Liam is a researcher and developer at High Society-a cannabis operation center in Denver, Colorado, owned and operated by siblings Stirling and Macon Gradsky. But from their first introduction Stirling and Liam have played a dangerous game of push and pull, practical jokes and pranks, name calling, and harsh words meant to offend and disparage. The palpable sexual tension does not go unnoticed until Macon Gradsky forces the bickering co-workers to work together toward a common goal. What ensues is the building sexual relationship between our leading couple.

TRIPPED OUT is a story that focuses on the legal marijuana industry in Denver Colorado. The author has done her homework as it pertains to the ins and outs of operating a weed growing and distribution center, as well as the inclusion of some scientific facts and figures. Liam and Stirling not only work at High Society but they are regular users of the recreational drug including the food products infused with the marijuana oil. With the addition of highly caffeinated drinks such as Red Bull, Mountain Dew, and weed infused Cola drinks, our leading couple spend most of their time docile, high or fighting over snacks and food.

TRIPPED OUT detours from the author’s usual Blacktop Cowboy story lines in that the premise does not focus on the farms, the rodeo or the ranch hands but on the controversial industry of legalized marijuana . The premise is entertaining and interesting; the characters are cute; the romance is seductive and passionate but got lost in the vast amount of detail concerning the growing of recreational and medicinal marijuana.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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TRIPPED OUT Trailer:

Direct Link: https://video214.com/play/99GdaHJhE1N7cSjaGARJYg/s/dark

excerpt

 

Cocky asshat. “Both.” She smiled. “From the moment you strolled in here, you’ve acted uptight and holier-than-thou. It reminded me of me a few years ago and I hated the reminder. Then you were stubborn about cooperating with me—”
“Or you refused to do things my way, as I saw it,” he interjected, “but go on.”
“And I started pranking you, expecting you’d ignore it. But you embraced it. You even surpassed me on a few occasions. So…” Shut up, Stirling. You’ve already said too much.
“So…?” he prompted.
“I was surprised you gave as good as you got.”
His gaze encompassed her face before he trained his focus entirely on her lips.
“What?”
“You have no idea how much I want to prove how good I can give it to you.”
Boom. It was as if a thunderclap cleared the air between them, leaving energy crackling in the space, buzzing and ready for lightning to strike at any moment.
“Stirling.”
That voice. Pure sex. Her mind screamed at her to retreat, but her body, lulled by the warmth of his muscular leg pressing into hers, refused to budge. “But…you’ve always acted like I’m beneath you.”
“I’ve always wanted you beneath me.” He angled his head until his mouth touched the spot below her ear.
She didn’t want to break the spell, but she trembled when his lips journeyed down the side of her neck. “I didn’t think you were attracted to me,” she said on a near whisper.
“And I didn’t think you were an idiot, Miss Gradsky.”
Stirling froze.
Then Liam was nose to nose with her, his eyes fierce behind his glasses. “You are a beautiful woman. Stunningly beautiful when you smile, cunningly beautiful when you’ve got that devious look in your eyes. You’re intelligent and clever, and I’d be a fool not to be attracted to you.”
“And you, Dr. Liam Argent, are no fool,” she whispered.
“Exactly.” He smiled. “So the question is… What do we do about it?”
Take a step back?
Or take a leap of faith?

 

 

About the Author Black and Green

Lorelei JamesLorelei James is the New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author of contemporary erotic western romances set in the modern day Wild West and also contemporary erotic romances. Lorelei’s books have been nominated for and won the Romantic Times Reviewer’s choice Award, as well as the CAPA Award. Lorelei lives in western South Dakota with her family…and a whole closet full of cow girl boots.

From Lorelei: “Why do I have a particular fondness for all things western? Well, I’m a fourth generation South Dakotan, living in the Black Hills, which is chock-full of interesting characters, including cowboys, Indians, ranchers, and bikers. The geographical diversity of the surrounding area showcases mountains, plains, and badlands. Living in and writing about rural settings gives me a unique perspective, especially since I’m not writing historical westerns. Through my fictional world, I can show the ideals and the cowboy way of life are still very much alive.”

 

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Royal Attraction by Tiffany Truitt – a Review

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Royal Attraction by Tiffany Truitt – a Review

 

Royal AttractionAmazon / B&N / Kobo / BAM

Description
Alexandra Ryans’s life has been anything but normal. Some might even call it a fairy tale. As the daughter of the former U.S. ambassador to England, she grew up within the palace walls, best friends with the three young princes. Adored by the press and the British people. What more could a girl want?

If only the press knew the real story behind her relationships with the Dudley boys. Then, they’d really sell some papers.

Oliver Dudley, youngest son and third in line for the throne, loves everything about his life. The fame. The parties. The women. The utter lack of expectations and responsibilities that come with being last in the line of succession. But while the world thinks he has everything he wants, there’s one thing he was never able to call his own—the beautiful and spunky American Aly Ryans. But how can he convince her when she hates everything about his life? And what is he willing to give up to get her?

 

Review:

Alexandra Ryan is the daughter of an American Ambassador, and one of the King of England’s most trusted friend and advisor.

When Aly’s life takes a drastic turn and she loses her mother at a young age. Her father is asked to move into the royal palace and aid the King.

This means Aly’s life becomes meticulously intermixed with the royal princes.  Growing up within the Palace afforded Aly a lot of luxuries she would not have had living a normal life.  But it also brings with it the press, and they are ever watching and scrutinizing every move. But, it also gave her three best friends in the royal princes.  They were all always there for each other.  In fact as a small girl Aly always saw herself falling for the oldest prince – Aiden.  Aiden was thoughtful, kind, and artistic.  And he was always there for Aly. But when Aiden goes off to college and returns on break something has changed.  Aiden is no longer the young, artistic kid – he has come back an all business, proper Prince.  And the change in Aiden crushes Aly.  She turns to one of the other princes – Oliver.  But when Aiden catches Oliver and Aly together all hell breaks loose. And Aly is feels like she is the cause of all the problems and her only option is to leave the palace and what better place to make a clean break than the United States. 

Aly decided to enroll in school and hopes that she can continue on with her life – leaving the royals to their own business. A few years pass and now that Prince Fredrick is getting married and she has been summoned back to the royal palace.  Her life in the states has not gone quite as well as she had planned. She has dropped out of school, had an affair with a professor that she did not know was married and the last thing she wants is to be brought into the limelight of a royal wedding.  She begrudgingly returns.

When she does she soon realizes that it has always been Oliver. Even before she knew it herself it has always been him. But Oliver has his own trouble and trials. He is always in the press and it isn’t always good. Aly isn’t sure she has a place in their life anymore and as soon as the wedding is over she is returning to the States.  But things don’t go as she has planned – and Ollie is bound and determined to convince her to try and make it work with him! Can they live happily ever after? Will Ollie still want her after he finds out the truth of what happened in the States? 

A true fairy tale romance! While it takes them a few years to come around,  it certainly makes for an amazing read when they do! I loved every single character and their relationship to each other!

Aly is strong willed and fun. While she grew up in the palace she remained true to herself! I loved how she interacted with everyone! And you want   nothing than for her to get the fairytale ending. At first Ollie came across as a cocky ass. But he slowly grew on me. His intentions with Aly were always pure and he truly loved her. You could feel it. Every prince in this book had a charming quality and truly seemed down to earth! Great read and truly heart-warming fairytale! 

Reviewed by Erin

Copy provided by Publisher

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Barking Up the Wrong Tree (Sex and Sweet Tea #3) by Juliette Poe-Review Tour

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BARKING UP THE WRONG TREE (Sex and Sweet Tea #3) by Juliette Poe-Review Tour

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BARKING UP THE WRONG TREE
Sex and Sweet Tea #3
by Juliette Poe
Release Date: September 14, 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance

Barking Up The Wrong Tree

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 14, 2017

Things in Whynot, NC have gone to the dogs, and that’s just the way the town’s only veterinarian, Laken Mancinkus, likes it. No matter if she’s up when the rooster crows, or working until the cows come home, Laken never leaves an animal in need. So when a gorgeous Yankee comes begging for help herding some wily goats, Laken is up to the task.

Jake McDaniel is looking for a tax break, and what better way than to take up…farming? This ex-football player turned businessman turned unwitting goat farmer is up to his knees in goat drama. Runaway goats, dehydrated goats, and a baby goat that wants no one other than him, Jake needs more help than he cares to admit. Good thing the sexy veterinarian is right there to coach him on how to be a farmer. The only problem is, Laken’s not looking for anything more than a good time, while Jake is looking for his forever girl.

Will the baby goat, and Laken, be enough to get Jake to stay? Or will he take his tax break and hoof it back to Chicago? One thing is for certain…what happens on the farm doesn’t always stay on the farm.

••••••••

REVIEW: BARKING UP THE WRONG TREE is the third installment in Juliette Poe’s (Sawyer Bennett) contemporary, adult SEX AND SWEET TEA romance series focusing on the Mancinkus siblings. This is veterinarian Laken Mancinkus, and former pro football player Jake McDaniel’s story line. BARKING UP THE WRONG TREE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from four first person points of view (Laken, Jake, Pap and Herman- the dog) BARKING UP THE WRONG TREE follows the building relationship between veterinarian and hometown girl Lake Mancinkus, and businessman and former professional football player Jake McDaniel. Jake McDaniel lives and works in Chicago but a business opportunity and potential tax write-off presented itself in Whynot, NC with the purchase of a local goat farm. But Jake McDaniel knows nothing about farming including the raising of baby goats. Enter Whynot’s veterinarian Laken Mancinkus, the woman with whom Jake will fall in love but a woman determined to never leave Whynot again. What ensues is the building love between two people whose relationship is destined to fail when neither one is willing to compromise about the future.

BARKING UP THE WRONG TREE is a sweet story of romance, family, and small town sensibilities for one woman who has been there, done that and came back with her tail tucked between her legs. Laken has been burned by a previous relationship and struggles with the possibility of a happily ever after. Jake McDaniel is a former football star whose time in the pros was cut short by a career ending injury. Investments and the potential to help out his family find our hero investing in a farm he knows nothing about.

The relationship between Jake and Laken is one of immediate attraction although neither one is impressed upon their first meeting. Jake is a man willing to give a long distance relationship a try; Laken believes there is no happy ending when neither one is willing to concede or talk about their possible futures. The $ex scenes are all implied and fade to black.

Most of the previous story line characters play secondary and supporting characters including Laken’s siblings: Colt, Trixie, Laken’s twin Larken, Lowe and Melinda, as well as their grandfather Pap. Although I am probably in the minority, I have difficulty with the ‘animal point of view’-it’s just me, but the child-like perspective doesn’t belong in an adult story line.

BARKING UP THE WRONG TREE is another endearing story of romance; a sweet and simple story about love, family and a happily ever after. The premise is charming; the characters are colorful; the romance is comfortable and sweet. The story line conflict comes in the wake of two stubborn people refusing to look at the bigger picture.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Ain’t He Precious
Stubborn as a Mule
Barking Up the Wrong Tree

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Barking up the Wrong Tree teaser

About the Author yellow

Sawyer Bennett : Juliette Poe

Follow: Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

Juliette Poe is the sweet and swoony alter ego of New York Times Best Selling author, Sawyer Bennett.

A fun-loving southern girl, Juliette knows the allure of sweet tea, small towns, and long summer nights, that some of the best dates end sitting on the front porch swing, and that family is top priority. She brings love in the south to life in her debut series, Sex & Sweet Tea.

When Juliette isn’t delivering the sweetest kind of romance, she’s teaching her southern belle daughter the fine art of fishing, the importance of wearing Chucks, and the endless possibilities of a vivid imagination.

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Contracted Defense (Safeguard #3) by Piper J. Drake-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway Tour

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CONTRACTED DEFENSE (Safeguard #3) by Piper Drake-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway Tour

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CONTRACTED DEFENSE
Safeguard #3
by Piper J. Drake
Genre: adult, contemporary,erotic, romantic suspense
Release Date: September 15, 2017

Contracted Defense

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iTunes

About the book: Release Date September 15, 2017

Time is running out and the enemy is at the gate.

Adam Hicks may be the rookie at Safeguard, but he’s no novice in the field. Retired from active duty after multiple tours and back fresh from a brief rest in New Zealand, he’s itching to return to action. But the challenge he hoped for arrives in an unexpected form: his sexy yet stern new partner.

The last thing Victoria Ash wants is to work with the new guy—especially one as gorgeous as Adam. His relaxed attitude about their first “easy” assignment together—setting up a private home defense network for a reclusive client—doesn’t impress her. Easy usually means trouble. She’s proved right when Adam discovers that the multiple incursions on the physical and cyber security systems aren’t just glitches. They’re under attack…and there’s a traitor in their midst.

As tension mounts, so does the attraction between Victoria and Adam. They must protect their client and the research he’s desperately trying to keep secret. Working together, they have to find the mole before their defense measures, in the fortress and online, are compromised and the deadly secrets they’ve sworn to protect are revealed.

••••••••

REVIEW: CONTRACTED DEFENSE is the third installment in Piper Drake’s contemporary, adult SAFEGUARD romantic, suspense series focusing on the men and women who work for the SAFEGUARD Division of the Centurion Corporation-military veterans turned mercenaries for hire who specialize in protection and security. This is Safeguard agent Victoria Ash, and former US solider Adam Hicks’ story line. CONTRACTED DEFENSE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from previous story lines is revealed where necessary but I would recommend reading the series in order as there is an ongoing premise and threat throughout.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Victoria and Adam) CONTRACTED DEFENSE focuses on the Safeguard’s latest assignment-a well to do businessman whose need for protection appears unwarranted. With a well-trained security team already in place, Safeguard sends in Victoria Ash, and newcomer Adam Hicks- Victoria’s one-night stand from the night before, and the man with whom Victoria will fall in love. As Victoria and Adam struggle to ensure their latest contract duties are met, secrets behind the walls of the beautiful estate place our leading couple in a perilous situation. What ensues is the building romance between Victoria and Adam, and the potential fall-out as Safeguard Security falls victim to a former adversary.

The relationship between Victoria and Adam is one of immediate attraction. When Victoria is partnered with her anonymous one-night stand she is reluctant to further explore the attraction between them. Adam is willing to give their relationship a try but Victoria is fresh off a divorce, and the resulting aftermath has hardened her heart. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Gabriel Diaz and his fiancée Maylin Chen (Hidden Impact #1) , sniper Lizzy Scott (Deadly Testimony #2) : billionaire businessman Roland Edwards; Roland’s in house security team- Dante, Ray, Brian and Jay- a man who struggles with Adam’s presence on his latest assignment.

CONTRACTED DEFENSE continues to focus on the negative rumors circulating throughout the security industry-rumors that are directly affecting Safeguard’s contracts and their bottom line. Their battle with Phoenix Biotech does not appear to be over although their relationship with Seattle law enforcement and the US Marshals office should have garnered most positive coverage.

CONTRACTED DEFENSE is a story of suspense, intrigue, romance and love. The premise is energetic and exciting although the guilty party is easily deduced; the characters are spirited and dynamic; the romance is intimate and intense.

CONTRACTED DEFENSE is a sexy, passionate and dramatic story line that will captivate your attention from the very start.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

—————–

Hidden ImpactHIDDEN IMPACT
(Safeguard #1)
by Piper J. Drake
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romantic suspense

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

About the book : November 9, 2015

He’s not the hero she’s looking for…

As part of the elite Centurion Corporation team, military-veteran-turned-mercenary Gabriel Diaz is a natural defender. He’ll do anything to ensure a mission is successful. Anything but get emotionally invested—he learned the hard way that can be deadly. Easy bodyguard jobs in between the more challenging missions are all he’s interested in now.

Maylin Cheng is desperate and running out of time. Her younger sister has gone missing but no one seems to take her concern seriously. Her last hope lies in asking an aloof bodyguard for help. He dismisses her outright, but all that changes when she is almost killed in a not-so-accidental hit-and-run right before his eyes.

As Maylin leans on Gabriel, she begins to rely on him for more than just her safety. But as their attraction grows, so does the danger surrounding them. When the elaborate web they’re trapped in unravels, Gabriel will do anything to protect them. Even if that means putting his heart in the crosshairs.

Book one of the Safeguard series

••••••

REVIEW: HIDDEN IMPACT is the first installment in Piper J. Drake’s contemporary, adult SAFEGUARD romantic, suspense series focusing on the men and women who work for the SAFEGUARD security agency. This is US military veteran/mercenary for hire Gabriel Diaz, and caterer Maylin Cheng’s story line.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Gabriel and Maylin) HIDDEN IMPACT focuses on the search for a missing person. Caterer Maylin Cheng is desperate to locate her sister who was abducted at a genetics conference in China , and her latest catering job brings our heroine up close and personal with the Centurion Corporation- an elite group of former military personnel; private military contractors for hire. Enter Gabriel Diaz, the man with whom Maylin will fall in love. What ensues is the building relationship between Maylin and Gabriel; the search and rescue of An-Mei Cheng; and the revelation that the Centurion Corporation has been targeted from someone once on the inside. The Centurion Corporation is a training center for private military contractors who work ‘outside’ of the US and international laws but there are threats against the mercenaries for hire-threats that are both professional and personal.

The relationship between Maylin and Gabriel is one of immediate attraction but Gabriel knows to fall in love would mean to threaten his position within the Centurion Corporation. Maylin’s attraction to Gabe is palpable, and in this she is determined to seduce the man with whom she is falling in love. Maylin is a strong heroine; and Gabe’s protective nature does not come with the alphahole attitude that many romantic suspense heroes have ingrained. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to Gabriel’s fellow teammates including sniper Lizzy Scott, Victoria Ash, and her partner Marc; Harte-the man in charge of the Centurion Corporation; and Jewel, Gabriel’s former lover. The requisite evil has many faces including the Edict –another private military contractor out to destroy the Centurion Corporation.

HIDDEN IMPACT is a quick read; an action packed story of intrigue, romance and suspense. The premise is entertaining and exciting; the characters are sexy and colorful; the romance is erotic and passionate.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Excerpt

Adam stepped back, drawing her attention to him and tapping the dry-erase marker against the palm of one hand. “If one of us was planning an attack on this place, what would we do?”
Easy. Planning an attack was easier in her mind than planning the defense of a place. She immediately ran through any number of possible approaches to gather information about the defenses and security.
And his point hit her right in the chest. “The alarm. It wasn’t to check to see if there was an alarm. It was to time the response from the security team and local police.”
Possibly, it was to time how long it would take for Victoria and Adam to arrive on site.
Adam turned to face her. “There is an impending attack in the works. We have no idea what the scale is or even why. But Roland is not delusional.”
Suddenly, this mission was a whole lot more serious, and Adam, to her eyes, was looking incredibly dangerous.
“Let’s get back to setting up the layered defenses then.” Before she jumped him, right against the wall.

About The author

 

Piper J DrakePiper J. Drake is a bestselling author of romantic suspense and edgy contemporary romance, a frequent flyer, and day job road warrior. She is often distracted by dogs, cupcakes, and random shenanigans.Connect with Piper at: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Google + | GoodReads | Youtube

 

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Dirty Little Secret (Forbidden Desires #1) by Kendall Ryan-Review Tour

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DIRTY LITTLE SECRET (Forbidden Desires #1) by Kendall Ryan-Review Tour

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DIRTY LITTLE SECRET
Forbidden Desires #1
by Kendall Ryan
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance
Release Date: September 14, 2017

Dirty Little Secret

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

Add to your GOODREADS shelf.

About the book: Release Date September 14, 2017

She’s much too innocent for me, but that doesn’t stop me from wanting the sweet, young librarian. I’m dominating and possessive, and my control streak runs a mile wide.

The way she looks at me—like I’m one of the heroes in the books she loves, like I’m broken, and she wants to be the one to piece me back together—it only complicates things further. I’m nobody’s hero.

But there’s no denying my tragic past reads like one of her favorite literary classics. It’s raw. Visceral. Captivating. And together, we’re a perfect mess.

How can I resist when the sexual sparks zapping between us set me on fire? The need to control, and claim her force my walls to come tumbling down, but when she learns about my dirty little secret, will my world come crashing down with it?

The story continues in Dirty Little Promise, releasing October 9, 2017

•••••••••

REVIEW: DIRTY LITTLE SECRET is the first installment in Kendall Ryan’s contemporary, adult FORBIDDEN DESIRES erotic, romance series. This is successful businessmen Gavin Kingsley, his brother Cooper, and thirty year old librarian Emma Bell’s story line.

Told from three first person perspectives (Gavin, Cooper, Emma) DIRTY LITTLE SECRET follows the building relationships between librarian Emma Bell, and two brothers who battle for our heroine’s affections. For months Emma Bell has ‘stalked’ a man she will come to know as successful businessman Gavin Kingsley- a man who keeps secret his past buried beneath a cold façade of professionalism and formality; an intense and arrogant, emotionally withdrawn alpha male. A wayward business card finds our heroine researching the man with whom she will fall in love but not before facing a life altering decision to ‘work’ for the men in charge. What ensues is the building romance between Gavin and Emma, and the potential fall out as Emma discovers the truth about his past.

On the surface DIRTY LITTLE SECRET is a love triangle but a triangle where two people become lovers leaving the third to clean up when everything goes wrong. Both men ‘need’ Emma’ for personal and professional reasons but it is Emma and Gavin’s overwhelming obsession with one another that pushes Cooper to side, only to be pulled back in when Emma’s life spirals out of control. An ex seeking a second chance; a past mired in dark secrets; a family history of heartbreak and pain finds our couple battling emotional highs and lows, as well as a potential relationship where only one half of the couple is willing to take a chance on something more.

We are introduced to Gavin’s brothers-Cooper and Quinn- three brothers who own and operate a successful business that caters to the rich and famous; Gavin’s PA Alyssa; as well as Emma’s co-worker and friend Bethany.

I am purposely keeping ‘secret’ the more intricate details of Kendall Ryan’s DIRTY LITTLE SECRET including the business of which the Kingsley brothers own. As Emma and Gavin’s relationship begins to build, Cooper knows that his feelings for Emma will never be returned but saying that Emma’s dependence upon Cooper continuously gives Cooper a glimmer of hope-a glimmer that dims time and again.

DIRTY LITTLE SECRET is a slow building story line as Gavin struggles with his feelings for Emma Bell but saying that I had a difficult time ‘feeling’ the attraction; there was no palpable sexual energy between our leading couple but I did feel something more for Cooper Kingsley. Looking back, I think I am struggling with Emma and Gavin’s relationship due to the cold persona and arrogant attitude offered as a result of Gavin’s darkened past- a past that has yet to come fully into the light. There was just something missing; I couldn’t connect with the story line couple, and in this my emotional attachment is uncertain. Cooper knew his brother Gavin was attracted to Emma Bell, and knowing this he continued to push Gavin after every encounter. The premise is dramatic; I felt somewhat ambivalent and neutral about the leading characters (Gavin and Emma), and Emma’s lack of personality is disconcerting; the romance struggled with Gavin’s inability to move on from the past.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Dirty LIttle Secret Teaser

About The Author Black and Min

A New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of more than two dozen titles, Kendall Ryan has sold over 1.5 million books and her books have been translated into several languages in countries around the world. She’s a traditionally published author with Simon & Schuster and Harper Collins UK, as well as an independently published author. Since she first began self-publishing in 2012, she’s appeared at #1 on Barnes & Noble and iBooks charts around the world. Her books have also appeared on the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists more than three dozen times. Ryan has been featured in such publications as USA Today, Newsweek, and InTouch Magazine.

Visit her at: www.kendallryanbooks.com for the latest book news, and fun extras

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Interview with Cover Model & DJ Mitchell Wick

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Interview with Cover Model & DJ Mitchell Wick

TRC:  Hi Mitchell and welcome to The Reading Café.

We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Follow Mitchell: Facebook / Instgram / Twitter / Website

Mitchell Wick 12Mitchell:  Hey I’m Mitchell Wick, born in Sydney, Australia. I’m the youngest of three, with two older sisters and  a very close family which are everything to me. Enjoy getting outdoors and keeping fit, when I’m not doing that I’m working on my music 🙂

TRC:  What were your dreams and aspirations growing up?

Mitchell:  Wanted to be a professional footballer (soccer) 

TRC:  What first sparked your interest in modeling? Is there a defining moment where you knew that modeling was something you were interested in pursuing?

Mitchell:  I was approached at a music festival in Miami, USA. At the time I was over working at my current job (telecommunications technician) so decided to take the risk and give it a go! Best decision of my life to date haha 🙂

Mitchell Wick Trio


TRC:  Have you ever had a photo shoot that went completely wrong?

Mitchell:  Wouldn’t say completely wrong but Ive had some rough days that’s for sure, one especially in Colombia when not one person in the crew could speak English which made for a very difficult long day of shooting!


TRC:  Nudity in modeling or acting can be controversial.  Some pictures can cross the line between sexuality to pornography. What would you tell young models/actors just entering the business about nude modeling and photography?

Mitchell Wick Leslie McAdam duo

Mitchell:  Nudity is part of life and if shot properly is beautiful, but if its not then it can be the total opposite and you don’t want to be apart of that! You have to be smart about who you are going to shoot nude with and really trust that photographers vision and have a good relationship with them beforehand to make sure you are both comfortable. Also make sure you know what the images are going to be used for exactly and the mood of the shoot before you commit to anything!


TRC:  The modeling industry exposes you to many people and sometimes it can be very stressful.  What do you do when the stress becomes overwhelming?

Mitchell:  Escape to a place I know I can forget about everything like going surfing or hiking, these are the best ways for me to clear my mind, relieve stress and just enjoy nature without worrying about a thing!

TRC:  At times, there has been a ‘stigma’ surrounding the male model and the romance-cover industry but the popularity of the romance story line has skyrocketed in the last few years especially with the erotic and sensual cover images. What is your opinion about the recent popularity and the very busy industry of the ‘romance cover model’?

Mitchell Wick Kim Karr covers

Mitchell:  As I’ve been on multiple romance covers now its obviously great for me as its work, but on top of that I really enjoy seeing my image on the cover of these books and the buzz it creates!

TRC:  Do you believe the cover image plays a deciding factor for many readers in the process of selecting a book or new series to read?

Mitchell:  For sure, I believe a appealing cover plays a huge part of a successful book. Who wants to pick up and read something thats not visually appealing to the reader? Especially for a romance novel!

TRC:  Do you know the number of novel covers that your image has appeared?

Mitchell:  I believe around 7-8

TRC:  Do you remember the first romance cover on which you appeared? Do you have a favorite?

Mitchell Wicke Cover 4Mitchell:  I do, my first cover was for Leslie McAdams – Stars in the sky, she was amazing and got me involved with the community 🙂


TRC:  Would you please tell us what you do to relax?

Mitchell:  Surf, hike, listen to music and hang with friends.

TRC:  What three things would you like to accomplish in the next five years?

Mitchell:  Greater success in modelling/DJing, start a family & settle down in one place 🙂


TRC:  What is something that few, if anybody, knows about you?

Mitchell:  I can’t give that away then everyone will know right? ….. but I sleep kinda weird with my arms tucked up at times…. you have to see it to believe haha it’s a little odd 🙂


TRC:  What do you believe is the biggest misconception about modeling ?

Mitchell Wick duo 2

Mitchell:  Easy work and high paying, its not true at all! Its a hustle and very testing at times but I love what I do and will continue to keep pushing myself to achieve more in the industry!

TRC:  What type of music do you listen to? What songs are on your playlist today?

Mitchell:  House & techno mostly, that’s what I mix when DJing 🙂

TRC:  On what on your currently working?

Mitchell:  DJing tour 🙂

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food: Seafood

Favorite Dessert: Frozen Yoghurt

Favorite Movie: Shawshank Redemption

Favorite TV Show: Game Of Thrones

Last Movie that you saw: Wind River

Dark or Milk Chocolate: Milk

Do you have any pets? No, I travel too much 🙁

Pet Peeve: Greed

TRC:  Thank you Mitchell for taking the time to answer our questions.Congratulations on all of your success and the amazing cover images. We wish you all the best and many more covers !!

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Drunk On You (Hope Town #4) by Harper Sloan-Review Tour

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DRUNK ON YOU (Hope Town #4) by Harper Sloan-Review Tour

Drunk on You BAnner

DRUNK ON YOU
Hope Town #4
by Harper Sloan
Release Date: September 12, 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance

Drunk on You

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

About the book: Release Date September 12, 2017

t was supposed to be fun.
A mutual use of each other’s bodies.
To be a ruse to the world around us.
I wanted to be free from my ex, and he wanted to escape his.

One drunken night turned a joke into a life-changing moment.
He warned me not to fall for him, and I should’ve listened.

He intoxicated me.
He made me crave him.
He ruined me.
In the end, I’ll never be the same.

••••••••

REVIEW: DRUNK ON YOU is the fourth installment in Harper Sloan’s contemporary, adult HOPE TOWN erotic, romance series –a spin off and next generation series from the author’s Corps Security. This is bar owner and former male stripper Shane Kingston, and primary school teacher Nikki Clark’s story line. Nikki is best friends with Ember Reid: and Shane co-owns the nightclub and bar The Dirty Dog with his friend and Ember’s husband Nate (When I’m With You #3). DRUNK ON YOU can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information is revealed from previous story line.

NOTE: DRUNK ON YOU contains graphic sexual language, as well as scenes of D/s (Domination and submission), spanking and punishment that may not be suitable for all readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Nikki and Shane) DRUNK ON YOU is a story of friends to lovers, fake girlfriend/boyfriend trope that finds Nikki Clark desperate to push her possessive ex out of her life. Offering Shane a no-strings attached, fake girlfriend scenario is perfect for our story line hero as he too, is desperate to push his ex out of the picture. With no promise for the future, and no promises of love Nikki and Shane set about their fake relationship that turns into something more. What ensues is the building love between two people whose lives will be destroyed by one man’s lack of trust, and his inability to let go of the past.

DRUNK ON YOU is an erotic, romance story line with scenes of D/s, spanking, and punishment. Shane is a natural Dominant, and prefers his women to be obedient and amenable in the bedroom. Finding Nikki, a woman whose own sexual kinks border on the submissive is perfect for the their fake boyfriend/girlfriend arrangement until feelings and emotions get in the way.

The relationship between Nikki and Shane is one of immediate attraction but neither one was willing to push for something more believing they were both in committed relationships. With the revelation of two exes who refused to move on from the past, Nikki and Shane set into motion a plan in the hopes of breaking free of their previous destructive entanglements. The $ex scenes are erotic, aggressive and intense. Some readers may have issues with the D/s aspect of their earlier encounters.

Nate and Ember Reid (When I’m With You #3) play secondary and supporting roles. We are witness to Nate and Ember’s growing family; their over-protective friendships with our story line couple; and the successful expansion of the Dirty Dog, a success that threatens Nikki’s relationship with the man that she has grown to love.

DRUNK ON YOU and the Hope Town Series looks at the next generation of the original characters we met in the author’s Corps Security series but unlike the previous installments the Corps Security characters do not cross over in the current story line. Saying that, I miss some of the familiarity and the cohesion between the series. The premise is entertaining and inviting; the characters are sassy and energetic; the romance is raw and passionate.

Reading Order and previous reviews
Unexpected Fate
Bleeding Love
When I’m With You
Drunk on You

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Drunk on You Teaser

about the author

Harper SloanHarper is a NEW YORK TIMES, WALL STREET JOURNAL and USA TODAY bestselling author residing in Georgia with her husband and three daughters. She has a borderline unhealthy obsession with books, hibachi, tattoos and Game of Thrones. When she isn’t writing you can almost always find her with a book in hand.

Facebook | Website | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest | Goodreads | Amazon Author Page

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Intensity by Sherrilyn Kenyon – a Review

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Intensity by Sherrilyn Kenyon – a Review

 

IntensityAmazon / B&N / Kobo / BAM / Book Depository

Description:
It’s a demon-eat-demon world for Nick Gautier. Just when he thinks he’s finally gotten a handle on how not to take over the world and destroy it, Death returns with an all-star cast that is determined to end the Malachai reign and lineage forever. Worse? Death and War have found the one, true enemy Nick can’t find, and even if he did, it’s one he could never bring himself to banish or kill.

Now framed for murders he hasn’t committed, and surrounded by new friends who might be turncoats, Nick is learning fast how his father went down in flames.

The heat in New Orleans is rising fast, and Nick’s threat-level has gone into a whole new level of intensity. He’s learning fast that when War and Death decide to battle, they don’t take prisoners. The don’t negotiate. And they’re both immune to his biting sarcasm and Cajun charm. To win this, he will have to embrace a new set of powers, but one wrong step, and he will belong to the side of Darkness, forever.

Please note! While this is officially the last book of the Nick Chronicles, it’s not the “last” book.  There will be four books about Nick and Cyprian in the upcoming “Shadows of Fire” series.  Please stay tuned for those dates.

 

Review;

I really enjoyed Intensity by Sherrilyn Kenyon.  It was packed full of action, suspense, twists and turns that it left my head spinning.  As a matter of fact I’m still trying to wrap my head around everything that happened in this book.  In true Kenyon fashion, for every answer about an event or character in this book, we got about 10 more questions popping up in our head about something/someone else that hasn’t been answered by books end.  This is especially true after reading the epilogue as it’s setting us up for not only the next series, but the final set of stories for Nick.  To which I’m assuming will bring us to his adult DH book. 

As I said, so much happened in this one that I can’t say too much, or I’ll spoil the plot and information about characters and events that have either happened, are happening now or will happen.  Yes this book had lots of time travel; to the past, present and future. So much so that I had a hard time keeping up to where poor Nick was, who was after him now and what was going to happen next.  It got to the point I was leery about turning the page for fear it would bring on more confusion for me. LOL!!  Thank goodness for my version of Coles notes that I make as I go along when I read a Kenyon book these days. If I didn’t make my notes along the way to help connect the dots, I’d be totally lost.

Like I said a lot happens in this one and it happens fast. Hopefully without dropping too many spoilers or giving away plot line we learn more about;

-Nick’s mom, her bloodline and how it plays an important role in Nick’s personality and morals. 

-Jaden and Jared and how their lives came to be intertwined,

-Myone and Xevikan, their relationship and what became of it, along with interesting tidbits regarding Nick, Jared and Jaden

-Apolloymi’s true identity, some of her story, and an interesting tidbit about her and Nick

-Kody’s memory issues, and see a glimpse into her’s and Nick’s future, along with a fun fact about Simi in that future.  Also something shocking that happens in relation to Kody that I wasn’t happy about!

-Noir and Azure’s weakness, how it can destroy them and how they plan to stop it

-Cyprian, how he really came to be, who his parents are, why he’s after Nick and how he’s been wrecking havoc pretty much everywhere he goes

-an interesting tidbit about Takeshi and Nishira and see more into his life finally

There is so much more that happens, but I would be hear all day typing it up with all my connect the dots finds.  LOL!!  For anyone who is a Kenyon fan this is a must read.  If you haven’t been following this series you will definitely be lost trying to make heads or tails out of everything that happens in this book.  It’s an action packed adventure filled with twist and turns at every corner keeping you the reader on your toes in this page turner. Along with all the information we learn, Kenyon also keeps up her wacky sense of humour and sarcasm with her band of misfits in Intensity.  Now bring on Shadows of Fire because I can’t wait to see how this all plays out!

Until next time, happy reading my fellow Menyons!!

Reviewed by Marcie

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