Monthly Archives: July 2019

Sweep of the Blade by Ilona Andrews – a Review

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Sweep of the Blade by Ilona Andrews – a Review

 

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Description:
Maud Demille was a daughter of Innkeepers. She knew that a simple life wasn’t in the cards, but she never anticipated what Fate would throw at her.

Once a wife to a powerful vampire knight, Maud and her daughter, Helen, had been exiled for the sins of her husband to the desolate planet of Karhari. Karhari killed her husband, and Maud had spent a year and a half avenging his debts. But now all the debts are paid. Rescued by her sister Dina, Maud had swore off all things vampire. Except she met Arland, the Marshal of House Krahr. One thing led to another and he asked for her hand in marriage. She declined.

Try as she might, she can’t just walk away from Arland. It doesn’t help that being human is a lot harder for Maud than being a vampire.

To sort it all out, she accepts his invitation to visit his home planet. House Krahr is a powerful vampire House, and Maud knows that a woman who turned down the proposal from its most beloved son wouldn’t get a warm reception. But Maud Demille never shied from a fight and House Krahr may soon discover that there is more to this human woman than they ever thought possible.

 

 

Review:

Sweep of the Blade by Ilona Andrews is the 4th book in their wonderful Innkeeper Chronicles.  I love this series, and this book is no exception; it was great.  But then again, I love every single book by our illustrious duo (Ilona & Gordon Andrews).  Andrews gave their fans, online chapters of the entire series over many months, and I couldn’t wait for the next chapter.  But when Sweep of the Blade was released as a full version, I purchased it to be able to enjoy reading this again as a full read.

Maud Demille, Dina’s (previous book heroine) sister, was such a fantastic heroine; I just marveled how amazing she was, as well as her love for her daughter and to the extreme she would go to protect her.   Helen was not only adorable, but a budding power in herself. We did meet them both in the last book.  I absolutely loved Arland, as we met him in previous books with Dina, and he is some hot and sexy hunk.

Arland, is the Marshall of House Krahr, which is the most powerful Vampire house among the planets.  Arland has expressed his love to Maud, and though she knows she has fallen for him, she is hesitant to commit, having lost her deceased husband, and survived a horrific time with Helen being outcast; she does accept to go with him to his home planet. 

This is where the fun begins, as Maud will need to meet Arland’s family, and knows that they probably are against her, but trust me, Maud is someone to reckon with, and in time she will win over the family.  She will also prove how smart and savvy she is in dealing with the enemy that is threatening House Krahr.  In many intense and dangerous battles, Maud will surprise us with her tenacity, and eventually becomes a valuable member of House Krahr when she manages to be a step ahead of the enemies.  Arland and Maud’s romance was sweet, but it will be closer to the end when she finally gives in to her feelings.  As much as I loved Arland, and knew he was the perfect man for her; it was Maud who was everything in this story; a fabulous heroine.

Sweep of the Blade is a fun exciting nonstop action-packed story that will pit House Krahr against two other houses teaming up to take over and destroy their house.  Of course, House Krahr is far more powerful then the other houses, and the battles were violent, intense and bloody. Arland and Maud together were unstoppable, as well as the entire Krahr family.  I loved how Maud knew how to get other species to align with them, knowing all their customs, to help House Krahr, but most of all I loved how she knew what the enemy was planning, especially since she knew their language and pretended not to understand. 

I can’t wait to see where Andrews will take us next in this fantastic series. The ending gives us a hint, but not sure if we will return to Dina and her Innkeeper responsibilities, or more with Maud, Arlen and Helen.  Thank you, Ilona and Gordon Andrews, for this wonderful series.

Reviewed by Barb

Owned a copy

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Bad Case of Loving You by Deborah Cooke- a review

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BAD CASE OF LOVING YOU (Flatiron Five #5) by Deborah Cooke-a review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 23, 2019

Theo knows what’s possible…
Because he’s learned the hard way what’s not. The internationally successful supermodel known as Angel stole his heart forever when she was shy Lyssa Monroe. There’s never been another woman who could compete—he even loved Lyssa enough to walk away when she told him they had to part. When he sees her at F5, he’s resolved to make one glimpse of her sustain him for another ten years. When she offers him one night together, Theo can’t say no—even though he knows a taste will only tempt him to hope for more all over again.

Lyssa has tasted forbidden fruit…
And she can’t forget it, no matter how hard she tries. Theo’s love is a touchstone for all that is pure and good in the chaos her life has become. When their gazes meet across the dance floor at F5, everything is simple for once and only one choice is possible. The secrets she keeps from him could destroy everything, but surely she can keep them hidden for just one night. How much will she sacrifice to defend the past—and how far will Theo go to discover the truth?

•••••••

REVIEW: BAD CASE OF LOVING YOU is the fifth instalment in Deborah Cooke’s erotic, romance series focusing on the five friends-owners and proprietors of the exclusive Manhattan fitness club Flatiron Five-Tyler, Kyle, Damon, Cassie, and Theo. This is Theo Tremblay, and international model Lyssa Monroe’s story line. BAD CASE OF LOVING YOU can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information is revealed where necessary but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and cohesion.

Told from several third person perspectives including Lyssa and Theo BAD CASE OF LOVING YOU follows the second chance romance between Flatiron Five co-owner Theo Tremblay, and international model Lyssa Monroe. Approximately eleven years earlier, college sweethearts Lyssa and Theo’s relationship came to a screeching halt when our heroine changed directions in life opting for a career on the international stage. Fast forward to present day wherein Lyssa’s life is once again changing directions, a direction that brings her face to face with her past. Enter Flatiron Five co-owner Theo Tremblay. What ensues is the rekindling romance between Theo and Lyssa, and the potential fall-out as secrets from the past reveal much more than Theo could ever have imagined.

Tired of the travel, and hoping to settle down Lyssa Monroe heads to New York City, in an effort to reconnect with the man with whom she will fall in love but our heroine has secrets that when revealed will change the direction of Theo’s life. Theo Tremblay never understood why he wasn’t enough for the woman he loved. With little to no explanation Lyssa walked out of Theo’s life leaving a shell of the man he once was.

The relationship between Lyssa and Theo is one of second chances; a rekindling romance wherein Theo struggles to let go of Lyssa’s past betrayals, betrayals that will be reinforced when secrets are revealed. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

BAD CASE OF LOVING YOU is an ensemble story line with all of the previous story line couples playing secondary and supporting characters, as well as the appearance of tattoo artist Chynna. We are introduced to Lyssa’s PA Mercedes, her agent Justin, and ten year old Logan

BAD CASE OF LOVING YOU is a story of family, friendship, secrets and lies; of betrayal and heartbreak; second chances and falling in love. The premise is inviting; the romance is spicy and sexy; the characters are sassy and wounded. BAD CASE OF LOVING YOU is an animated look at rekindling love.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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In Case You Didn’t Know by Samantha Chase-Review & Excerpt Tour

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In Case You Didn’t Know (Magnolia Sound #3) by Samantha Chase-Review and Excerpt tour

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Goodreads: https://geni.us/oap6tG

Golden child Mason Bishop has finally had enough. Tired of bearing the weight of his parents’ expectations, he’s determined to break free and forge his own path. It’s time for him to go after the things he really wants—including the girl he never forgot.

Scarlett Jones is done being ruled by her insecurities. She’s ready to be see as something other than one of the guys, and she’s done thinking she’s not good enough for the social elite—especially the Bishops.

When he runs into Scarlett at a concert, Mason believes it’s fate bringing them together. But fate only gets you so far. If he wants a real chance with Scarlett, it’s going to take a whole lot of charm to convince her he’s worth it.

Golden child Mason Bishop has finally had enough. Tired of bearing the weight of his parents’ expectations, he’s determined to break free and forge his own path. It’s time for him to go after the things he really wants—including the girl he never forgot.

Scarlett Jones is done being ruled by her insecurities. She’s ready to be see as something other than one of the guys, and she’s done thinking she’s not good enough for the social elite—especially the Bishops.

When he runs into Scarlett at a concert, Mason believes it’s fate bringing them together. But fate only gets you so far. If he wants a real chance with Scarlett, it’s going to take a whole lot of charm to convince her he’s worth it.

••••••••••

REVIEW: IN CASE YOU DIDN’T KNOW is the third full-length instalment in Samantha Chase’s contemporary, adult MAGNOLIA SOUND romance series focusing on the Westbrook – Bishop family. This is engineer Mason Bishop, and mechanic/IT specialist Scarlett Jones’ story line. IN CASE YOU DIDN’T KNOW can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Mason and Scarlett) focuses on the estate division of the late Ezekiel Coleman, one of the original founding families of Magnolia Cove. Struggling with his dysfunctional relationship with his mother and father, Mason battles between head and heart as it pertains to the inheritance his grandfather laid out in his will. Hoping to keep his personal and professional business separate, Mason begins to search for something that has alluded our hero most of his life. Raised with the privilege that comes with his family’s wealth and money, Mason is willing to walk away without a backwards glance. Meeting former high school acquaintance Scarlett Jones gives Mason a chance for something more but our heroine struggles with the cavernous difference between the haves and the have-nots. What ensues is the building relationship between Mason and Scarlett, and the potential fall –out as the implications of Mason’s inheritance threaten the people Scarlett knows and loves.

Mason Bishop doesn’t adhere to his mother’s need to keep up appearances in public. Never having wanted to flaunt the family riches, Mason follows a different path, a path that will bring him face to face with the woman with whom he will fall in love. Scarlett Jones is a bit of a reverse snob with a large chip on her shoulder, struggling with the Bishop’s family riches, and her life-long insecurity to be seen as something more than the poor kid on the block. Getting re-acquainted with Mason Bishop found our heroine considering the future, a future threatened by sins of the past.

The relationship between Mason and Scarlett is one of immediate attraction but Scarlett’s preconceived notions, judgemental attitude and numerous assumptions about Mason Bishop were difficult to accept. Our heroine’s bias and animosity towards Mason were troubling, so much so that Scarlett pushed Mason out of her life.

We are introduced to Scarlett’s father Dominic Jones, and her brothers Dean, Kyle and Hunter, and their grandfather Tommy Flynn; Mason’s parents Georgia and Beau Bishop, as well as his sisters Parker and Peyton; cousin Sam Westbrook and Shelby Abbott (A Girl Like You #2).

IN CASE YOU DIDN’T KNOW is a story of family, intolerance, acceptance and love. The premise is captivating; the characters are flirty and sassy-their back and forth banter was fun; the romance is sweet-the $ex scenes are all implied. IN CASE YOU DIDN’T KNOW is a small town romance where opposites attract, and past secrets re about to be exposed.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Sunkissed Days
Remind Me
A Girl Like You
In Case You Didn’t Know

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

“Don’t go,” he said, moving in shamelessly closer. Scarlett could feel the heat of his body, could smell his cologne and all thoughts of going back to her spot in the nosebleed section were forgotten. “I mean…what’s the hurry?”
Scarlett tried to think up something witty to say, but her mind was a complete blank.
Okay, that wasn’t totally true. She was thinking about how in a perfect world she could have just said yes–that she’d love to go out with him after the concert. Or better yet, that she could just go back to his celebrity section and watch the rest of the show together.
“C’mon,” he said, interrupting her thoughts. “If you won’t go out with me later, hang out for a bit now.”
And then she completely embarrassed and horrified herself.
She giggled.
God, she hated women who did that.
She was one step away from twirling her hair and Scarlett knew she needed to get herself under control.
“Have a drink with me,” he prompted.
“I really just wanted some water.”
“Then we’ll have water.”
Her laugh this time wasn’t quite so girly, but there was a huskiness to it she didn’t recognize either. “You can drink whatever you’d like. You don’t have to be lame just because I am.” Standing this close to him, she could smell the beer on his breath so she knew he was most likely out here to grab another one.
“I don’t think you’re being lame, Jones,” he said playfully, being a total flirt. “I think it’s hot as hell out here and it’s probably the smarter choice than what I was thinking.”
“Well…I try to be practical.”
Wow. Way to sound appealing, dork.
His grin was downright boyish and if she wasn’t mistaken, he moved a little closer. Only…she didn’t feel crowded by him. If anything, she wished she were bold enough to do the same.
“Practical can be good,” he commented. “But sometimes it’s fun to be a little…impulsive.”
Oh my…
Swallowing hard, she nodded. “Are we still talking about beverages?”
And yeah, that totally wasn’t her voice.
Mason let out a low groan and slowly licked his bottom lip and Scarlett couldn’t believe how incredibly attractive she found the move. Her eyes traced the movement and when she looked up and met his steel-blue eyes, she felt like everything around them faded away–the crowds, the noise, the music–and all that was left was the two of them.
It didn’t seem possible and her first thought was how she was just feeling this way because it had been so damn long since she’d been with a guy. But the longer they continued to look at each other, the more she realized it had nothing to do with how much time it had been–it was all him. All Mason. And as much as she wanted to be annoyed by that fact, she couldn’t seem to make that happen. Whatever was happening was happening, and she was more than willing to let it.
What was the harm in hanging out with him for a bit? Hell, what was the harm in flirting? It wasn’t as if this were going anywhere and there was no one around to tell her he was out of her league or to remind him how he shouldn’t be hanging around with someone so beneath his social status. Right now they were just a man and a woman maybe having a drink and a little conversation.
Flirty conversation.
She could do that, right?
For a little while, she could be the girly-girl no one thought she could be and have the full attention of one of the most eligible bachelors in town. How hard could it be?
Doing her best to relax, Scarlett smiled up at Mason. “So, we were going to have an impulsive drink, right?”
His grin was slow and sexy as hell. “Well, that would have been my request for after the show. But since you have plans…”
She shrugged. “Then I guess we should do it now before we both miss the entire concert.” Her tone was light and carefree and she had to admit, it felt good.
“Stay right here,” he said anxiously before sprinting over to the drink kiosk. Scarlett wasn’t sure how he did it, but he managed to be back with two bottles of water in less than a minute. It was almost as if the small crowd parted for him and let him skip to the front of the line.
And seriously, that wouldn’t surprise her at all.
“Thanks,” she said, accepting the drink from him. “But you seriously could have gotten something else.”
“And risk taking too much time away from the little we have?”
Rolling her eyes, she couldn’t suppress her laughter. “Dude, seriously? That has to be the cheesiest line ever!”
Luckily, he laughed with her. “Oh, I don’t know about that. I think I could come up with a few more if you gave me the chance.”
Her curiosity got the better of her and she wanted to know what exactly the infamous Mason Bishop considered to be cheesy pickup lines. “I’m giving you the chance. Lay them on me,” she challenged as she leaned against the cool brick.
His eyes went wide. “That’s how you want to spend our time?”
That just had her laughing again. “I’m sure there are better ways, but I thought I’d see if you were up for the challenge.”
Oh my God…I did not just say that!
His gaze turned a little heated and he took a quick drink before bending down and placing the bottle on the ground. When he straightened, he mimicked her pose against the brick. “Challenge accepted.”
“Bring it on.”
And she only partially meant the cheesy lines.


 

FOLLOW: Goodreads / Twitter / Website / Facebook

Samantha ChaseNew York Times and USA Today Bestseller/contemporary romance writer Samantha Chase released her debut novel, Jordan’s Return, in November 2011. Although she waited until she was in her 40’s to publish for the first time, writing has been a lifelong passion. Her motivation to take that step was her students: teaching creative writing to elementary age students all the way up through high school and encouraging those students to follow their writing dreams gave Samantha the confidence to take that step as well.

 

When she’s not working on a new story, she spends her time reading contemporary romances, playing way too many games of Scrabble or Solitaire on Facebook and spending time with her husband of 25 years and their two sons in NorthCarolina.

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The Smuggler’s Escape by Barbara Monajem – a Review

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The Smuggler’s Escape by Barbara Monajem – a Review

 

Amazon

 

Description:
After escaping the guillotine in her native France, aristocrat Noelle de Vallon takes refuge with her aunt in Sussex. Feisty, resourceful, and determined to make her own way, she takes over the local smuggling operations, doubling their profits. But when their plans are betrayed, a man from her past steps out of the shadows to save her. Too bad he’s the last man on earth she ever wanted to see again.

Years ago, Richard, Lord Boltwood’s, plan to marry Noelle was foiled when his ruthless father shipped him to the Continent to work in espionage. But with the old man at death’s door, Richard returns to England with one final mission: to catch a spy. And Noelle is the prime suspect.

Noelle is determined to finish the smuggling run and escape back to France. She needs Richard’s help to do it, but how can she ever trust the man who abandoned her? And how can Richard catch the real culprit while protecting the woman who stole his heart and won’t forgive him for breaking hers?

 

Review:

*Rubs hands together and smiles* Alrighty, well this was a first time read for this author, Barbara Monajem and she sure didn’t disappoint. Spies, action, love and a good funny thrown in for good humor, this book is sure to excite just about any reader.

Noelle is a fiery, passionate and self-determined woman that tugs at the heart strings, and Richard, well he’s hard to not love on sight. Two polar opposite people come together to find so much more than what they were looking for. Noelle a spy, and Richard a government official, two people that seems to be the worst of enemies but turn into something more.

Now, I will be honest, at the end of this book, I was almost happy for it to be over, the story is great, and the characters even more so, but the story itself seems to drag on when it does not need to. Not to say that the book was bad, because it was not, I found myself caught up in the funny moments, and the interesting characters, but sometimes, less is more.

I very much enjoyed the action, suspense, humor and romance of this author, she will be one I look forward to reading again for sure! 

Reviewed by Sarah

Copy supplied for review

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The Protective SEAL/Coming to Her Rescue by Katie Knight-reviews

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The Protective SEAL/Coming to Her Rescue by Katie Knight-reviews

THE PROTECTIVE SEAL
by Katie Knight
Genre: adult, contemporary, military, SEAL, romantic suspense

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 13, 2019

Jack Williams has never felt so lost. For him, being a Navy SEAL wasn’t just a job, it was a way of life. Protecting people had always been his strength, until a career-ending injury forced him into retirement. He’s struggling to start over when he stumbles across a car in a ditch, springing him back into action. Only this is no random citizen in distress. He knows the pretty face behind the wheel. Intimately. In fact, there’s a good chance the baby in her arms is his.

One year ago, Samantha Engel was forced into witness protection to escape her ruthless mob-boss father. Jack had been her protector, and seeing her again now, in desperate need of help, stirs up a flood of emotions that catch Jack off-guard. Scheduled to testify against her dad, Sam is now on the run. Her father’s offering a pretty penny to anyone who can silence her for good. Jack may not the protector he once was, but he knows one thing for sure: if Sam and her baby are in trouble, he’s not letting them out of his sight.

With tensions running high and temptations running higher, Sam readily puts her life in Jack’s capable hands. Once the only person she could trust, she’d feared her daughter would grow up never knowing the man she owed her life to. But being back in Jack’s arms—and his bed—makes her heart pound like no time has passed. With the mob threat closing in, Jack knows failure isn’t an option. But even if they survive, Jack will have to fight to find a way to keep Sam and her daughter under his protection, or risk having to say good-bye again—this time for good.

••••••••••

REVIEW: THE PROTECTIVE SEAL by Katie Knight is a contemporary, adult, military romantic suspense story line in the author’s series of US Navy SEAL stories. This is US Navy SEAL Jack Williams, and Marine Biology undergrad Samantha Engel’s story line.

Told from three third person perspectives including Jack and Samantha THE PROTECTIVE SEAL follows Samantha Engel, the daughter of Chicago mobster Stefan Engel, as she is forced into witness protection in an effort to escape the wrath of her murderous father. Approximately eighteen months earlier our heroine found herself rescued from the Costa Rican village by a Team of US Navy SEALs where she will come face to face with her future, Jack Williams. Fast forward to present day wherein Samantha’s life hangs precariously in the balance as her father plots her demise from inside his prison cell leaving our heroine on the run for her life, along with that of her six month old daughter’s. With no where else to go Samantha lands in Rally, Nebraska in the hopes of finding the man she hasn’t stopped thinking about. Enter former US Navy SEAL Jack Williams, and the man with whom Samantha will fall in love. What ensues is the rekindling relationship and romance between Samantha and Jack, and the potential fall-out as our couple struggle to stay one step ahead of the killers sent to destroy it all.

Samantha Engel has never stopped thinking about the man who saved her life all those months ago because one night of passion gave Samantha something more precious than anyone could have imagined. Desperate to protect her daughter and her life, Samantha battles between head and heart knowing she would bring with her danger and death at every turn. Jack Williams had no idea he was a father but seeing Samantha’s daughter he knew immediately the child was his. With a family to protect, Jack becomes guardian and protector to save the woman with whom he would fall in love.

WE are introduced to Jack’s friend, former Navy SEAL and US marshal Zeke Taylor, as well as Samantha’s father Stefan Engel, and a large number of agents and assassins sent to take out our story line heroine.

THE PROTECTIVE SEAL is a story of family, betrayal, power and control. The fast paced premise is energetic and engaging; the characters are colorful and strong; the second chance romance is steamy and passionate. THE PROTECT SEAL is an intriguing and suspense filled story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

______________

COMING TO HER RESCUE
by Katie Knight
Genre: adult, contemporary, military, SEAL, romantic suspense

ebook ONLY 99¢ or £0.99 for a limited time: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 9, 2019

When Navy SEAL Jake Hendrix attends a charity bachelor/bachelorette auction as a favor for a friend, he’s stunned to see his squad mate’s gorgeous sister, Hanna Masterson, walk across the stage. She’s grown even more stunning in the years since he’d met (and very nearly made out with) her at the end of basic training. When Jake overhears other bidders talking about her, his alpha protector instinct kicks in and he decides to bid on her himself. He thinks he’s saving her. What he didn’t expect was how upset she’d be at him.

Hanna has developed a checklist of qualities she wants in a man. Someone reliable, dependable, and family oriented who can provide for her and their children. She doesn’t need the likes of Jake Hendrix—smoking hot as he is—getting in the way of her man hunt. She’d been hoping the auction might pair her with a potential long-term match, but alas she just got her brother’s hot squad mate who has “one night only” written all over him.

But the date actually goes well—really well. Best sex of her life well. But the following day, Jake immediately pulls back, just as she expected. Romance only gets in the way of doing his job: protection has no room for passion. Resigned to their night together being nothing more than a blip in the road, Hanna’s unsettled when a pregnancy test turns that blip into a major speedbump.

Before she can tell Jake she’s pregnant, something far more unexpected lands on her plate. One of her high-profile clients has been murdered, and because he’s shared certain information with Hanna, the killers will stop at nothing to silence her.

Despite his promises to stay uninvolved, Jake can’t help but protect Hanna, baby bump and all, insisting they go on the run as they dig deeper into the dangerous situation they’ve found themselves in. But as the threat closes in on their secluded safe house, their biggest problem might just be falling in love and losing it all…

••••••••

REVIEW: COMING TO HER RESCUE by Katie Knight is another instalment in the author’s series focusing on the US Navy SEALs. This is Navy SEAL Jake Hendrix, and therapist Hanna Masterson’s story line. All of Katie’s SEAL stories can be read as stand alone without any difficulty.

Told from dual third person perspective (Jake and Hanna) COMING TO HER RESCUE follows the best friend’s little sister relationship between Navy SEAL Jake Hendrix, and therapist Hanna Masterson. Jake was invited to a bachelorette auction but was shocked when one of the contestants was his fellow SEAL’s little sister Hanna Masterson. Overhearing the rude and sexually explicit comments from the other bachelors in the audience Jake makes the winning bid to protect Hanna from the a potential disaster but Hanna isn’t impressed when she discovers Jake is the winning bid. What ensues is the building relationship and romance between Jake and Hanna, and the potential fall-out as Hanna is targeted for who she is, and who she knows.

Hanna Masterson is twenty six years old and believes she will find her soul-mate at the charity bachelorette auction but what she never anticipated was her life-long crush, a man who rejected her years before. Hanna made a list of attributes for a potential mate but Jake didn’t check all of the boxes including family and future stability. Jake Hendrix doesn’t do relationships: constantly on duty and ready to go at a moments notice, Jake isn’t willing to force any partner to deal with the emotional ramifications of going it –alone.

The relationship between Jake and Hanna is one of immediate attraction but Jake’s rejection of Hanna years earlier still hurts, a hurt Hanna struggles to forget. But one night together results in an unplanned pregnancy, and Jake finds himself protector of the woman with whom he will fall in love, and the child she now carries. When threats against Hanna become violent and physical, Jake calls in help from people he knows.

COMING TO HER RESCUE is a story of family, heart break, betrayal and control. The premise is engaging; the characters are energetic; the romance struggles in the face of indecision, and the back and forth emotional upheaval of want, need, independence and control. The conflict resolution was a little too clean and neat- I was hoping for something more.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviews by Sandy

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How To Forgive a Highlander by Michelle McLean – a Review

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How To Forgive a Highlander by Michelle McLean – a Review

 

Amazon / B&N / Kobo / BAM / Book Depository / iTunes / Google Play

 

Description:
William MacGregor will lie, spy, and happily die to protect his clan from their greatest enemy. But when he kidnaps the wrong woman, he triggers the very events he’d been working so hard to prevent. And puts everyone in danger. Rose Thatcher will do anything to protect her lady and return them both safely to English soil. But the damn Highlander who snatched her off the docks has done nothing but get in her way. She’d love to ditch the bastard, but if they want to save their respective loved ones, they are going to have to stay together. Somewhere along the grueling journey to Scotland, their constant bickering turns into something more. Something worth fighting for. But how can an English lady’s maid, who longs for the safe, comfortable life she had in London, find love with a Highlander who can’t wait to wipe England’s dust off his feet? If they can’t defeat the enemy they accidentally led home, they might not live long enough to find out.

Each book in the MacGregor Lairds series is STANDALONE:
* How to Lose a Highlander
* How to Ensnare a Highlander
* How to Blackmail a Highlander
* How to Forgive a Highlander

 

 

Review:

I’d read the third book in The MacGregor Lairds Series by Michelle McLean (How to Blackmail a Highlander), and enjoyed it. So I started the kindle up and jumped in to read How to Forgive a Highlander…. 

William loves his clan, there is nothing he wouldn’t do to keep them all safe. So with that in mind, he plans to kidnap a lady, but grabs the wrong one, and so the plot goes from bad to worse, she is nothing but a pain in her arse, but he is drawn to her, and when they aren’t fighting, he is rather intrigued with her (even though she drives him mad!)

Rose is a lady’s maid (someone who dresses and accompanies a lady, like a companion but at the Ladies beck and call) and truly loves her charge, there isn’t much she wouldn’t do to protect her, and after she’s kidnapped, Rose is worried about her lady even more.

And this “man” has a lot to account for. How dare he do this, her temper gets her into trouble a few times, but when they aren’t taking shots at each other, she recognizes Will’s love for his clan and his good intentions. 

But what does this mean for our couple? William longs for Scotland, and Rose wants to return to London. Is this just a “Highland Fling” ? Or will they be able to compromise? 

How To Forgive a Highlander runs alongside book 3, it has almost the same timeline. It’s well written by McLean and very detailed. 

Reviewed by Julie B

Copy provided by Publisher

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In It To Win It (Wynn Hockey #2) by Kelly Jamieson-a review

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In It to Win It (Wynn Hockey #2) by Kelly Jamieson-a review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 23, 2019

JP Wynn: I admit, I’ve made some bad choices—on and off the ice.
Now all I want to do is show my team I can control my emotions while I’m playing and redeem myself with my family, especially with my brother, Théo.
I hate that I hurt him and I’m determined to stay out of trouble.
But the hot bridesmaid at Théo’s wedding is tempting me into another bad decision.
A little flirting and a hook up with Taylor seem harmless . . . until Manny Martinez jumps me on the dance floor and starts beating the crap out of me.
And just like that I add one more bad decision to my résumé.

Taylor Hart: I always thought hockey players were hot. Now I think they’re crazy.
Manny broke my heart when he got traded to another team and left without even a goodbye.
Then he showed up at my best friend’s wedding. All I wanted to do was show Manny that I was over him.
And the groom’s sexy brother, JP, seemed more than willing to be my distraction.
But after the way everything went down, I want nothing to do with any of them.
Easier said than done. Especially when Lacey’s new brother-in-law is always around. . . .
And I keep thinking about the wedding night, when we snuck away to his room for the best sex of my life.

•••••••••

REVIEW:IN IT TO WIN IT is the second instalment in Kelly Jamieson’s contemporary, adult WYNN HOCKEY erotic, romance hockey series focusing on the Wynn family hockey dynasty, owners and operators of the NHL’s California Condors, and the Long Beach Golden Eagles. This is twenty-six year old, Long Beach Golden Eagles, professional hockey player Jean Paul ‘JP’ Wynn, and twenty-four year old speech pathologist Taylor Hart’s story line. IN IT TO WIN IT can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual first person perspectives (JP and Taylor) IN IT TO WIN IT follows the acrimonious relationship between twenty six year old, Long Beach Golden Eagles professional hockey player Jean Paul ‘JP’ Wynn, and twenty-four year old speech pathologist Taylor Hart. JP’s brother Theo married his sweetheart Lacey Olson but a one-night stand between JP and Taylor Hart resulted in a dance floor brawl between JP and Taylor’s former beau, a brawl that left JP struggling to understand what went wrong and why. Believing he once again found himself in a relationship with a woman already spoken for, JP goes on the defensive when Taylor refuses to admit what happened or why. Weeks to months will pass where JP and Taylor will cross paths, paths that will soon lead to a second chance at romance and love. What ensues is the building relationship between Taylor and JP, and the potential fall-out when Taylor reveals the truth about the night where everything went all to h*ll.

JP Wynn struggles with both his on and off ice persona; a reputation as a man-whore who ‘stole’ his brother’s girlfriend, recent events place JP back in the dog house with his family, his teammates and the woman with whom he had hoped to see again. Taylor Hart’s life is about to spiral out of control but her on-again, off-again friendship slash relationship with JP Wynn is threatened by the secrets she keeps hidden to herself. When a former boyfriend discovers the relationship between JP and Taylor, JP finds himself targeted for sins of the past.

The relationship between JP and Taylor is one of immediate attraction but JP’s reputation precedes his introduction to our story line heroine. Taylor battles between head and heart as she struggles to forget about the man with whom she will fall in love. The $ex scenes are intimate, passionate and intense, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are once again, reintroduced to the large extended and slightly dysfunction Wynn family including Theo and Lacey;Grandpa Bob Wynn, and coach /uncle Mark Wynn.

IN IT TO WIN IT is a story of family, secrets, lies and revelations. The premise is engaging and captivating; the characters are charismatic and colorful; the romance is seductive but Taylor’s puzzling actions hurt our hero more than once but several times over.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one PLAY TO WIN.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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All Roads Lead to You by Jennifer Probst-Review & Excerpt Tour

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All Roads Lead to You by Jennifer Probst-Review and Excerpt Tour

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

Add to GoodReads: http://bit.ly/2tMYruI

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 23, 2019

Happily single, Harper Bishop trusts in only one passion—her rescue farm and healing her thoroughbred, Phoenix. Her dream is to lead him to the Triple Crown. But how unreachable is it without experience or help? A handsome new guest at her family’s B&B has what it takes to make it come true. And with his irresistible brogue, warm smile, and soothing touch, he’s a major distraction.

After a bitter betrayal, horse trainer Aidan O’Connor has fled Ireland for a vacation in New York’s Hudson Valley. When he sees the horse with the fighting spirit, he’s inspired with a new goal: to train Phoenix to win. He’s also facing an unexpected new challenge: his feelings for Harper.

How can she dare to open her heart to a man who’ll be there only long enough to break it?

So Harper and Aidan agree: try to keep it professional, and focus only on Phoenix and the finish line. But along the way, they could also learn a few lessons in love, trust, and taking chances. And, as painful as it promises to be, saying goodbye.

•••••••••

REVIEW: ALL ROADS LEAD TO YOU is the third instalment in Jennifer Probst’s contemporary adult STAY erotic, romance series. This is rescue farm owner Harper Bishop, and Irish horse trainer Aidan O’ Connor’s story line. ALL ROADS LEAD TO YOU can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information form the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Harper and Aidan) ALL ROADS LEAD TO YOU follows horse trainer, Irishman Aidan O’Connor as he looks for his next challenge. Having left Ireland under mysterious circumstance, Aidan finds himself in New York’s Hudson Valley, at the Bishop family B&B, where his future is about to change. Enter animal rescuer and rehabber Harper Bishop, and the woman with whom Aidan will fall in love. What ensues is the professional and romantic relationship between Aidan and Harper, and the potential fall –out as neither one is looking for a permanent relationship beyond the present.

Harper Bishop struggles with Phoenix, a difficult horse whose abusive past has left him skittish and broken. Meeting Aidan O’Connor finds Harper reconsidering Phoenix’s future, as well as her own future with the man with whom she will fall in love. As Aidan begins training Phoenix for a run at the Derby, Harper begins to let down the walls surrounding her heart.

The relationship between Aidan and Harper is one of immediate attraction but neither one is in a place for romance or love. Aidan has been burned by his former partner, and lover; and Harper’s past doesn’t allow her to trust the ministrations of a man who is only in America for a limited time. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are reintroduced to Harper’s sister and B&B owner Ophelia Bishop and Kyle Kimpton (A Brand New Ending#2), Ethan Bishop and his wife Mia: f summer ranch hands Chloe, and newcomer Owen; Aidan’s former business partner Colin Flynn, as well as a assortment of townsfolk and busybodies.

ALL ROADS LEAD TO YOU is a story of family, friendship, struggle and promise. The premise is engaging and entertaining: the romance is seductive and captivating: the characters are energetic, cautious and hopeful.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
The Start of Something Good
A Brand New Ending
All Roads Lead to You

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Ignoring her tingling nipples and flip-flopping belly, she threw back her shoulders and rose to full height. “I clearly remember having this same conversation a few weeks ago,” she said, trying not to let her voice wobble. “We agreed to keep it strictly business.”
“We did. But it’s getting harder for me not to touch you.”
Her heart galloped in her chest. Sweat pricked her skin. She remained silent, tangled between her head and her heart.
A rough laugh escaped his lips. “This would be easier on my ego if you’d admit you’re having the same problem.”
She shook her head and pressed her fisted hands against her eyes. “You sure don’t know the art of subtlety, do you?”
He shrugged. “No time for that shit. Well?”
She let out a half laugh, half groan. “I think this is the strangest conversation I’ve had with a man.”
“Are you hot for me, Harper?” His voice was all grit and gravel and sexy as hell.
Lust speared through her, raw and hungry and demanding. “Yeah.”
“Good. I’m obsessed with kissing you. So I have a proposal.”
“Of course you do.”
“One kiss. Let’s try it out. Maybe it’ll bomb once we give ourselves permission,” he said.
“I’m swooning from your romantic intentions.”
His lips kicked up in a grin. She wanted to trace her finger over his mouth to see if it was as soft as it looked. “Sorry. What do you think?”
“I think I’ve stepped into a new dimension. Tell me this, Irish. Do we want the kiss to bomb?”
He nodded. Eased closer. “I think it would be for the best. Neither of us wants a complication in our solid business partnership. We have a long road ahead of us. Sex makes things messy.”
Her brow shot up. Oh, he was good. Pretending to be all rational and cool while he stalked her like a graceful panther. Her blood grew thick and heavy, and the throbbing between her thighs raged. The real problem revolved around one simple, plain fact.
She was dying to kiss Aidan O’Connor.
Just once.
The tiny voice inside her flared to life and whispered a warning.: One kiss will never be enough. Not from this man. Not with the way you already feel about him.
God, she didn’t want to listen to reason right now.
Harper tilted her head. “True. If the kiss fails, we can get back to work without all this bullshit. Move on and focus on the real relationship here.”
“Phoenix,” he said.
“Exactly. Can you promise one thing?”
He took a few more steps. His scent wrapped around her like a silken cloud, spicy and clean and addicting. The leashed heat from his body practically ripped a purr from her throat. She curled her fingers, digging her nails into her palms to try and hold back from jumping into his arms.
“What do you need me to promise, love?”
A shiver worked down her spine. She imagined that lilting brogue whispering dirty commands in her ear while he thrust deep inside her. “If the kiss sucks, no hurt feelings. We move on and don’t talk about it. I can’t take any weirdness between us.”
“Agreed. I hate weird.”
He was right there, face close, inches from her body. The last time he was this close, he was angry. This time, his eyes crackled with hunger. His powerful thighs braced hers, and when he leaned in, his hard erection pressed against the seam of his jeans so she felt every glorious inch of promise. She licked her lips in anticipation, and slowly raised her arms to hook around his shoulders.
“Just once,” she whispered in warning.
He cupped her cheeks with rough, calloused palms. His amber gaze locked on hers. “Yes.”
“We’ll get it out of our system and move on.”
“Harper?”
“Yeah?”
“Shush.”
His mouth closed over hers.

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Jennifer ProbstJennifer Probst is the New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of both sexy and erotic contemporary romance. She was thrilled her novel, The Marriage Bargain, was the #6 Bestselling Book on Amazon for 2012. Her first children’s book, Buffy and the Carrot, was co-written with her 12 year old niece, and her short story, “A Life Worth Living” chronicles the life of a shelter dog. She makes her home in New York with her sons, husband, two rescue dogs, and a house that never seems to be clean. She loves hearing from all readers! Stop by her website at http://www.jenniferprobst.com for all her upcoming releases, news and street team information.

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