Monthly Archives: September 2018

Rebel Hard (Hard Play #2) by Nalini Singh-a review

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REBEL HARD (Hard Play #2) by Nalini Singh-a review

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About the Book: Release Date September 18, 2018

Nayna Sharma agreed to an arranged marriage in the hope it would heal the fractures in her beloved family… only to realize too late that a traditional marriage is her personal nightmare. Panicked, she throws caution to the winds, puts on the tiniest dress she can find, and ends up in the arms of a tall, rough-edged hunk of a man who has abs of steel—and who she manages to mortally insult between one kiss and the next.

Abandoned as a child, then adopted into a loving family, Raj Sen believes in tradition, in continuity. Some might call him stiff and old-fashioned, but he knows what he wants—and it’s a life defined by rules… yet he can’t stop thinking about the infuriating and sexy woman who kissed him in the moonlight then disappeared. When his parents spring an introduction on him, the last woman he expects is her. Beautiful. Maddening. A rulebreaker in the making.

He’s all wrong for her. She’s all wrong for him. And love is about to make rebels of them both.

••••••••••

REVIEW: REBEL HARD is the second instalment in Nalini Singh’s contemporary, adult HARD PLAY romance series- spin off from the author’s Rock Kiss series. This is twenty-eight year old, accountant Nayna Sharma, and twenty-seven year old, construction worker/builder Raj Sen’s story line. REBEL HARD can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. Some of the events of REBEL HARD run parallel to, and cross-over with book one Cherish Hard.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Raj and Nayna) REBEL HARD follows the building relationship between twenty-eight year old accountant Nayna Sharma, and twenty-seven year old construction worker/builder Raj Sen. Having met at a mutual friend’s party Raj and Nayna were unaware that their traditional, Indian backgrounds were about to collide. For weeks, Nayna’s parents have set up several meetings with prospective grooms in an effort to arrange a marriage for their single daughter. Having born the brunt of shame her elder sister’s affair placed on the family Nayna is having nothing to do with the time honoured tradition but outdated ‘arranged marriage’ her parents are desperate to achieve. Enter Raj Sen, the man she met and accosted on a previous occasion, and the man with whom Nayna will fall in love. What ensues is the building relationship between Nayna and Raj, and the potential fall-out as Nayna battles between head and heart, and her need to remain independent in spite of her love and attraction to Raj Sen.

Nayna Sharma wants to do it all-travel the world, explore new places, experience the life she has always dreamed but her parents have other plans for their daughter, including an arrange marriage to a man of their choice. Raj Sen is a successful contractor and builder, and has always dreamt of marriage, children with a stay at home wife-traditional, old school marriage to a woman who lives to serve her husband and family but times have changed, and so too have the women in his life including the woman with whom he has fallen in love. Neither family is above using guilt or shame in their attempts to force a marriage between our leading couple.

The relationship between Raj and Nayna is one of immediate attraction tempered by their dual virginities and family responsibilities. Making time for themselves, Raj and Nayna will go behind their family’s backs to explore the world of dating, and falling in love. The $ex scenes are sweet, intimate and passionate, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

The colorful secondary and supporting characters including Raj and Nayna’s best friends Sailor Bishop and Isa Rain (Cherish Hard #1), as well as both of their meddling but meant well families.

REBEL HARD is a story of family, tradition, understanding and rebellion. The premise is spirited and realistic; the romance is tender and emotional; the characters are charismatic and energetic.

Just a heads up, as the story line focuses on Middle Eastern and Indian values, some of the language and text may be unfamiliar.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one-CHERISH HARD

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Nalini Singh is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Psy-Changeling, Guild Hunter, and Rock Kiss series. She lives and works in beautiful New Zealand, and is passionate about writing.

If you’d like to explore her other books, you can find lots of excerpts and free short stories on her website. Slave to Sensation is the first book in the Psy-Changeling series, while Angels’ Blood is the first book in the Guild Hunter series. 

STALK HER:  Website | Facebook |  Instagram  |  Twitter | Goodreads

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More than Crave You (More than Words #4) by Shayla Black-Review & Excerpt Tour

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MORE THAN CRAVE YOU (More Than Words #4) by Shayla Black-Review & Excerpt tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 18, 2018

I’m Evan Cook—billionaire tech entrepreneur and widower. Professionally, I’ve got it all. But since my wife died, my personal life has fallen apart. Remarrying seems like the obvious answer, so I place an ad. I’m not asking for much. The ideal woman only needs to be smart, organized, pretty, and helpful—both in and out of bed—without expecting romance. I never thought to look right in front of me…but it turns out that Nia Wright, my sexy, sassy assistant, just might be the perfect candidate.

After an unexpectedly hot night together, I’m ready to stop interviewing strangers and simply marry her. On paper, she ticks every box on my list. Best of all, she’s far too sensible to fall for me. I didn’t see the flaw in my logic until it was too late. I never thought I’d lose my heart for the first time. And I definitely never imagined Nia could consume me. But she’s harboring a secret that could tear us apart. Can I prove I more than crave her before it’s too late?

••••

REVIEW: MORE THAN CRAVE YOU is the fourth instalment in Shayla Black’s contemporary, adult MORE THAN WORDS erotic, romance series. This is billionaire tech entrepreneur and widower Evan Cook, and PA Nia Wright’s story line. MORE THAN CRAVE YOU can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and cohesion as there is a continuing theme throughout focusing on the dysfunctional family dynamic of the Reed /Cook siblings.

Told from first person point of view (Evan) with one final chapter from Nia, MORE THAN CRAVE YOU follows the friends to lovers, unrequited love, marriage of convenience between billionaire tech entrepreneur and widower Evan Cook, and PA Nia Wright. Four months earlier Evan Cook lost his wife and unborn child to a car accident and in the ensuing months has lost his way. Hoping to find a ‘wife’ to take care of his personal and private affairs Evan asks his long suffering PA Nia Wright to place an ad looking for a wife. Unaware of Nia’s attraction to and affection for Evan, our hero continues to focus on the needs of a man more than romance and love. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Nia and Evan, and the potential fall-out as Evan is unable to open his heart to the possibility of love and a happily ever after, and the belief that Nia is not the woman she appears to be.

Nia Wright is a successful and resourceful woman who never knew her father but was raised by a strong and beautiful woman who never lost faith in love. Having fallen in love with Evan Cook, Nia hopes for her own happily ever after but our hero remains reluctant for anything more than wanting a woman for a housewife and sex. Evan grew up in the foster care system and married the girl he rescued when young. Upon her death Evan found himself lost when it came to his home life including the basics of laundry and cleaning, a questionable result of growing up in the foster care system. Hoping to find a woman willing to cook and clean, Evan doesn’t see past his immediate needs including the woman with whom he will fall in love.

Meanwhile, the Colossus Investment Corporation, a large corporation headed by Douglas and his son Stephen Lund are hoping to buy Stratus Solutions from our story line hero but their offer of a billion dollars comes with several stipulations including the recruitment and continuing employment of Nia Wright. Throughout the story there is much back and forth regarding the buy-out offer, including the real reason Douglas Lund is so desperate for control of Stratus Solutions.

The relationship between Nia and Evan is a friends to lovers, unrequited love, marriage of convenience affair between two people whose views of marriage and love follow different paths and differing beliefs. Unable to let go of the past Evan claims to never want to fall in love while Nia wants love, family and so much more. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and passionate.

All of the previous story line couples play secondary and supporting roles including Evan’s half siblings Maxon, Griff and Harlow. We are introduced to Evan’s best friend and CFO Sebastian Shaw who drops a bombshell that will change Evan’s life; financial investor Douglas Lund and his son Stephen, as well as Nia’s friends Lorenzo, Guilia, and Kyle.

MORE THAN CRAVE YOU is a story of family, friendship, secrets and lies, letting go and falling in love. There are a few twists and turns that you won’t see coming including more fall-out and revelations about the man who sired the Cook/Reed siblings. The character driven premise is provocative and emotional; the romance is seductive and erotic; the characters are stubborn, spirited and realistic. MORE THAN CRAVE YOU is a hopeful and energetic story.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
More than Want You
More Than Need You
More Than Love You
More Than Crave You

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

NOTE: The excerpt is intended for readers 18+ due to language and sexual content

I charge down the hall toward what might be the stupidest mistake of my life.
I move through the sea of bodies, shrugging past the Latina dancer, a few of the French maids, then bump into my assistant’s handsy dance partner. I stare him down. He looks at me blankly. One thing I realize instantly? My gaydar is absolutely silent. He’s every bit as straight as I am.
As he hovers protectively around Nia’s dressing room, I snarl and shoulder my way past him.
He grabs my arm. “Where do you think you’re going?”
“To see Nia. Let go.”
His eyes narrow. “Is she expecting you?”
No. In fact, I’m about to shock the hell out of her. I don’t know if I’ll be unwelcome, but I’m going to test Bas’s theory that she wants me. If he’s right…this could get messy really fast.
I shake him off, barrel inside the room, and shut the door. Behind me, I immediately hear the asshole jimmying the knob. I throw my weight against the portal to keep him out and lock it behind me.
Nia whirls to the sound of my intrusion, dressed in an inch of stage makeup, a silky white robe—and nothing else.
The moment she recognizes me, her mouth drops open. Shock spreads across her face. “E-Evan?”
“Nia.” I can’t find more words. I can’t do anything except stare and put one foot in front of the other. I certainly can’t defuse the anger and possessiveness I know I have no right to feel.
“What are you doing here?”
“That’s my question for you,” I growl. “Why the fuck are you taking your clothes off for strangers?”
She rears back and blinks at me. I don’t think she’s ever heard me curse. I keep the office professional, totally aboveboard. But I can’t manage decorum now when she’s breathing hard and her nipples are poking her thin robe.
She raises her chin and glares at me. Everything about her demeanor is like waving a red cape in front of a bull.
“It’s burlesque, not stripping,” she snaps. “I don’t do this for money. I do it because I enjoy dancing.”
“Yeah? You enjoy that asshole’s hands all over you, too?” Even though the logical side of my brain tells me I’m way out of line, I point at the door behind me and stalk closer to her. “You enjoy sex standing up with him?”
Her nostrils flare. Her mouth presses into a firm line. “Last time I checked, boss, I don’t have to justify my personal life to you.”
The fact she’s right only pisses me off more. “You do when your behavior reflects badly on Stratus Solutions.”
She shoots me a quelling glare. “You’ll have to do better than that. No one in the audience knows who I am. I never take off my mask and I never use my real name. Nothing I do on stage can taint your reputation.” Arms crossed over her chest, she saunters closer. “Why don’t you be honest and tell me what’s really bothering you? I know you’re not this mad simply because I was dressed a little risqué and gyrated on stage with Kyle?”
I debate the wisdom of blurting the truth. The rational part of my brain tells me to shut up, leave, and act on Monday like nothing happened tonight. Every other part of me knows that ship has sailed. My cock is especially eager to lay my cards on the table, grab Nia in my arms…and not worry about what happens next.
“You’re right. I’m mad because I think you’ve fucked him.”
She jerks as if I’ve slapped her. “Not that it’s any of your business, but we haven’t been together in almost two years. Thanks for letting me know you think I’m a whore.”
Hearing I was right royally pisses me off. Having her put words in my mouth kills what’s left of my patience, stripping away anything resembling professional civility.
I try not to squeeze her arms as I drag her close. “I never said that. Or thought it. I’m telling you that I can’t stand knowing he’s touched you. I don’t like the fact you still have anything to do with him. I don’t even understand why I’m here yelling and angry. I’m just…”
How the hell do I put the storm raging inside me into words? No clue, but I need to get it all out somehow or I’m going to explode.
“Jealous?” Soft surprise crosses her face.
Something about her confusion rips the confession from me. “Yes.”
“Because you…want me?”
I grit my teeth and try again to think through the wisdom of spilling all this to her. But I can’t keep it in. The softness of warm silk and hot woman under my palms almost undoes me. “Yes. I know I shouldn’t. I’ve spent forty-eight hours telling myself what I’m feeling is ridiculous and I can’t allow this—whatever it is—into our perfectly comfortable, efficient working relationship. But I can’t turn it off. I can’t fight it. I can’t pretend it doesn’t exist.”
“Is that what you’d rather do? Bury your head in the sand and not feel it?” She looks hurt.
Her expression makes me feel like an asshole. Nia always asks insightful questions. Why should now be different?
I shake my head. “For the first time in months—maybe years—I feel alive.”
Nia stares at me in silence, her gaze fused to mine. I swear I see a hundred thoughts whip through her head. For once, I can’t read a single one.
“Say something.” If she doesn’t soon, I don’t know what I’ll do. I don’t even know if I can be responsible for what happens next.
“Have you been drinking?”
“Not enough to drown out how much I want you.”
“In spite of your opinion about my sexual past? And what about our working relationship?”
She’s not wrong, but they’re barbed questions. I have to maneuver around them carefully. “Nothing matters to me except touching you right now.”
Before Nia can chew on my answer and remember all the reasons she should say no, I pull her against me. She gasps. The instant her soft body makes contact with my hard, aching cock, I groan and hold her tighter, cupping her face and lowering my mouth to her parted lips.

Shayla Black is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than forty novels. For over fifteen years, she’s written contemporary, erotic, paranormal, and historical romances via traditional, independent, foreign, and audio publishers. Her books have sold well over a million copies and been published in a dozen languages.

Raised an only child, Shayla occupied herself with lots of daydreaming, much to the chagrin of her teachers. In college, she found her love for reading and realized that she could have a career publishing the stories spinning in her imagination. Though she graduated with a degree in Marketing/Advertising and embarked on a stint in corporate America to pay the bills, her heart has always been with her characters. She’s thrilled that she’s been living her dream as a full-time author for the past seven years.

Shayla currently lives in North Texas with her wonderfully supportive husband, her teenage daughter, and a very spoiled cat. In her “free” time, she enjoys reality TV, reading, and listening to an eclectic blend of music.

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Justice for Hope (Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #12) by Susan Stoker-Review Tour

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JUSTICE FOR HOPE (Badge of Honor:Texas Heroes #12) by Susan Stoker-Review Tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 18, 2018

Hiding from her ex is exhausting enough, but for Hope Drayden, putting her seven-year-old son through a life on the run and living on the streets has been mentally torturous. When a kind diner owner offers her a job, Hope begins to claw her way toward a new beginning for herself and Billy, one tip at a time. But since her son’s recent abduction, and with threats from her ex still fresh in her mind, she’s constantly looking over her shoulder. Then a surprising, and lucky, tip from a diner regular puts yet another target on their backs.

At the request of a friend, medical examiner Calder Stonewall has been looking for Hope and Billy for weeks. When they unexpectedly show up at the scene of a crime, his interest soon becomes personal. He’s amazed by the beautiful, brave woman and her resilient son. He’s also surprised by his growing need to take care of them both, although winning Hope’s trust won’t be easy. But when a tragedy thrusts the couple together, Calder quickly proves he’s a man Hope can rely on.

Which is a good thing…because she’ll need all his support, and love, to get through a threat they never saw coming.

•••••••••

REVIEW: JUSTICE FOR HOPE is the twelfth instalment in Susan Stoker’s contemporary, adult BADGE OF HONOR: TEXAS HEROES romantic suspense series. This is forty-year old medical examiner Calder Stonewall, and thirty-two year old diner waitress/single mother Hope Drayden’s story line. JUSTICE FOR HOPE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Hope was first introduced in SHELTER FOR BLYTHE book #11.

Told from dual third person points of view (Calder and Hope) JUSTICE FOR HOPE follows the building relationship and romance between forty-year old medical examiner Calder Stonewall, and thirty-two year old diner waitress/single mother Hope Drayden. Single mother Hope Drayden and her seven-year old Billy are on the run from an abusive ex who isn’t above threatening our story line heroine. With no friends or family to whom to turn, Hope finds herself in the town of San Antonio, Texas where she struggles to earn enough money to support her small family. Several months earlier Billy Drayden was kidnapped by pedophile Jonathan Jones, and in the ensuing time has not spoken a word or communicated verbally. But the recent death of a homeless veteran finds our heroine face to face with her future in the guise of medical examiner Calder Stonewall, a man sent to look for Hope by her friend Blythe Coopman. What ensues is the slow building relationship and romance between Hope and Calder, and the potential fall-out as jealousy and betrayal attempt to destroy Hope’s precarious hold on life.

As a waitress, Hope depends upon the generosity of customers but the jealousy of fellow co-workers threatens Hope’s hard fought need to stay one step ahead of her abusive past. Calder Stonewall has been attracted to Hope from the very start but our heroine is reluctant to trust any man with her heart as well as the safety of her son.

The relationship between Hope and Calder is slow to develop as Calder bides his time with the woman who has stolen his heart. The limited $ex scenes are passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters, many of whom cross over from the author’s other series. We are introduced to Hope’s boss, and diner owner Joseph Roberts who takes Hope’s son Billy under his wing; as well as fellow co-workers and waitresses Donna, Audrey, Hannah and Tori.

The world building focuses on the building relationship and trust between Hope and Calder, and the struggles of a single mom trying to make it on her own. Most if not all of Susan’s heroes are impossibly perfect, and the women in their lives have physical and emotional issues that have left lasting scars.

JUSTICE FOR HOPE is an engaging, entertaining and romantic storyline. The premise is touching; the romance is intimate; the characters are real and tender.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author, Susan Stoker has a heart as big as the state of Texas where she lives, but this all-American girl has also spent the last fourteen years living in Missouri, California, Colorado, and Indiana. She’s married to a retired Army man who now gets to follow her around the country.

She debuted her first series in 2014 and quickly followed that up with the SEAL of Protection Series, which solidified her love of writing and creating stories readers can get lost in.

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Life on the Leash by Victoria Schade – Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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Life on the Leash by Victoria Schade – a Review

 

 

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Description:
Cora Bellamy is a woman who thrives on organization. She’s successfully run her own dog training business for years, perfectly content with her beloved rescue pitbull as the main man in her life. She’s given everything to her business, and her lack of social life (or slobber-free clothes) has been completely worth it.

But all that changes when she meets Charlie Gill, the hottest client she’s ever had. The only problem? Charlie’s taken. Luckily, Cora has a new friend—the sweet, lovably geeky Eli Crawford. More loyal than a retriever, he’s always there to help Cora with her problems, including her love life. That’s why she’s shocked to realize that even as things start heating up with Charlie, there might just be a more-than-friends spark between her and Eli, too.

As Cora’s life gets more tangled up than a dogwalker’s leashes—and as she prepares to audition for a dog-training TV show that may irrevocably change her entire life—she has to figure things out before it all goes straight to the dogs.

Charming, witty, and warm-hearted, Life on the Leash inspires you to cheer for every underdog looking for love.

Review:

Life on the Leash by Victoria Schade is a standalone romantic comedy that centers on dogs, and the dog trainer.  Cora Bellamy, our heroine, owns her own dog training business for years.   I did not know what to expect, but I am happy to say this was a fun, humorous storyline, with lovable dogs and a sweet romance.

We meet Cora immediately as she is with her own dog, Fritz (a pit bull), and is rushing to be on time for one of her training sessions.   We get to meet many of Cora’s clients, many of whom have money, but have no idea how to treat or take care of their dogs.  Some of the things Cora trains them on are basic, and others are great tips dog owners can use.  Some of the things that happen are funny, but there are a number of things that are terrible; which makes Cora occasionally try to secretly help the dogs.  Cora is a wonderful heroine, who loves her job, as well as loves all dogs. 

Cora has not found a man in her life, but in a short time she will meet two totally different men that will change this.  She finds herself very attracted to one of her clients, Charlie, who has a girlfriend, who is also in on training their dog; but when the girlfriend is out of town, Charlie begins to make advances on Cora.   She also meets Eli, who becomes a friend that always finds time to help Cora with the dogs. 

In the midst of this fun story surrounded by dogs, laughter & romance, Cora is offered a chance to do a tv show on Dog Training.  When she does an audition, she ends up as one of the top 3 candidates.  Will Cora be the chosen one?

I loved Cora, who was such a sweet lovable character, who despite any mishaps or concerns, she never backed down or gave up.  Cora was a great hero to all dogs.   I did enjoy some of the secondary characters created by Schade. If you love dogs, humor, a bit of romance, then Life on the Leash is a book you should be reading.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

“Charlie’s on the way,” Madison volunteered. “He called and apologized for being late—he really wants to help with Oliver’s training. I mean, he better help. Oliver was his idea. I’ve never even had a dog before . . . Charlie doesn’t know it, but I’m really more of a cat person.”
“Maybe Oliver will help you be both,” Cora replied, starting to understand the scope of what she would be dealing with. She fretted that she’d eventually have to snake charm the woman into liking her in order for them to successfully complete the program. But for now, she focused on the dog, knowing that a puppy could blur the hard edges of even the most disagreeable clients.
So his name is Charlie. Cora checked Madison’s left hand. Bare. Pretending to be a puppy person to lock down old Charlie?
Oliver stopped jumping on Cora long enough to find just the right spot to pee, and Cora chanted “Hurry up, hurry up,” to him. She turned to Madison. “I like ‘hurry up,’ but do you already have a potty phrase?”
“A what?”
Cora started to explain how a simple phrase can become a Pavlovian trigger to get a dog to eliminate but was interrupted by the French doors opening to reveal the most gorgeous man she’d ever seen. Cora suddenly understood why Madison would lie about being a dog person.
He was Cora’s kryptonite: tall, broad shouldered, with short sandy hair that swooped in a way that looked styled but not fussy. He radiated the kind of kick-in-the-gut good looks that made both women and men stare. He wasn’t “pretty” but arresting. Manly, like he’d be at home chopping wood in a flannel shirt, even though he was wearing an expensive-looking suit.
There’s got to be something wrong with him, Cora thought, steeling herself to remain professional. Aside from the fact that he’s dating someone who doesn’t like dogs.
He strode over toward Cora with his hand outstretched. “Hi, you must be Cora. I’m Charlie Gill. Sorry I’m late. Can you believe that I hit traffic at lunchtime?” His ruddy cheeks and quick smile unnerved Cora.
Cora met his grip with a firm handshake and did her best to hide her immediate and unprofessional attraction to her new client.
“Nice to meet you, and I totally understand the traffic. It runs my life—I could tell you stories!” Cora said, smiling her biggest “I’ll blind you with my teeth so you don’t notice that I’m not wearing makeup” smile. She hoped that he hadn’t heard the tremor in her voice or noticed the bright red splotches she could feel blooming on her cheeks.
Oliver rushed over and jumped up on Charlie. “There’s my little guy!” He laughed and leaned over to pet his puppy. Charlie’s voice went up. “Are you the best puppy in the world? Yes you are! Why, yes you are, little Ollie-by-golly!”
“I know this is going to sound totally bitchy, but can we get started?” Madison asked. “I have a one o’clock meeting.”
“Of course! Sorry about that,” Cora replied, embarrassed that she wasn’t more on top of the lesson and avoiding looking directly at Charlie. She usually controlled the progression of the hour with a conductor’s fluidity, but she had a feeling that the Perry-Gill household wasn’t going to be business as usual.

 

Victoria Schade is an author, speaker and dog trainer known for her upbeat approach to living and working with dogs. She’s published two books, “Bonding With Your Dog; A Trainer’s Secrets for Building a Better Relationship” and “Secrets of a Dog Trainer: Positive Problem Solving for a Well-Behaved Dog.” LIFE ON THE LEASH is her first novel.

She’s a frequent resource for the media, including the CBS Early Show, The View, WEtv, and FOX. Victoria has been featured in The Washington Post, Martha Stewart Living, Real Simple Magazine, Reader’s Digest, The Bark, and many dog-specific publications. She currently serves as a pet expert for petMD and PawCulture, writing training and behavior content and appearing in educational videos.

 

 

Victoria Schade’s publisher is offering a paper copy of LIFE ON THE LEASH to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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

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

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

3. Please follow VICTORIA SCHADE on Facebook.

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

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

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

7. Giveaway open to USA only

8. Giveaway runs from September 18 -22, 2018

 

 

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The Siren Connection by M.A. Abraham – a Review

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The Siren Connection by M.A. Abraham – a Review

 

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Description:
The oceans of Tantalus are teaming with Aquarians, the dangerous, predatory mammals that feed off anything that lands in their territory. What is strange about them is that they are avoiding the part of the ocean, close to the shoreline where Trysuil is planning to build the city of learning for the future generations. His question is, why this area? What is keeping them at bay?

As the water is no place for a winged man, Kyllan turns to his friends, the Sirens. They will soon get to the bottom of this, but it will come at a cost to the Tantalarians. The Sirens take one look at Tantalus and the sight of all that water feels like home. The home they knew on Mars never called to them in the same way and they know it is time to move on.

 

Review:

The Siren Connection by M.A. Abraham is a novella that is part of her Tantalus series. The Siren Connection continues the story of the Sirens from Mars moving to Tantalus.  As you already know from previous books, this series revolves around three species (Tantalarian,Humans, and Sirens) working together on the planet, Tantalus. With dangerous humans heading for Mars, Kyllan and Trysuil are determined to help all the Sirens move quickly to Tantalus. I love how the Tantalarian Saga continues to grow.

The focus of this novella concentrates on the Queen and King, and their Siren daughters, Errissa and Echoe, helping to gather all their people quickly move to Tantalus.  A private message to one of the Sirens comes from Earth, warning them all that trouble is coming far quicker than they thought.  Trysuil and Kyllan discover that they have all been betrayed by some of the humans who have been living in Tantalus, who have given out information for the Earth humans to come with weapons, in their attempt to take over their lands, causing war and destruction.

What follows is an excellent, quick and informative story line that will lead us to the eventual conclusion of this series. If you have not read this series, to tell too much more, would be spoilers.  You need to begin with the first book in order to learn about Tantalus and the Sirens, as well as to meet all the wonderful characters that Abraham has introduced us to in this series. M.A. Abraham has once again given us an exciting, enjoyable and interesting story as we race to the finish. I look forward with high anticipation to read the next book (Final Contact) , which I expect to be the finale, in 2019.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy supplied for review

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The Woman Trapped in the Dark by J.D. Mason – a Review

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The Woman Trapped in the Dark by J.D. Mason – a Review

 

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Description:
Marriage can be deadly.

People disparaged their relationship. Enemies tried to tear them apart. But even so, Abby Rhodes and Jordan Gatewood fought hard to be together. Now, they are looking to settle into a life of married bliss. But sometimes the greatest threat stems from the person you trust the most.

Someone is hunting Abby. She has been taken prisoner, held captive by those who would stop at nothing to destroy Jordan. Now he must figure out how his dark and murky past holds the key to finding her.

Every moment, hour, or day that these people keep her locked in this place slowly robs Abby of any hope she has of surviving this nightmare. She wants to believe that Jordan will save her, but it doesn’t take long for Abby to realize that it’s up to her to find a way out of this terrifying ordeal before it’s too late.

 

 

Review:

The Woman Trapped in the Dark by J.D. Mason is the 3rd and final book in her Blink, Texas trilogy.  I did enjoy the previous book, but had some mixed feelings about this one.  I found The Woman Trapped in the Dark to be an intense and dark story, which despite its exciting plot, had me in knots throughout most of the book. 

Abby Rhodes, our heroine, is kidnapped right from the start.  The kidnappers aim is to use Abby to destroy Jordan Gatewood, our hero & her fiancee, knowing he will do whatever it takes to save Abby.  The story flips between Gatewood’s enemies from the past, especially his father’s enemies; as well as the people who have kidnapped Abby, following instructions from an unknown source; since they will make a lot of money.  Though for the head honcho behind this plot, it is not about money but sweet revenge.

Jordan brings someone to help him find Abby before the deadline, and at every turn they are running out of time.   We get flash backs of Abby and Jordan together, and their love for each other.   Most of all, we sit through Abby’s terrifying ordeal, especially one of the kidnappers, who is deranged.  The other two kidnappers are determined to finish the job, get their share of the money, and free Abby.  But those behind the scenes, as well as the deranged kidnapper have other plans.

Jordan was desperate to find those responsible for Abby’s kidnapping, and we truly felt his desperation.   Building his empire made him a lot of enemies, which made his attempt even more difficult.  I will say that Mason did an excellent job writing this book, having us on the edge all the way through.  I did like Abby, and but it was hard to watch her terror and desperation to find a way to escape.  The deranged kidnapper became even crazier as we raced to the climax, even though his partners in crime wanted to finish this up and free Abby.

There were a number of twists, which Plato (the man Jordan hired to help him find Abby) managed to use in hope to find Abby.  As much as this was a good story line, the dark moments between Abby, and the kidnapper, made for a scary scenario, which is not what I want when I read a book, no matter how exciting it may be.  The Woman Trapped in the Dark was a well written and intense story.  If you do like a scary and dark story line, then you should read this book.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

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Vampires Like It Hot (Argeneau #28) by Lynsay Sands-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway Tour

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Vampires Like It Hot (Argeneau #28) by Lynsay Sands-Review,Excerpt & Giveaway Tour

VAMPIRES LIKE IT HOT
Argeneau #28
by Lynsay Sands
Release Date: September 18, 2018
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, romance

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 18, 2018

“Vampires…”

When Raffaele Notte pulls a barely dressed, disoriented woman from the ocean, the last thing he expects is for her to utter that word. The immortal has come to the island resort to help his cousin, but now, it seems, there are rogue vampires dining on unsuspecting tourists. And he soon realizes that not only is Jess a target, she’s also the life mate he’s been waiting for…

Vampires are real. Jess would’ve never believed it until she saw them with her own eyes. She knows she has to get off the island, and her gallant rescuer has offered to help. There’s something about Raffaele that’s unlike any man she has ever met, and his touch sends pleasure through her that is beyond all imagining. But when Jess discovers who he really is, will she risk life as she knows it for a chance of forever by his side?

•••••

REVIEW: Vampires Like it Hot begins with Raffaele Notte, along with two of his cousins, Santo and Zanipolo, vacationing in Punta Cana, which is in the Dominican Republic. The intent of said vacation is to help one of his cousins, Santo, to try and relax after having been held and tortured by a crazy man named Dr. Dressler. Santo has become rather obsessed with hunting down the doctor and any rogue immortals who are helping him. The Council has even discussed performing a mind wipe on Santo to help him, but Raffaele and Zani know that can change him, so they’re determined to ‘get him over the hump’. May be easier said than done………

Jess had come to the Dominican Republic for a cousin’s wedding, and had gotten stuck rooming with another cousin, Allison. The two of them were returning from an outing when Jess lost Allison in the crowd. Once she caught up with Allison, she found that Allison wanted to go on another excursion with a group dressed as pirates who were going to take them out to feed the sharks. Jess didn’t want to go, but found herself being swept up in what Allison wanted to do. It doesn’t take long for Jess to realize that something is very wrong with the “crew” and that she and everyone else on the ship is in danger………

Vampires Like it Hot is another great addition to the Argeneau series. There is something about the world that Sands has created that just endears every story to the reader. The characters are always well written and engaging and Raffaele and Jess were no exception. The secondary characters are always intriguing as well. However, in this one, the secondary characters almost stole the show. Of course, Jess and Raffaele were great together. They were funny and brave and a little quirky. But, the secondary characters left me wanting way more of their story, and I believe that may be where Sands is headed. (I’m keeping my fingers crossed!) Talk about things not being what they appear………. If you’re a fan of paranormal romance that has some hot moments as well as a lot of humor, you’ll never go wrong with the Argeneau Series. Well done, Lynsay Sands! Very, very well done!!

Copy supplied by Edelweiss

Reviewed by Vickie K

“It’s a woman.”
“Who is she?”
“She’s wearing a life jacket.”
“What happened?”
“How did she end up in the water?”
Raffaele shook his head at the rapid-fire questions shot at him by Zanipolo and Santo as he carried the woman out of the water. Rather than answer, he merely said, “Bring my clothes, please,” and walked past them, heading for the resort buildings.
The men had already gathered his clothes for him on the way down, so merely fell into step on either side of him as he walked.
“Is she alive?” Zanipolo asked with a frown, leaning slightly in front of Raffaele to look at the woman in his arms as they walked,.
“Yes,” Raffaele said quietly. “I think she has just fainted from her exhaustion.”
“Are you taking her to the resort clinic?” Santo asked as they reached the rows of lounge chairs at the head of the beach.
“No. I want to look her over myself first,” Raffaele said solemnly.
“Why?” Santo asked at once.
“Two reasons,” Raffaele responded as they made their way out of the rows of chairs and reached the concrete paths leading to the various resort buildings. Much to his relief the paths were pretty much deserted at this hour with most people already in bed, or situated in the bar enjoying the entertainment. There were only one or two guests making their way to their rooms and they paid them no attention.
“What is the first reason?” Santo asked as they approached the paths around the pools.
“I want to look her over for bites,” Raffaele admitted.
“Bites?” Zanipolo asked with interest. “What makes you think she might have been bitten?”
“Because when I asked her if she’d fallen off a boat or cruise ship, she said no, she jumped, and when I asked why, she said—” he glanced around to be sure no one was near enough to hear, and then lowered his voice anyway as he finished with “‘—vampires.’”
“Bingo,” Zanipolo said with grim satisfaction as they got past the pools and approached their building. “She’ll be able to tell us where the vampire nest is and how they operate. It’s got to be some kind of dinner cruise or something. Or it could be a day cruise. She could have had to swim a long way.” He frowned over that briefly as they reached their building and walked along the open hall to the stairs, and then asked, “What is the second reason you want to examine her before we take her to the resort clinic?”
“When I got to her she was beyond exhausted,” Raffaele said as they started up the stairs. “Her words were slurred and she could hardly keep her eyes open. I thought it would be easier all around if I read her mind to see what had happened, and took control of her to drag her in.”
“And?” Santo prodded as they exited the stairs at their floor and started along the hall to their room.
Raffaele was silent for a minute, having trouble accepting what he was about to say himself, but when they reached the door to their suite and Santo pulled out his key card to unlock the door, Raffaele swallowed and said in almost a whisper, “I couldn’t read her.”
Santo had got the door unlocked and started to open it before Raffaele spoke, but now he stiffened and turned sharply to peer at him with amazement. “What?”
Raffaele merely nodded.
“Score!” Zanipolo shouted gleefully. “Didn’t I tell you? I told you! Didn’t I? Hot resorts are the way to go to find our mates! I so toldyou that!”
“Yes, you did,” Raffaele admitted with amusement as Santo pushed the door open for him to carry his life mate into the room.
“And he’ll remind you of that every day for the rest of his life,” Santo said dryly as he let the door close, locked it, and then hit the light switch, turning on the overhead light.
“Sì, I will,” Zanipolo agreed gleefully, moving to Raffaele’s side to peer down at the woman he held. Eyeing her almost reverently now, he whispered, “Cugino, your life mate is very pretty.”
“Yes, she is,” Raffaele agreed solemnly, his gaze sliding over her as well. Her lips were full and looked soft, her nose straight, and while they were closed now, he knew her eyes were large and lovely, and an eggshell blue. Her hair, of course, was wet, but appeared to be a dark brown.
“What is her name?” Santo asked, moving closer to look her over as well.
Raffaele stiffened at the question. “I don’t know her name,” he admitted.
“You didn’t ask her?” Santo asked with surprise.
Raffaele shook his head.
“Are you kidding me?” Zanipolo asked with disbelief. “You finally meet your mate and you did not even ask her name?”
Raffaele opened his mouth to respond, but was forestalled when the woman in his arms suddenly began to shriek and thrash wildly about.

LYNSAY SANDS is the nationally bestselling author of the Argeneau/Rogue Hunter vampire series, as well as numerous historicals and anthologies. She’s been writing stories since grade school and considers herself incredibly lucky to be able to make a career out of it. Her hope is that readers can get away from their everyday stress through her stories, and if there’s occasional uncontrollable fits of laughter, that’s just a big bonus. Please visit her on the web at www.lynsaysands.net.

Follow: Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads

 

TOUR WIDE GIVEAWAY DETAILS

To celebrate the release of VAMPIRES LIKE IT HOT by Lynsay Sands, we’re giving away a paperback copy of Twice Bitten!

LINK: http://bit.ly/2wraXAW

GIVEAWAY TERMS & CONDITIONS:  Open to US shipping addresses only. One winner will receive a paperback copy of Twice Bitten by Lynsay Sands.  This giveaway is administered by Pure Textuality PR on behalf of Avon Romance. Giveaway ends 9/28/2018 @ 11:59pm EST. Avon Romance will send the winning copies out to the winner directly. Limit one entry per reader and mailing address.  Duplicates will be deleted.

 

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Wound Tight (Rough Riders / Blacktop Cowboy Crossover) by Lorelei James-Review & Excerpt tour

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Wound Tight (Rough Riders / Blacktop Cowboy Crossover) by Lorelei James-Review & Excerpt Tour

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From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lorelei James comes a new story in her Rough Riders/Blacktop Cowboys® series…

A May-December romance hotter than the 4th of July…

Bull rider Justin Donohue spent his youth hell-bent on winning a world championship. Now retired and nearing the big 4-0, a gold belt buckle and a rusted-out pickup are all he has to show for his years on the blacktop. When Justin takes a job at the Gradsky Ranch, he immediately locks horns (and lips) with the sexy, sassy Calliope—a 22 year old cowgirl set on seducing him. Reminding her of their age difference doesn’t deter Calliope; neither does Justin’s warning that she deserves more than a busted-up former rodeo cowboy.

From the moment Calliope Morgan encounters the hot-as-fire new ranch foreman, she knows his gruff manner is an attempt to mask his attraction to her. But she’s never backed down from a challenge, especially not when Justin’s actions speak louder than his denials. Calliope doesn’t give a damn that he’s older than her or what others might think of their relationship. The uptight cowboy needs to relax and she’ll do whatever it takes to loosen him up, proving there are no age restrictions when it comes to lust…or to falling in love.

**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you’ll enjoy each one as much as we do.**

••••••••••

REVIEW:WOUND TIGHT is a cross-over novella from two of Lorelei James’ contemporary, adult, erotic, cowboy romance series- Rough Riders and Blacktop Cowboys, as well as being the latest addition into the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights novella series. This is forty-year old retired bull-riding champion Justin Donahue, and twenty-two year old bartender Calliope ‘Callie’ Morgan’s story line. WOUND TIGHT can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Justin Donahue is Jack Donahue’s brother –ALL JACKED UP (Rough Riders #8).

Told from dual third person perspectives (Justin and Callie) WOUND TIGHT follows the May-December romance and relationship between forty-year old retired bull-riding champion Justin Donahue, and twenty-two year old bartender Calliope ‘Callie’ Morgan. Justin Donahue is the newest bull-riding instructor at the Gradsky Ranch, a ranch where Callie works days cleaning before heading into town where she works another eight hours at the local bar. Meeting bartender Callie Morgan, throws Justin for a loop, when he can’t get past their age difference, and his need for the woman that calls to his heart. What ensues is the back and forth, acrimonious relationship between Callie and Justin, and the potential fall-out as Justin continues to struggle with the difference in their ages.

WOUND TIGHT is a fast-paced, sexy and sassy story about one man’s battle between head and heart as the woman he loves pushes all of his buttons. Lorelei James writes a realistic and passionate, spirited and edgy tale that is sure to please romantics, and cowboy lovers at heart.

Reviewed by Sandy

Copy supplied for review

Hell, he couldn’t remember the last time he’d gotten hard and horny just from watching a woman shake what God, genetics, or a plastic surgeon had given her.
That’s when he should’ve walked away.
But he didn’t.
Sweat snaked down his spine before the babe on the bar spun around, gifting him with the view of the front side of her body.
Justin tightened his jaw to keep drool from spilling out of his mouth at his first glimpse of her lush tits.
Took him a few moments to tear his gaze away from the enticing sway of her breasts to watch how sensuously she rocked her lower half. He swore her tank top was so sheer that he could see the outline of her belly button through the clingy material.
For a split second, he imagined curling his hands around her hips as he brushed his lips across her belly, feeling her soft flesh rippling beneath his hot breath as he dragged his mouth lower and lower.
A loud stomp of her boots on the bartop jarred him from that fantasy and he refocused on her face this time. A crazy feeling of anticipation took wing in his chest when he saw her devilish smile and the challenge in her big blue eyes directed at him.
She performed a whole-body shimmy as she twisted down to a crouching position, then she twisted back up, whipping her head side to side, sending her long flowing locks—not golden blonde or honey brown or fiery red, but a fascinating mix of all three colors—swinging in an arc that never masked her angelic face.
Angelic? Nope. Any woman who could manipulate her body like that knew her way around the type of dirty that’d put a smile on the devil’s face.
It definitely put a smile on Justin’s.
She’d reached the section of the song where Sammy’s voice had taken on a pleading tone. Keeping their gazes locked, she crooked her finger at him and mouthed the words “Now come on baby…please?”
Next to him, Deke said, “Holy f*ck, man. Did you see…”
Whatever else he’d said got lost when Justin walked away from him toward her. By the time he reached her, she’d lowered to her knees. Her full lips were tilted into a sexy, secretive smile when she deftly plucked his black Stetson off his head and plopped it onto her own. Then in an impressive acrobatic maneuver, she rolled back onto her bootheels and jumped to a standing position. She spun around, shaking that fantastic ass, winking at him over her shoulder, trying to appear coy from beneath the brim of his hat.

Lorelei James is the New York Times and USA TodayBestselling 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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