Monthly Archives: October 2017

The Scot’s Bride (The MacGregors: Highland Heirs #6) by Paula Quinn-Review,Excerpt & Giveaway Tour

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THE SCOT’S BRIDE (The MacGregors: Highland Heirs #6) by Paula Quinn-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway tour

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THE SCOT’S BRIDE
The MacGregors: Highland Heirs #6
by Paula Quinn
Release Date: October 231, 2017
Genre: adult, historical, Highlander, romance

The Scot's Bride

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 31, 2017

AN IRRESISTIBLE SCOUNDREL
Highlander Patrick MacGregor likes his life just the way it is. Fighting for his coin, enjoying a woman’s charms, and bearing no responsibility at all. Aye, that’s the life for him. That is, until Patrick sees her-a raven-haired beauty with eyes as dark as midnight. Patrick swore never to fall in love. Not even with a lass as wild as he…especially when she’s from a rival clan.

AN UNDENIABLE DESIRE
Charlotte Cunningham knows Patrick is trouble the moment she sets eyes on him. Her only goal is to escape the possibility of marriage. Any marriage. But as the summer days turn into sultry nights, enticing her beyond reason, Charlie is forced to choose between the freedom she craves and the reckless rogue she can’t forget.

••••••••••

REVIEW: 5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

“Rachel, Paula Quinn has a new …” … “YES, YES, YES I will review! ABSOFRICKENLUTELY!”

So when Paula has a new release, this is generally how quick the response to a book review request is! LOL

The Scots Bride by Paula Quinn is the 6th book in her “The MacGregors: The Highland Heirs” series, and it is just as incredible as her previous 5. A highland historical romance where you get a taste of a time that was very tumultuous, the characters are believable and steamy, and the story line gets your heart pumping with each page you flip. I would recommend you read the previous books in this series and while you are at it be sure to check out her previous series where this one branches off from. Nothing like returning to characters that you fell in love with and seeing how their life has progressed. Personally that is one of my fave parts about Paula”s books, I get to visit old friends every few months.

Patrick MacGregor is a rogue. Straight up, no pretense, he is what he is. He has no time for marriage as his heart is a wandering heart. He seeks excitement, adventure and day to day living. He fights, he drinks, he keeps it simple and easy. and if a woman just so happens to cross his path, well who is he to refuse? He is handsome, rough around the edges and is about to have his world rocked by a raven haired lass who he happens to make eye contact with in a tavern.

Charlotte Cunningham is our raven haired lass who is just as set in her ways as Patrick is. She is stunning, intelligent, daring and comes to realize that eye locking with the hot rogue in a tavern she has no business in visiting is detrimental to her plan. NEVER fall in love and marry. Her father and brothers saw to that mindset by teaching her a horrid lesson that has left her desiring to be left the heck alone for her life. But, that man who set her on fire is always around, and she soon begins to wonder if falling in love could be so bad. Perhaps falling in love is not the issue though, as Patrick is from an enemy clan, and only more blood shed could come out of this union if the truth is set free.

This is a true slow burn kind of read. You get the instant attraction and the catch and release effect with this novel. You know this couple is facing some serious odds but you will come to root for them to find their way. They are very complimentary of the other, but not predictably so. They have their humorous moments, but I have to say it was the steamy love that I absolutely loved. Man can Paula Quinn write a love scene.

Set against the incredible highland scenery, for those that have experienced a Paula Quinn book, you will feel nostalgic when you read her descriptions, and for those that are reading her for the first time, you will fall in love with the vivid pictures her writing creates. I love the gruff, no apologies aspects of this time, but I also loved that her characters likes to break the rules.

Another fabulous book Paula, each book you write has it’s own feel and while the enjoyment remains the same, it is wonderful to get to that conclusion in different ways. I highly recommend for my fellow historical romance fans and be prepared to gobble this story up quick! 🙂

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Reviewed by Rachel T

Copy supplied for review

The Scot's Bride teaser

Excerpt beige

 

Charlie caught the subtle shift of his gaze toward her when she glared at him, doing her best to keep her eyes above his chin and ignoring his long, sculpted physique and broad shoulders. Was he speaking to her or her captor?
Dunbar laughed at his offer. “You don’t even carry a sword.” He looked him over. “Or even a place to hide one.”
It was true. Charlie hadn’t noticed it before. Patrick Campbell spoke like a Highlander and had dressed like one when she’d first seen him at Blind Jack’s yet he carried no obvious weapons.
“I dinna’ need one,” he claimed, his amiable smile changing slightly into something more ominous.
Charlie knew it was true. He had fought Hamish with no weapons other than his fists. What kind of Highlander didn’t carry a sword? The kind who doesn’t need one.
Campbell moved closer to her and the eight men behind her. His gait was wrought with ease and confidence while her brothers and her father remained still.
“I’ll kill you for this, Campbell,” Duff swore.
“That’s doubtful,” Campbell tossed back without turning around. Instead, he looked at Charlie, now only a few inches away, standing between him and her captor.
If there wasn’t a blade to her throat, she would have taken a moment to admire him and all his hard angles.
“Untie me,” he said to Dunbar, “and I’ll fight them all with no help or risk of injury to ye or yer men.” He lifted his bound wrists up, close to Charlie’s face and the dagger at her throat. “The Duke of Argyll will hear of how ye aided his nephew.”
Dunbar seemed to think it over for a moment and then moved the dagger away from her neck to possibly cut Campbell loose. But instead of waiting to be free, the Highlander moved in a blur of speed snatching the dagger from Dunbar’s hand. In one fluid movement that Charlie almost missed by blinking, Campbell, still bound and clutching the hilt in his fingers, lifted his arms and then brought them back down to capture Dunbar’s head between his forearms, and Charlie’s head between his thick upperarms.
An instant turned into an eternity while he pulled Dunbar closer, wedging Charlie up against his chest. Time slowed as she looked up and he tiled his head to meet her gaze. She stared into his summer-glade eyes—ringed by lashes that were that long—and the evidence of Hamish’s wrath on his lip. His current wounds and an older one which had broken his nose saved him from being pretty. His mouth crooked ever so slightly—just enough to flash his dimple and completely befuddle her. A rascal. That’s what he was. He was helping her. But why? Before she had to ponder it further, the instant was over.
He hauled Archie Dunbar an inch closer and knocked him out with a clean blow, forehead to forehead. He moved quickly and lifted his arms to release Dunbar from his hold then gave him a powerful kick in the guts to topple him over.
“Run!” He pushed Charlie behind him and faced the rest of the Dunbars alone.
Duff reached them at the same time and an instant before the stunned expressions on the faces of Dunbar’s men wore off and they rushed forward.
“Give me your hands!” Charlie commanded, tugging on Campbell’s sleeve. When he obeyed, she cut him loose using her black blade.
The fool took a moment to smile at her before she tucked the dagger back under her skirts.
Hendry finally joined the fight but Charlie couldn’t take her eyes off Mr. Campbell in the melee.


 

About The Author beige

New York Times bestselling author Paula Quinn lives in New York with her three beautiful children, three over-protective chihuahuas, and a loud umbrella cockatoo. She loves to read romance and science fiction and has been writing since she was eleven. She loves all things medieval, but it is her love for Scotland that pulls at her heartstrings.

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Hard Breaker by Christine Warren – Review, Excerpt, Tour & Giveaway

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Hard Breaker by Christine Warren – Review, Excerpt, Tour & Giveaway

 

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Description:
Ivy Beckett has a special gift. She can hear voices, feel events, and receive messages from great distances. Which is also a curse. The moment her family is killed by the servants of the Darkness, she knows it. And the only way to fight these evil forces is to align her powers with a Guardian. A legendary warrior of stone who strikes fear in her heart―and fire in her soul…

Baen is a fierce and powerful gargoyle who has sworn to protect all humans from the Darkness. But when this mighty winged warrior swoops down to rescue Ivy from the jaws of death, he is drawn into a battle that is more dangerous―and more intimate―than he ever bargained for. The beautiful, gifted Ivy touches something deep within him, an all-consuming passion that puts both their lives at risk. Can he conquer the armies of evil itself . . . without losing the woman he loves?

 

 

Review:

Hard Breaker by Christine Warren is the 6th and final book in her paranormal suspense Gargoyles series.  A brief refresher: there are seven dangerous demons who have been locked in imprisonment for centuries by a spell.  Should they escape, they will bring the world into darkness.  Seven guardians were created to protect humans, and defeat any demons who escape; but when the world is in peace, these guardians are put into stone cold sleep only to awake when they are summoned by a warden.

In Hard Breaker, Ivy Beckett, our heroine, lost her family to those demons of darkness.  With many of the demons escaping and darkness threatening the world as they know it, Ivy does what she can by helping find wardens and sending them to safety. Ivy has a gift, which she feels is a curse, where she can hear voices from anywhere.  When she is accosted by 3 demons, Ivy is rescued by a giant man who looks like a Gargoyle with wings.  

Baen, one of the seven guardians, wakes out of his slumber by a call of summoning for help.  When he rescues Ivy, he senses she has magic, and is the warden summoned him.  He tries to explain that she is his warden, Ivy refuses to believe she has any ability.  As they find a safe house to hide from the attacks, and for Baen to find the other Guardians, a slow built romance will begin.  Ivy is tough, and finds herself attracted to Baen, (who can switch to looking like a hunky gorgeous human), but she is scared, and does not believe she is a warden. 

Now that 6 of those powerful demons have escaped, the danger escalates and Baen and Ivy must find the other 5 Guardians to help fight the battle of their lives.  It was nice to see all the other heroes from the earlier books join together to find a way to defeat these demons. When they all meet in Paris, they will learn that the 7th Guardian has already been found, long before they even awakened.  He is between realms trying to make sure the 7th and last demon does not escape.

What follows is an exciting adventure where the 6 Guardians, their wardens, and the other wardens that they managed to rescue will devise a plan to save the world from darkness, as the final demons is about to escape.  The final battle is upon them, and they must free the last guardian who has been kidnapped.

Before the final battle, Baen tries to prove to Ivy that he loves her, and she is truly his warden and mate.  Ivy, feels the same about Baen, but her fears keep forcing her to pull back. When she listens to all the other wardens before her, she begins to realize that she belongs with them all, especially Baen.  When things get rough and nasty, she rises up with her fellow wardens and her magic will help bring them all together as the darkness is upon them.  I really did like Ivy and Baen together, and enjoyed seeing all of them for the final time.

Hard Breaker reads very well as a standalone. This entire series, written so well by Christine Warren,  was a fun, exciting, sexy and humorous read.   Since this book ends the series, I suggest you start with the first book, Heart of Stone. 

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

excerpt

 

Ivy felt a surge of satisfaction. Well, adrenaline, really, but whatever.
“Perfect.” She got to her feet and pitched her voice back to where it could just be overheard— significantly louder, but still natural. Also, a bit wheedling. “Let’s get out of here, Marty. You promised me dinner in a proper restaurant, not a pub, and I’m abso famished.”
Martin r ose awkwardly, sending their glasses to wobbling again. “Lead on, then, darling. Wherever you like.”
She forced a giggle. She hated to giggle. “Oh, you’re such a pudding. But now I’ve got to decide. Hm, Judy told me about this café . . .”
Her mouth continued to babble, spewing nonsense she pulled off the top of her head as she led the way through the crowd— steering well clear of Teddy and his mates— and out the front door. Turning onto the pavement, she kept up the patter until they had stepped well away from the pub en route to the tube station. Even then, though she let the inane drivel dry up, she continued to clasp Martin’s hand in hers and lean into him. They hadn’t been the only ones to leave the pub and the streets continued to bustle with both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. It was important to keep up appearances all the way through this journey.
“Okay, stage two,” she said softly as they strode toward the Underground station. “I have a bag at Left Luggage in King’s Cross that we’ll need to pick up. It has more information you’ll need to look over for your time with Paul, some snacks, and cash and new identification for you hidden in the lining. I’ll show you where. We’re on the last train to night, but we should have plenty of time to make it, so don’t worry about that.”
He nodded, but his gaze was glued to the pavement in front of them. Poor guy really didn’t have the right temperament for all this cloak- and- dagger stuff. But then again, she hadn’t thought she did, either, and look at her now— practically an expert, and armed on top of it.
Under her anorak and tight jeans, a custom- made dagger rode in a sheath at the small of her back. And oddly enough, she knew how to use it. Over the last several months, she hadn’t had much choice but to learn, until these days, it felt so comfortable, she almost forgot it was there.
Until moments like this, that is, when the hair on the back of her neck began to stand up and her senses put her on high alert.
“Bollocks,” she muttered. Faking another giggle, she turned playfully into Martin’s side and pretended to bury her face in his shoulder. In reality, she used the opportunity to take a look at the area behind them. She had felt confident that there had been no nocturnis in the pub with them who might try to follow, but she should have paid a bit more attention to Teddy and his band of happy hooligans. Three of them had exited the bar after Ivy and Martin and now trailed sixty or seventy feet behind them.
Normally, Ivy would have considered such an event no more than a slight bother, but something about their posture niggled at the back of her mind. The aggression she would have expected, but for some reason their stance struck her as more menacing than it ought to be.
Damn it, they didn’t have time for this shit. Or even if they did, Ivy just didn’t have the patience. Even worse, she knew they were coming up on the narrow cross street they would have to traverse to get to the tube. S he’d researched the route. The cross street was largely home to a few small businesses that would have closed down by six o’clock, a couple of daytime shops, at least one vacant building, and a church that had been abandoned a few years ago due to lack of funds available to repair a roof with more holes than tiles remaining. It was a quiet block, and quiet meant fewer people, which meant more opportunity for Teddy et al to try something stupid.
“What’s wrong?” Martin asked nervously as she turned back and casually picked up the pace of their walk. “What’s the matter? Is it nocturnis? Have they found me?”
The last question emerged on a squeak, and Ivy winced. She laughed loudly to cover up his blunder. “Oh, you!” she cried, then lowered her voice. “No, Martin. And you need to stay calm. How about you tell me more about yourself? What’s your main talent? I don’t think you told me that.”
By talent, she was referring to the magical ability that made up the most basic requirement of becoming a Warden. All members of the Guild needed to possess a talent— demonstrate the ability to wield magic—in order to be considered for admission. With luck, Martin’s would have some utility in a fight.
“What? Talent? Oh, er, I’m a dowser. Water dowser. Why?”
Oh, yeah, because a nice, deep aquifer was just what they needed right now.
“No reason,” she gritted out, fingers itching for the hilt of her knife. “No reason at all.”
Which was when she glanced over her shoulder and saw a dark shadow coalesce around Teddy and his friends. A shadow that swirled and twisted and then seemed to dis appear. Inside the three men.
Shit.
“What is it? What’s wrong.”
There went the panic again, creeping back into Martin’s voice at the least opportune of moments. Impatient, Ivy shook her head and urged him to walk a little faster. Not that it was likely to do them much good. “Nothing. Let’s just concentrate on getting to the station, shall we?”
She could hear her accent beginning to fray at the edges, her natural American pronunciation creeping in here and there, but right now that counted as the least of their worries. Much higher on the list was the fact that they were being followed down a now deserted street by three large, loutish men who hadn’t liked her to begin with and who now appeared to have fallen under demonic influence if not outright possession.
You know, one of these days one of her plans was going to have to go utterly smoothly, right? Just the law of large numbers made it inevitable, didn’t it? Well, today would have been a really good day for that to happen.
Instinct had her increasing her pace yet again until she found herself half a step from jogging down the pavement, tugging Martin along by her side.
“Hang on, then,” he protested, pulling against her grip and trying to actually slow her pace. The idiot. “If nothing’s wrong, why are you suddenly running?”
“I think that’s down to us, mate,” a voice snarled, closer behind them than it should have been. Their pursuers had moved fast, faster than normal.
Faster than was natural.
An instant later, something hit Ivy from the side, hard. The impact sent her staggering into the alley that opened up between two buildings at the side of the street. She stumbled into heavy darkness, away from the abandoned Gothic church across the way, away from the sight of anyone else who might wander onto the nearby pavement. To her credit, though, she managed to maintain her grip on Martin in spite of that, so she pulled him into the shadows beside her.
Perfect. Now they could be in deep shit together.
The hit had come as a surprise, but the three shapes rapidly closing in behind her, driving her and Martin deeper into the alley, did not. Ivy’s hand had moved at the first moment of contact with her attacker, fing ers closing around the hilt of her dagger and tugging it out of concealment in a smooth, practiced motion. Now, she held it in front of her as she used her grip on her companion to swing him out of the way b ehind her, placing him between her and the brick building wall.
“Ooh, you’ve brought along a toy, have you?” Teddy asked, grinning as he stalked forward, herding them away from the street and the potential of being seen by passersby. “Want to play, then, do you, luvie? I like a good game now and then.”
Ivy flicked her gaze among the three looming figures. She recognized all of them from the group gathered around the bar earlier, the ones who had witnessed Teddy hitting on her and her subsequent rejection of him. They had laughed at the time and gone right back to drinking, already half- pissed when the w hole thing began. Was it too much for her to hope that she had been mistaken? That this was just a garden- variety assault and maybe potential rape fueled by alcohol and wounded machismo? Because frankly, that would be a relief compared to the alternative.
“Yeh, we like to play,” the second lad hissed as he stepped forward until Ivy could see his face in the dim light of the alleyway. “We especially like to play with his sort.” He bared his teeth, and his eyes lit up with malice.
And Ivy didn’t mean that metaphorically. His eyes actually lit up. As in, started glowing. With a sick, rusty- red light that reminded her of old blood and dried scabs.
Very attractive.
And very much indicative of demonic influence.
Yay. S he’d been right. It wasn’t really her these three were after. They wanted Martin. They wanted the Warden.
Well, they weren’t going to get him. Not until they got past her.
“I’m ready to go, boys.” She took a step forward and flashed a toothy smile of her own. “And you know the rules. White makes the first move.”
Ivy struck with a feint toward Teddy, who stood closest to her, directly ahead. When instinct had him leaping back out of the way of her blade, she spun backward
to her left and landed a heel- first kick directly to the sternum of hissy boy. He grunted and stumbled back in surprise, but bachelor number three was already on the move. He closed in on Ivy from the left and grabbed her around her upper body, effectively pinning her biceps to her sides. She’d been expecting the move and countered by thrusting the dagger in a short, upward dig that buried it deep in number three’s thigh.
“Go, Martin!” she shouted above Three’s scream. “Get to the station! Lost Luggage under your name! Now!”
All of her attackers howled in protest. Three’s cry was still tinged with pain. It gave her a warm surge of satisfaction, even though it rendered her nearly deaf in her left ear, the one closest to his mouth. Jerking the knife back, she freed it from the man’s leg and went limp in his grip, relaxing her muscles until she slid straight
out of his arms to the floor of the alley.
Even as she hit the cobbles, she was already moving. She braced one hand, shifted her weight, and swung one leg around, aiming a heavy kick at the knee of the grabby Three’s wounded leg. He crumpled with a heavy grunt.
Teddy and number two rushed in to take his place, converging on Ivy before she could manage a glimpse to see if Martin had followed her directions. If he h adn’t, he was either dumber than he looked, or part possum and his nervous system had shut down from fear. Neither option would keep him alive, though, and as skilled as she had become in hand- to- hand combat a fter her years of self- defense classes back in New York and her training since taking on her rescue work in England, one human woman against three demonically influenced men didn’t offer her very good odds.
Chances were she wouldn’t leave this alley under her own power. Hell, she’d be lucky if she didn’t leave it in a coroner’s van. Which meant Martin had better be halfway down the steps to the tube already.
She ducked away from a swipe of Teddy’s outstretched hand, trying not to get distracted by the way the skin of his fingertips had split to allow the emergence of glistening black claws that dripped some sort of dark, stinking fluid. The smell of decayed flesh and filthy swamp water suddenly filled the alley, and Ivy had to fight back the urge to gag.
Oh, yeah. S he’d say this officially went beyond the realm of demonic influence. Hell, this went beyond possession. Somehow, demons had not just taken over these men’s’ bodies, they had used the energy of the human bodies to allow them to fully manifest into the human world.
In case anyone wondered, that was a really, really bad thing. Something Ivy wouldn’t have thought pos si ble six months ago.
But then again, six months ago, the world hadn’t quite started coming to an end yet. Today, anything was pos si ble.
With that cheery thought filling her mind, she swung her dagger in a wide arc that managed to catch opponent number two in the side, opening up a wound that audibly sizzled and began to ooze something much darker and slimier than blood. It didn’t smell like blood, either. The ichor reeked of the same foulness that hung around the venom dripping from Teddy’s claws.
Seriously, it was becoming a real challenge not to puke. What she wouldn’t give for a nice, stiff breeze right about then to dissipate some of the stink.
Two— Thing Two, Ivy decided to call him— hissed, his corrupt red gaze flicking between her and her blade with manic hatred. It made her smile in spite of the nausea.
“What’s the matter, pumpkin?” she taunted him. “ Aren’t you a fan of blessed and consecrated silver? Me, I just adore the stuff.”
She demonstrated those feelings with another quick slash of her arm, a motion that sliced through the jacket and shirt Teddy wore and into the flesh of his shoulder. She wasn’t particularly aiming for the brachial plexus nerve or a major artery, but she wasn’t going to cry if he started to bleed out or lost the use of his arm.
He screamed, but Ivy just continued her stroke and caught Thing Two across the cheek, just millimeters away from his left eye. Hm, close call, that. What a shame.
“Bitch!” the demon howled.
Ivy blew him a kiss. “Aw, love you, too, snookums.”
Her mother had always told her that her smart mouth would get her into trouble one day. Somehow Ivy didn’t think this par tic u lar trouble was what s he’d had in mind. You know, the whole “ripped apart by demons in a deserted alley” thing. Dorothy probably h adn’t seen that one coming.
One would hope.
By now, Thing Three was back on his feet, and Ivy knew she was seriously fucked. Three against one. Three demons against one, with no backup on the way. Working alone was one of the keys to protecting the Wardens people like her assisted. Now, it looked like she was going to die alone.
“Sorry, Uncle George,” she muttered, putting her back to the alley wall and keeping her gaze on the man- shaped creatures in front of her. They had realized her predicament just as clearly as she had, and now they were toying with her, watching her with evil, hungry gazes. Not the kind of hunger that would scare most women alone in an alley, but the kind of hunger that scared American turkeys in the middle of November.
“Sorry, Jamie,” Ivy added. “But on the bright side, looks like I’ll be seeing you both again soon.”
Thing Two snapped its jaws at her, jaws that it then unhinged to make room for the second row of pointed teeth that appeared to be growing behind the first, human set.
“Very, very soon.”
Holding her dagger in front of her and carefully balancing her weight on the balls of her feet, Ivy prepared to die fighting.
Oddly enough, that’s not what happened.
One minute, she stared down the face of the Grim Reaper and the next, reality went sideways. Instead of the front of three demons clearly prepared to feast on her living flesh, she felt a rush of cool air, heard a pavement- shaking roar, and found herself staring into a wide barrier the color of dark, aged granite.
She blinked, then shook her head and blinked again. The view didn’t change. Gradually her brain caught up with her corneas, and she realized that what had looked like a barrier of solid stone was actually a pair of wings. Huge wings, each easily twelve or thirteen feet from base to tip, leathery and membranous like a bat’s.
And they were attached to the broadest, most muscular back she had ever seen. A back that could only conceivably belong to one of two things:
A dragon.
Or a Guardian.Copyright © 2017 by Christine Warren and reprinted by permission of St. Martin’s Paperbacks.


 

theauthor

Christine B&W
CHRISTINE WARREN is the author of Stone Cold Lover and Heart of Stone, as well as the Novels of the Others, including New York Times Bestsellers Big Bad Wolf, Walk on the Wild Side, and One Bite with a Stranger. Born and raised in coastal New England, Christine Warren now lives as a transplant in the Pacific Northwest. When not writing (as if that ever happens), she enjoys horseback riding, playing with her pets, identifying dogs from photos of their underbellies, and most of all reading things someone else had to agonize over.

Website / Twitter / Facebook / Goodreads

 

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Christine’s publisher is graciously offering a paper copy of HARD BREAKER to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

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The Sea King by C.L. Wilson – Review, Interview and Giveaway

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The Sea King by C.L. Wilson – Review, Interview and Giveaway

 

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Description:
He wasn’t supposed to choose her…

Seafaring prince Dilys Merimydion has been invited to court the three magical princesses of Summerlea. To eradicate the pirates threatening Calberna and to secure the power of the Sea Throne, Dilys vows to return home with a fierce warrior-queen as his bride. But politics has nothing to do with unexpected temptation.

She didn’t dare wed him…

A weathermage like her sisters, Gabriella Coruscate’s gentleness exemplifies the qualities of her season name, Summer. Yet her quiet poise conceals dangerous powers she cannot begin to wield. Better to live without excitement, she reasons, than risk her heart and lose control— until an irresistible Sealord jolts her awake with a thunderclap of raw desire.

Until evil threatens everything they hold dear…

When pirates kidnap Summer and her sisters, Dilys is in a desperate quest to save the woman he loves. Only by combining his command of the seas with the unleashed fury of Summer’s formidable gifts can they defeat their brutal enemies and claim the most priceless victory of all: true love.

 

 

Review:

The Sea King by C.L. Wilson is the 2nd book in her Weathermages of Mystral series.  I have been waiting anxiously for this book, as I loved The Winter King.  Once again, C.L Wilson gives us a fantastic adventure, filled with amazing characters throughout.

In The Sea King, Dilys Merimydion, our hero, is the prince of Calberna, where his mother the Queen has informed him that it is time for him to take a wife.  Despite the council trying to make him wait years for a young girl to growup, the Queen overrules and Dilys, with his warriors heads for lands of the Ice King (Wynter, our previous book hero), to court one of the three magical princesses of Summerlea (Summer, Spring & Autumn). Right from the start, Dilys can feel an attraction to Summer, who does everything to push him away.  Dilys does not understand, and after much frustration, he decides to try to court one of the other two princesses.

Gabriella Coruscate (Summer) has had a secret all her life.  She has powers so strong and terrifying, which she has been able to control it, but at times when she has had to use it to protect herself, and is horrified at the results.  She is determined to not fall in love or get married; as it is too dangerous for anyone to accidently get hurt from her tremendous powers.  She realizes in a short time, that Dilys is indeed her mate, and she fights with all her being to her feelings and force him to court either Spring or Autumn.

Dilys is also worried about the attacks on his people from an unknown pirate named Shark, who is threatening those he loves back home.  After a bit, he does befriend both Spring and Autumn and they will both help him try to court the woman who calls to his heart, Gabriella.

This is where I need to point out some mixed feelings.  In the first half of the book, I was not a fan of Summer, as she was mean and nasty to Dilys.  I understand her fears, but he was so patient, so sweet and desperately trying to help her.  But she was extremely stubborn, and even when she finally admits her feelings to him, she refuses to marry him.  Very frustrating.  That will change later.

When Dilys leaves for a few days to go with his men to help on an attack against one of his ships, all three of princesses are kidnapped.  At this point, the story becomes centered on the pirate ship and Dilys attempt to find them.  This was very exciting, and at the same time a bit depressing.  The adventure was so well done by Wilson, and I am amazed how she was able to put all the pieces together. Keep in mind that this is not a short book, and most fantasy books are big.  My other mixed feeling was how the princesses were treated by the pirate, especially Summer, whom we spent most of the time with.  But unfortunately, in Fantasy we come to expect this.  As I said, that part was depressing.

When Dilys finally rescues Summer, things will change for all of them.  The hunt is on to find the pirate, and the two remaining sisters.  Summer is vengeful, which causes her powers to rise.  Dilys will see why Summer is afraid to love and marry him, but he will prove to her that together she can control her powers.

What follows is an exciting pulse pounding journey of survival, betrayal & battles against terrible villains in a fight to the finish in a wild mind boggling race to save them all. There were so many twists and surprises along the way that had us on the edge of our seat afraid to miss anything.  I loved Dilys throughout the whole book, and thankfully by a bit past the half way point, I loved Gabriella too.  Once she opened herself to love Dilys, and learn to handle her powers, she made a fantastic heroine.  The big question:  Will they survive?

The last third of the book was such an exhilarating and emotional ride.  Wilson also gives us two epilogues that will drive the next book in this series.  I can’t wait!  Bravo to C.L. Wilson for a fantastic wonderful story.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

Catching Up

Hi, Cheryl.  Thank you for taking the time to re-visit us at The Reading Café to discuss what you are currently working on and what we have to look forward to.

TRC: For those who have not read your first book in this series , The Winter King, can you please give us a brief description of the premise of  Weathermages of Mystral?

C.L. Wilson:  The Weathermages of Mystral is a fantasy romance series set in a world where everyone possesses some type of innate magic related to the world around them.  At present, the series focuses on the children of a weathermage known as the Summer King.   All of his children possess sun-related weather magic – they can generate heat, sense the location of the sun no matter the time of day or night, influence the weather with their gifts.  Khamsin, his youngest, possesses the power to summon storms.  His daughters Spring, Summer, and Autumn have weather gifts associated with the changing of the seasons for which they are named.  His son, Falcon, like his father has the ability to help regulate the weather across the kingdom, ensuring appropriate rainfall and sunshine for the various orchards, vineyards, and farmlands throughout Summerlea.  They use these gifts to ensure the fertility and prosperity of their lands.

As I expand the world beyond the children of the Summer King, I’m also exploring the other kinds of magic that exists on Mystral.

TRC: Your diehard fans have been waiting to find out when we can expect your next book, The Sea King.  We are thrilled to note that you do have a date…. October 31, 2017.  Will you please give us a brief description about The Sea King? 

C.L. Wilson: THE SEA KING features a hero and heroine who both appeared in THE WINTER KING.  The hero is Dilys Merimydion.  He came to Wintercraig as an invader but ended up fighting alongside Wintercraig forces to defeat the Ice King. In doing so, he earned the right for he and his men to return to Wintercraig and court potential wives.  

Dilys, royal prince of the island queendom of Calberna, has come to Wintercraig to court the Seasons of Summerlea.  His mother, the Queen, sent him to bring back home a bride, but although her advisors insist he should choose either Spring or Autumn—both confident, powerful women worthy of mothering Calberna’s next queen—it is shy, gentle Summer, widely acknowledged as the least powerful of all the Seasons, who captures his interest and won’t let go. 

But Summer isn’t the sweet, gentle Season everyone believes her to be.  She has a secret—a dark, deadly power so dangerous she dare never risk its release.  That is why she’s spent a lifetime hiding her true self behind serene masks, suppressing strong emotions and avoiding anything that threatens her ruthless self-control. Because like her father, whose love for his wife turned to madness after her death, when Summer loves, she loves too much. 

Then Calberna’s golden-eyed prince steps onto Wintercraig shores in search of a wife, and one shared look between them sends her reeling.  With unshakeable certainty, Summer knows Dilys Merimydion is all she could ever want, every happiness she could ever dream of, the greatest love she could ever know…and that makes him the one thing she can never allow herself to have.

TRC:  On your site you noted that The Sea King is the 2nd book of Weathermages of Mystral series, and the 1st book of Seasons of Summerlea trilogy.  Can you please explain how this will work? 

C.L. Wilson: Each book in the Seasons of Summerlea trilogy is a standalone fantasy romance featuring one of Khamsin’s three sisters, Spring, Summer, or Autumn.  Each book will have complete, standalone romance; but all three books will also be connected by an overarching plotline.  Book 1 of the trilogy, THE SEA KING, is Dilys and Summer’s story.  Book 2 of the trilogy will be THE JAGUAR KING where Spring finds her mate, and book 3, THE DRAGON KING, is Autumn’s story.   

Because the royal family of Summerlea has been in power in an unbroken familial line for millennia, they would have intermarried with numerous other, highly magical families…so I’m having a lot of fun with the Seasons’ books, playing around with the other kinds of magic they have inherited.

TRC: How many books are you anticipating for Weathermages of Mystral series, or does it end with The Sea King, moving on to the Seasons of Summerlea?

C.L. Wilson: I don’t have an answer for that.  The Seasons of Summerlea trilogy is part of the Weathermages series.  I’d at least like to do a book for all of the Summer King’s five children.  (That includes Falcon, who needs to redeem himself.)  But there are other characters I’ve met along the way who interest me and make me want to discover their stories as well.

TRC: 
You have previously mentioned that you wanted to go back to the Fading Lands and do stories on two of your heroes…Belliard and Gaelen.  Is this still on your agenda?  Will we going back to the Fading Lands?

C.L. Wilson: Oh, yes.  I definitely intend to write their stories.  In fact, I’ve got three Fading Lands projects in the works right now – Bel’s book, a Melliandra short story/novella, and a 3rd full length novel about a Fey warrior and the mysterious Sief from the Pale (a tribal people we haven’t seen yet).   I’ve done some basic plotting for Gaelen’s book, and it’s on the To Be Written list as well, but I have yet to write a single scene.

TRC: ‘Happily claps hands’

TRC:  Would you like to share with us on what you are currently working and what else you have planned for the future?

C.L. Wilson: See above.  I’m also working on JAGUAR KING and in the planning stages for DRAGON KING.

TRC:  Would you like to tell our members and fans of The Fading Lands about your Tairen Soul Merchandise Line?

C.L. Wilson: Thanks for asking.  An artist friend of mine, the very talented wildlife artist, Heather Carr, have teamed up to offer art prints and other merchandise based on my books.  We sell at conventions, such as DragonCon, and I have an online store, www.tairenslair.com , where I sell prints of her art, plush toys and merchandise, as well as personalized autographed copies of my books.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

C.L. Wilson: I’d just like to thank every reader who continues to support me by buying my books, and for every reader who keeps asking me for the next story.  You have all kept me going even when things are difficult.  So thanks, sincerely, from the bottom of my heart. 

TRC: Thank you, Cheryl for giving us an update on “The Sea King”, as well as what we can look forward to in the future.   It was a pleasure having you visit us, we look forward to spreading the news on The Sea King.

 

 

 

 

Giveaway-mauve

C.L. Wilson’s publisher is generously offering a signed paper copy of THE WINTER KING (First book in series) to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

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

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

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

4. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

5. Like C.L. Wilson on Facebook for an additional entry.

6. Giveaway is open to USA/Canada only.

7. Giveaway runs from October 31 – November 4, 2017

 

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Dark Justice by Jenna Ryan – a Review

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Dark Justice by Jenna Ryan – a Review

 

Dark JusticeAmazon / B&N / Kobo / BAM / Book Depository

Description:
After attempting to help the FBI expose a ruthless weapons and drug dealer, Owen Fixx, Amber Kelly enters the Witness Protection Program. Unfortunately, her sister, who was once married to said drug dealer, is forced to join her—key word, forced. When Rachel grows tired of their new life and runs off with a local man, a nightmare ensues for Amber. The only person who can help her is Gage Morgan, an edgy former police officer. The mysterious and compelling Gage must convince Amber that he is not only on her side, but he is also her best bet to stay alive. Amber wants her sister back. What she doesn’t want is to be attracted to her sexy new protector. But in the haunted Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, desire trumps logic. And it leaves a smoldering trail for Fixx’s gunmen to follow.

 

Review: 

I liked Dark Justice by Jenna Ryan. It was fast paced and lots of action. The bullets fly and the body count is high.

Amber (previously known as Alexa) turned her boss ( Owen Fixx) into the FBI after finding out what he did for a living (drugs and arms dealer), but now the information the FBI had on him seems to have gone missing and she is the only one who can put him away. So for her own safety, she placed into witness protection and her sister (who is married to Owen) is forced to go with her. Somehow, they become compromised (money is a powerful tool) and her sister is kidnapped. Amber is determined to get her sister back, at any cost. 

Gage Morgan, a former cop, is brought in. Yes he likes a drink and his obsession with Elvis was funny, but in essence he’s a good guy with a hard past.  He has his work cut out for him though trying to convince Amber that he can be trusted. (It seems even people they trust can be bought). Together they set off to rescue her sister, which takes them on a road of twists and turns, whilst trying to outrun the bad guys (who keep multiplying due to the bounty on Amber’s head.) And just when you think they are safe …… BAM !!!!  Something else is thrown at them.

The secondary characters are great, as they were fun to read and I hope it’s not the last we hear from them.  They supported Gage and helped shape him into the man he is today. 

Most of the criminals are dealt with but the guy in charge (James Mockerie) escapes, so the epilogue makes me wonder if the author has another book in mind to capture him and bring him to justice.  Dark Justice was a very exciting story with a strange ending that left me wanting to know what happens next. 

Reviewed by Julie B.

Copy provided by Publisher

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Ready for Wild by Liora Blake – Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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Ready for Wild by Liora Blake – Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

 

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Ready for WildAmazon / B&N / Kobo / BAM / Book Depository

Description:
Braden Montgomery is certain about three things: one, luck is for suckers; two, time spent outdoors is what keeps him sane; and, three, when it comes to sharing his bed, there’s only one female he’s willing to put up with—his Chesapeake Bay retriever, Charley. Braden’s constructed his life on these beliefs, and he’s quite content with the status quo.

But when a moment of bad luck lands Braden toe-to-toe with a blonde bombshell with her own television show, his stubbornly structured reality begins to unravel.

As for Amber Regan, her brand has been built on camo, cut-offs, and cleavage. With her own hunting show on the foremost sports channel and enough social media followers to garner her plenty of endorsement deals, Amber’s come a long way from the tomboy in a small Texas town she once was. Unfortunately, ratings are down and her contract for next season is in limbo, so she’s in desperate need of a reboot to save her show—and filming a rough and tough archery elk hunt in Colorado might be the way to do just that. Too bad the local game warden grunts more than he speaks, seems determined to despise her—and makes her heart race in all the most inconvenient ways.

 

 

Review:

Ready for Wild by Liora Blake is the 3rd and final book in her Grand Valley series, and it reads very well as a standalone.  We met Braden Montgomery, our hero, previously, as he is a game warden, who hates hunters, especially those on TV.  Meet Amber Regan, our heroine, who is a tv star on a sports channel hunting show.  We know to be ready for the explosions.  🙂

Amber and her team come to Colorado to film an Elk hunt, as she is desperately trying to reboot her career.  When Braden is assigned to help Amber and her team, he is unhappy, and shows his feelings openly to them all.  However, Amber knows all about hunting, and is determined not to let a grumpy negative Braden ruin this project.  In a short time, Braden will feel a strong attraction to Amber, and does all he can to fight it off.  Amber is not only gorgeous, but she is overly friendly and outgoing, and uses her charms to try and get the loner Braden to be more sociable; not to mention she is enjoying watching the hunky game warden.

What follows is a slow built romance that becomes sizzling, as their chemistry together is off the wall.  In time, Braden begins to accept Amber’s profession and finds he is falling in love with her.  Amber is also falling hard for Braden, but she is desperate to get her career on track, and when things do not go her way, she looks at other alternatives, which Braden feels would be beneath  her.  Besides their hot romance, their constant bickering and banter was also fun.  They each had their own issues, which made a permanent relationship unlikely.  Braden knows he will lose Amber, and just when we are about to give up, things will change that will bring some surprises, and a wonderful happy ever after.

Ready for Wild was a fun entertaining romance, with an unlikely couple that won us over very quickly.  It was nice to watch a grumpy Braden, and the vivacious Amber rise above their differences, using their love of hunting and their combustible lust for each other. No question that this was a hot sexy story.  Liora Blake once again gives us another fun romance, that had a bit of everything, humorous, sensual, fun bantering and a sexy delightful couple.  We will all miss our visits to Grand Valley.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

excerpt

The entire room falls away, along with every anxiety, every question, every confusing thought I had. All that’s left behind is the two of us, intensely present and entirely vulnerable to whatever comes next between us. And I want Braden to decide what that might be, because I’m tired of taking the lead. I’ve made the first move more than once, and tonight, I don’t want to ply him or convince him, or have it feel like he’s simply succumbing to a craving he couldn’t control. It’s time for Braden to prove to me this isn’t one-sided by taking the reins, just so long as I know I’ll get them back at some point.
I caught a glimpse of the Braden I want earlier tonight, when the too-slick, too-skinny cowboy at the foundation dinner invaded a little too much of my space. Braden’s protective yet patient gaze was on me, and I wanted to wrap myself in that sensation, sink into the experience of being watched over without being hovered over. Braden didn’t storm over like a bull bent on drawing blood, or alpha his way in and deck the cowboy’s lights out, even when I was ready for him to do exactly that. He acted like a man, not a hotheaded kid, and I wanted that man—the one in possession of all that control and composure—to want me.
Braden moves to stand behind me. He draws my hair away from the side of my neck, placing a kiss to the sensitive skin behind my ear, then traces his fingertips to that same spot, and my entire body comes alive. Another sweep of my hair to the side, exposing the zipper on my dress, the one he could so easily yank down. Instead his hands land on my shoulders, fingers splayed wide so he can gently knead the muscles there. My eyes drift closed.
“I haven’t done this in a while,” he says.
Eyes still closed, my brow knits. This impromptu neck massage is diverting, but not so much that I don’t find what he just said a little surprising. Sure, Braden isn’t exactly a poster child or sociability, but he is hot. His looks alone could open a few bedroom doors, and anyone who bothers to peek under his surly Superman cape would find a man who never neglects to answer a text and sometimes checks his best friend’s forehead for sign of a fever. Add in that big, masculine body of his and the guy could easily get some if he wanted to, so there must be a reason why he’s been on hiatus.
Braden’s thumbs begin to work over deep knots near my shoulder blades that I didn’t know were there.
“Why has it been a while?”
He continues to knead until he feels my shoulders wilt in relief.
“I got burnt by an ex a few years back. I hadn’t met anyone worth the trouble since then. Until now.”
My curiosity doubles down on those last two words. “Why me?”
I’m not sure what it is I want him to say, so long as they aren’t trite words about how I look. From another man, that sort of desire might be enough, but with Braden I need something else.What, I’m not exactly sure. I just know I need more than the superficial.
Braden’s hands drop to my hips and he grips them firmly, pressing his groin to my backside.
“Because you make me feel like a goddam live wire. You’re in the room and I feel you. I don’t have to see you, even. Because you’re fucking everywhere. It puts my teeth on edge and sets my skin on fire. And I can’t get enough.”
He’d heard my thoughts. He had to—that’s the only explanation for his being able to say exactly what I needed to hear, yet couldn’t name for myself. I calm the urge to all but shout, Take me, sailor!—like some swoony matinee star from back in the day. Slowly, I turn in his grip and meet his heavy-lidded gaze, intent on kissing him or dropping to my knees, whatever feels right.
But Braden slinks one arm tight around my waist, trapping me in his grip so he can run his fingers across my mouth, his eyes fixed there so intensely my face heats under the lovely scrutiny. My lips
part a fraction, ready to speak or kiss or moan, I’m not sure which.
Braden continues to stare at my mouth. “Because it’s been a while for me, I need you to let me set the pace this time. Can you
do that?”
My chest begins to rise and fall raggedly. “Can we take turns after that?”
Braden’s face immediately cracks into a broad grin. One that’s wry and exasperated, but above all, charmed . . . charmed by me.
A slow shake of his head. “You couldn’t just say yes, could you?”
“You know you would have been disappointed if I had. I just want to be sure I get my turn. I want to drive you crazy, but in a good way.”
His grin fades, his eyes darken, and I find myself tossed over his shoulder before I can even act like I might object.
“Fucking live wire,” he mutters, striding down the hallway and ducking when we make it to the doorway, flipping on a light switch at the same time. Braden sets me back on my feet near a single nightstand next to an enormous bed.
The room itself isn’t huge, so the bed takes up most of it. The frame is gray-stained pine trimmed with black wrought iron, and if I didn’t know better, I’d think it was one of Trey’s designs because it’s industrial-looking and impossible to ignore. The nightstand holds a tower of books and an alarm clock, and there’s a grocery-store bag tossed there, partially open to reveal its contents.
Condoms. Good man, Braden.
I waste no time after that, reaching for him with a tug while trying to work his belt open and yank his shirt off all at the same time. Braden’s hands swoop in and latch on to mine, letting out a low rumble as he spins me to face the other direction, still somehow able to keep my wrists in his loose but commanding grip.
His lips meet the crown of my head, whispering, “My pace. We agreed.”

 

 

Giveaway white and rose

Liora Blake’s publisher is offering a paper copy of READY FOR WILD to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

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

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7. Giveaway is open to USA only

8. Giveaway runs from October 30 to November 3, 2017

 

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The Hunt ( A Hard Love Romance #3) by Monica James-Review & Excerpt Tour

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The Hunt (A Hard Love Romance #3) by Monica James-Review & Excerpt Tour

The Hunt BANNER2

THE HUNT
Hard Love Romance #3
by Monica James
Release Date: October 30,2017
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance

The Hunt

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

About the book: Release Date October 30, 2017

My name is Hunter O’Shea and I have a confession to make…I’ve met a girl who consumes me. I know that makes me sound completely whipped, but Mary “Lamb” Mitts has the power to bring me to my knees…it’s just too bad she hates my guts. But that’s okay, because I hate hers, too. The fiery redhead stirs something in me that I can’t explain.

This temporary insanity could be due to the fact my best friend, who used to be a bigger player than me, is getting married. That must be it. I’m caught up in an Oprah moment.

The only solution is to get back in the game and forget she exists. That theory is great—too bad I don’t want anyone else.

I…just…want…her.

I’m so screwed.

••••••••••

REVIEW: THE HUNT is the third instalment in Monica James’ contemporary, adult HARD LOVE ROMANCE erotic, romance series. This is financial investor Hunter O’Shea, and interior design student Mary Mitts’ story line. THE HUNT can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Mary and Hunter were first introduced in the first two instalments Dirty Dix and Wicked Dix. Mary is Madison’s BFF, and Hunter is Dr. Dixon Mathews best friend.

Told from dual first person points of view (Mary and Hunter) THE HUNT focuses on the contemptuous and anger filled relationship between financial investor Hunter O’Shea, and waitress/interior designer Mary Mitts. Mary and Hunter’s hate-filled, visceral and verbal exchanges masks a heightened sexual energy that is barely contained in one another’s presence. Seeing something beyond the angry façade Dixon Mathews makes a suggestion that places Mary in the direct line of fire as it pertains to the man that she barely tolerates. What ensues is the slow building but acrimonious relationship between our leading couple, and the fall out as betrayal and jealousy destroy what was never meant to be.

THE HUNT is an emotional, intense and heart breaking story line about two people whose sexual histories are as diverse and different as night and day. Hunter is a manwhore whose reputation precedes his introduction to our story line heroine-a reputation that Mary takes to heart. Hunter doesn’t do relationships; has never fallen in love but something about Mary calls to his soul, a soul he believes isn’t worthy of a happily ever after. Mary’s only boyfriend destroyed her faith in men and her trust in love but her attraction Hunter is palpable and confusing knowing he is the last man she should ever hope to fall in love.

The relationship between Mary and Hunter is one of mutual animosity tethered by a mutual attraction that burns hot and electric. Their antagonistic love /hate dual does not go unnoticed by everyone concerned; it makes for some uncomfortable moments as Madison and Dixon’s wedding day approaches. The $ex scenes are erotic, intense and provocative but the lack of trust and miscommunication between our leading couple is frustrating and powerful. My only complaint is the over-use of a certain four-letter word that I do not find conducive or necessary in a romance story line.

We are re-introduced to Dr. Dixon Mathews and his fiancé Madison (Dirty Dix / Wicked Dix), as well as their mutual friendship with Finch and Heidi. The introduction of fellow investor Aaron Gail, and his PA Keira Celly adds the requisite evil that heightens the betrayal and jealousy between our leading couple.

THE HUNT is a story about one woman unable to let go of the past; and one man’s inability to let go of his heart. The premise is engaging, edgy and intense; the characters are edgy, spirited and flawed; the romance is emotional, dramatic and passionate. My only complaint- the language is graphic and course including the use of a certain four-letter word as I mentioned above.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Dirty Dix (formerly Addicted to Sin)
Wicked Dix
The Hunt

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

The Hunt Teaser

Excerpt

 

Something is happening and I have no idea what. Mary’s eyes drop to my lips before she uneasily licks hers. Her flushed cheeks, dilated pupils, and heavy breathing all point to one thing—but that’s not possible. This woman hates me, all delicious, lithe five-foot-four of her wants me dead.
So why is she not slapping my cheeks and calling me a dirty manwhore when I inch closer to her lips? And why am I not slamming on the brakes because I don’t kiss—ever, but that rule seems to be obsolete when the supplest pair of lips are a hairs breadth away?
I’m rolling in her perfume. Slathering it all over my body and inhaling it like a new drug. She is all goddess, and if I don’t touch her, I’m going to explode.
Placing my palm to her cheek, we both moan at the contact, and when she parts those lips, I’m as good as gone. “Hunter, wh-what are you doing?”
My name has never sounded sweeter. “Shortcake, I don’t know…you tell me.” The ball is in her court. I’m liquefying and my brain turned to mush about fifteen minutes ago, so I’m in no state to be the one calling the shots.
“I…I…” she fumbles, never breaking eye contact.
“You what?” I ask, tugging at the lobe of her ear, before tracing my pointer down her throat. Her pulse is hammering, a sure sign she’s about to either surrender, or flee.
“I…oh god,” she whimpers, biting her lip when I work my finger back up and paint over her jawline in a slow sweep.
“You have three seconds…three seconds to stop me before I part those lips with my tongue, and I won’t be gentle about it.”

 

About The Author

Monica James

Monica James spent her youth devouring the works of Anne Rice, William Shakespeare, and Emily Dickinson.

When she is not writing, Monica is busy running her own business, but she always finds a balance between the two. She enjoys writing honest, heartfelt, and turbulent stories, hoping to leave an imprint on her readers. She draws her inspiration from life.

She is a bestselling author in the U.S., Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Israel, and the U.K.

Monica James resides in Melbourne, Australia, with her wonderful family, and menagerie of animals. She is slightly obsessed with cats, chucks, and lip gloss, and secretly wishes she was a ninja on the weekends.

Facebook: facebook.com/authormonicajames
Twitter: twitter.com/monicajames81
Goodreads: goodreads.com/MonicaJames
Instagram: @MonicaJames
Website: monicajamesbooks.blogspot.com.au
Pinterest: pinterest.com/monicajames81

 

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Cloaked in Sorcery by T.F. Walsh – a Review

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Cloaked in Sorcery by T.F. Walsh – a Review

 

Cloaked in SorceryAmazon / B&N / Kobo / BAM

Description:
Kalin Asen wants to be the best fortune-teller at the infamous Bran Castle in Transylvania this Halloween.  It should be a no-brainer…until she crosses paths with a sexy Russian wulfkin who just might be her soul mate.  But no way in hell would her fate lie with someone who wants her pack dead.  Her mission morphs into a single focus:  ignore her uncontrollable urges and stay alive.

As the commander of the Russian wulfkin army, Axe Vuk takes seriously his assignment to get Bran Castle’s ownership signed over to his alpha.  But considering the building isn’t actually for sale, he engages a witch to hex everyone into losing their inhibitions in hopes of getting the owner to accept his offer.  Then he meets Kalin, and it’s impossible to tell if his growing attraction is a result of the spell or whether she is truly his mate.

When the night takes a deadly turn and this team loses control of their inner wolves, it’s a race against time to stop them from chomping down on every human in the castle.  Will Kalin and Axe survive long enough to discover the truth behind their primal passions?

 

 

Review:

Did you read the blurb above about Cloaked in Sorcery??  There is so much that happens in this story that I don’t even know how to describe it without having a spoiler alert explosion.  If you like your books to have gutsy, independent, intelligent female characters and steamy, sexy alpha males then T.F. Walsh will become one of your favorite authors.  And let’s not forget about the page turning action, suspense and intrigue that pulls you along as you read every word.  Her imagination and writing skills are unbelievable. I’ve read several books in the Wulfkin series and they have never been boring or repetitive. 

Kalin and Axe are the latest in the Wulfkin world to meet under stressful circumstances.  The attraction is there immediately, their wolves have recognized the other as their soulmate.  But Kalin knows Axe is a strange Wulfkin.  Why is he there? Is he the enemy? 

How can she have such an attraction for someone that could be there to kill her pack?  But how can she resist him, especially when the very first words he speaks to her are, “My head’s telling me to toss you over the wall.  But my wolf’s demanding I devour you.”  *SWOON*  What a great pick up line.

Axe is also knocked off his manly, wolfie feet when he meets Kalin.  He doubts the attraction is sincere due to the witch’s hex, but he can’t fight it.  He is trying to remain tough and stay focused on his mission, but he is crumbling under Kalin’s spell.  Cloaked in Sorcery is another fantastic Wulfkin adventure, and as always, I’m left impatiently waiting for the next T.F. Walsh book.

Reviewed by Tricia

Copy supplied for review

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The Deathbrew Affair by Nancy Northcott-a review

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THE DEATHBREW AFFAIR (The Lethal Webs #1) by Nancy Northcott-a review

 

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ABOUT THE BOOK : Release Date September 30, 2017

The Deathbrew Affair: Lethal Webs #1
(The Lethal Webs series features two spies, ten adventures, and one steamy romance.)

He’s the King of Control Freaks.
I’m the Queen of Winging It.
Together, we’ll save the world….
Unless we kill each other first.

I’m Casey Billings, an American operative in the London office of a covert, multinational agency. I’m working with an MI5 officer, Jack, Lord Bainbridge, to bring down a bioterrorist who plans to unleash a pandemic. We’re posing as newlyweds to infiltrate the community that’s a cover for the bioweapons operation. Unfortunately, we don’t play well together, and not only because of Jack’s distracting, off-the- scales hotness.

I grew up poor in a mill town, and he’s an aristocrat with more money than a third-world country. Besides that, I fly by the seat of my pants while Jack lives by his plans for every contingency and takes charge of everything. Including me. Or so he thinks.

Basically, we’d like to strangle each other. But we have a pandemic to stop first.
Then all bets are off.

••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE DEATHBREW AFFAIR is the first instalment in Nancy Northcott’s contemporary, adult THE LETHAL WEBS romantic, suspense series focusing on American Operative Casey Billings, and MI5 agent Jack, Lord Bainbridge.

Told from first person point of view (Casey Billings) THE DEATHBREW AFFAIR follows the contemptuous relationship between American operative Casey Billings, and MI5 agent Jack aka Lord Bainbridge as they are paired together in a multi-national undercover operation battling time, a potential pandemic, biological terrorism, and one another. Lord Bainbridge comes from royalty and represents everything Casey Billings hates and loathes but pretending to be a married couple throws Casey into the deep end of a family embattled in their own quagmire with several questionable business proposals including a possible connection to Jack and Casey’s current investigation. What ensues is the fake marriage to lovers trope that focuses on the take down and recovery of a biological weapon; the slow building love relationship between Casey and Jack, and the potential fall out as the players in a game of international bioterrorism begin releasing their product a little at a time.

THE DEATHBREW AFFAIR is an intriguing, engaging and exciting story line of family, partnership, power and greed. Lord Bainbridge is a take charge kinda of man; a MI5 agent who requires order and control, and Casey Billings’ impulsive and carefree behavior wreaks havoc in our hero’s well ordered plans. While Casey struggles with the memories of a mission gone wrong; Jack is desperate to convince Casey that what happened remains in the past. The premise intense and moving; the characters are colorful, sassy and passionate; the romance is a slow build to a potential partnership in the future. Nancy Northcott’s THE DEATHBREW AFFAIR is an energetic, action packed, and thrilling introduction to the author’s THE LETHAL WEBS series.

Copy supplied by Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

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