Monthly Archives: August 2019

The Secret About Time by Kathryn K. Murphy – a Review

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The Secret About Time by Kathryn K. Murphy – a Review

 

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Description:
Austin Brooks is almost one hundred-years-old, but he, like all of the residents of Brightrock Island, doesn’t age normally. The tight-knit community off the coast of Massachusetts has a closely-guarded secret—they’ve discovered the fountain of youth. In an effort to escape his painful memories of World War II, Austin has settled into his job at Brightrock’s only school as the funny guy, Mr. Fix It, on track to becoming a principal. Then new teacher Caitlyn Landry arrives from the mainland, throwing all life on Brightrock—especially Austin’s—into chaos. 

After suffering several major losses, Caitlyn is looking for a fresh start. Brightrock doesn’t take kindly to outsiders, but Caitlyn was a necessary hire, and when Austin is tasked with mentoring her, he discovers keeping his lips sealed is easier said than done. With her own regrets and mistakes haunting her, Caitlyn is hardly looking for love, but the more time she spends with Austin, the harder it is for either of them to keep their distance. But what no one on Brightrock knows is that someone is on to their secret, someone who poses a threat to everyone on the island, leaving Austin to decide between his loyalty to Brightrock and his desire to fight for the woman he can’t live without. 

 

 

Review:

A Secret About Time by Kathryn K. Murphy is the first book in her new The Firemark series.

To look at Austin, you wouldn’t think he was nearly one hundred years old!!! Time and the residents of Brightrock are different from “outsiders” it’s a slower pace, and the residents age differently too. 

Austin is a jack of all trades at the school, nothing he can’t turn his hand too, he’s worked hard to forget his past, and becoming principal at the school will keep him pretty occupied. So when members of his community tell Austin they’ve hired an “outsider” to teach at the school, he’s not too keen, he is not keen at all!!! They have too many secrets to keep from the new teacher, it’s going to be tough. Will Austin rise above it? 

Caitlyn needs a break, the death of her beloved parents, and another death after losing them was really hard (she felt guilty about the other death for some reason)

And this seems like too good an opportunity to miss. But on the way over to the island, she’s hit with doubts. And meeting Austin doesn’t help, she gets the distinct impression she’s not welcome!! 

Both settle into the roles they are given, and try to keep out out of each other’s way, but with fate playing its hand, it’s not long till they start bumping into each other. 

Caitlyn still feels like an outsider, the role she’s taken on doesn’t really feel like hers, it feels like she’s only there till the person she’s filling in for comes back!! And her feelings for Austin confuse her too, but she can’t get involved, it hurts to lose someone you love.

Austin is beginning to look at Caitlyn in a different way. She’s smart, fun and totally hot. And after seeing her in a World War II outfit, Austin wants more than a kiss, much more ……

But something or someone has noticed the residents on Brightrock are different. What is in store for Austin and the islanders? And how will it involve Caitlyn? 

I really enjoyed this book. Well written, and very descriptive. Hoping this isn’t that last time we visit Brightrock. 

Reviewed by Julie B.

Copy supplied for review.

 

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BLOOD TRUTH (Black Dagger Legacy #4) by JR Ward- a review

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BLOOD TRUTH (Black Dagger Legacy #4) by JR Ward-a review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 13, 2019

As a trainee in the Black Dagger Brotherhood’s program, Boone has triumphed as a soldier and now fights side by side with the Brothers. Following his sire’s unexpected death, he is taken off rotation against his protests—and he finds himself working with Butch O’Neal, former homicide cop, to catch a serial killer: Someone is targeting females of the species at a live action role play club. When the Brotherhood is called in to help, Boone insists on being a part of the effort—and the last thing he expects is to meet an enticing, mysterious female…who changes his life forever.

Ever since her sister was murdered at the club, Helania has been committed to finding the killer, no matter the danger she faces. When she crosses paths with Boone, she doesn’t know whether to trust him or not—and then she has no choice. As she herself becomes a target, and someone close to the Brotherhood is identified as the prime suspect, the two must work to together to solve the mystery…before it’s too late. Will a madman come between the lovers or will true love and goodness triumph over a very mortal evil?

••••••••

REVIEW: BLOOD TRUTH is the fourth instalment in JR Ward’s contemporary, adult BLACK DAGGER LEGACY paranormal, romance series focusing on an elite group of warriors in training. This is Rexboone ‘Boone’ son of Altamere, and Helania’s story line. BLOOD TRUTH can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. The Black Dagger Legacy Series is a spin-off from, and runs parallel to the author’s Black Dagger Brotherhood series. Several characters cross-over for cohesion and history.

Told from several third person perspectives including Boone and Helania, BLOOD TRUTH follows the search for a killer; a possible serial killer who is targeting young, female vampires at an underground club (Pyre’s Revyval) catering to vampire wanna-bes. An anonymous phone call to the Black Dagger Brotherhood pulls Boone into his first murder assignment, an assignment that brings our hero face to face with his fated mate. Enter Helania, a vampire female who is searching for person who killed her only sister. What ensues is the building relationship between Helania and Boone, and the potential fall-out as the killer is closer than anyone could have imagined.

Boone knows loss having suffered his mother’s mysterious death, and the recent murder of his sire but meeting Helania stirs something within Boone he could never have imagined, something that would bring our couple closer together towards their own happily ever after. Helania has struggled in the eight months since her sister’s murder. Desperate to learn the truth, Helania goes ‘undercover’ at the local club in search of the person responsible for destroying her life.

Meanwhile, Boone’s life at home spirals out of control when a number of the Glymera (rich and powerful vampires) are murdered including the man he has come to call father. As Boone prepares to send his father into the ‘Fade’, our hero will discover that his father kept many secrets, secrets that are about to be revealed.

The relationship between Boone and Helania is one of immediate attraction but Helania becomes a suspect when Butch O’Neal’s experience as a detective tells him Helania knows more than she is willing to reveal. Protective of the female he will come to call mate, Boone’s need to bond will be overridden by Helania’s need to remain independent and strong. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large and familiar ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including several members of the Black Dagger Brotherhood (Wrath, Butch, Tohr, V, Rhage, Dr. Havers, Doc Jane, Saxton) as well as the ever popular doggen Fritz; BoB’s Zypher, Syn and Balthazar; the re-appearance of Boone’s fellow trainees, as well as Boone’s friend Rochelle; his father Altamere, and the numerous members of the Altamere household including his father’s butler Marquist.

BLOOD TRUTH is a story of betrayal, revenge, family and blood. Secrets are revealed; vengeance takes aim at the innocent and young. The premise is engaging, entertaining and energetic: the romance is seductive and intense; the characters are familiar, dynamic, and colorful.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Blood Kiss
Blood Vow
Blood Fury
Blood Truth

Copy supplied by the publisher

Reviewed by Sandy

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Seducing the Billionaire (The Blue Room #1) by JM Stewart-a review

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Seducing the Billionaire (The Blue Room #1) by JM Stewart -a review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 6, 2019

When her ex leaves her with a wounded ego, curvy tech writer Jenna Mancini sets out to prove to herself that she’s just as sexy as any size six. With an invitation to Seattle’s hottest new club, a place that promises no risk, no commitment, no holds barred, she sets her sights on the one man who can help her test her theory—the only man at a sex club who doesn’t participate.

Billionaire Hunter Thane has a secret only a select few know: a fear of being touched. A rough childhood has left him scarred, inside and out, and he’s resigned himself to a life alone. So while he can’t deny he finds Jenna incredibly sexy, he’s determined to save her from the disappointment of an encounter with him.

Jenna is every bit as determined to push all his hot buttons and see if she can crush his iron-clad will

•••••••••

REVIEW: SEDUCING THE BILLIONAIRE is the first instalment in J. M. Stewart’s contemporary, adult THE BLUE ROOM erotic, romance series focusing on the exclusive $ex club The Blue Room. This is billionaire, club co-owner Hunter Thane, and tech writer Jenna Mancini’s story line.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Jenna and Hunter) SEDUCING THE BILLIONAIRE follows the building but struggling relationship between billionaire, club co-owner Hunter Thane, and tech writer Jenna Mancini. Jenna Mancini struggles with issues of low self-esteem reinforced by the emotional abusive actions of her latest ex. With an invitation to the exclusive Blue Room $ex club, Jenna finds herself attracted to a man whose demons continue to control his life. Enter the Blue Room co-owner and billionaire Hunter Thane. What ensues is the building but anguished filled relationship between Hunter and Jenna, and the potential fall-out as Hunter is unable to let go of the memories; and Jenna’s past returns forcing our heroine to question her relationship with Hunter Thane.

Jenna Mancini is a woman with curves but her ex boyfriend destroyed any semblance of self-esteem with his constant belittling of her size. Meeting Hunter Thane finds our heroine struggling with issues of trust, issues that are reinforced with Hunter’s actions and inability to move beyond the past. Hunter Thane doesn’t do relationships in the face the disastrous fall-out of what was and what could have been. Struggling to move beyond the heart break and pain, including his fear of being touched, Hunter battles his fear as he slowly finds himself falling for our story line heroine.

The relationship between Jenna and Hunter begins as an arrangement; a ‘sex’ only arrangement that turns into something more as Hunter learns to let go, moving forward towards a happily ever after. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate, without the use of over the top sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to Jenna’s best friend Selene, as well as Hunter’s business partners: Jake, Liam and Max. There may or may not be a relationship developing between Jake and Selene.

SEDUCING THE BILLIONAIRE is a story of betrayal, heart break, falling in love and letting go of the past. The premise is engaging; the romance is steamy but I struggled to feel the palpable sexual attraction perhaps due in part to the continuous reminders of Jenna and Hunter’s damaged self-esteem and heavy hearts ; the characters are broken but recovering.

copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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The Legacy/ Fae Hunter by Amelia Shaw-Reviews & Guest Post

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The Legacy / Fae Hunter (Slayer Academy) by Amelia Shaw-Review and Guest Post

THE LEGACY
Slayer Academy Year 1
by Amelia Shaw
Genre:new adult, paranormal
Release Date: July 1, 2019

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

From nerdy bookworm to Fae Slayer in training.

My life is carefully planned, and blissfully free of surprises. I hate surprises.

Discovering I come from a long line of Fae Slayers and must give up my position at a prestigious college to attend a Slayer Academy?

Worst. Surprise. Ever.

I’m a nerd. A bookworm. I slay with words, not swords.

Fighting to stay at the top of the class is nothing compared to fighting to survive.

If the deadly weapons and mysteriously hot, but possibly evil guys don’t kill me, then six months without cell reception might.

He haunts my dreams… His eyes pierce my soul.. but will my sword have to pierce his heart?

Megara’s battle to survive Slayer Academy has just begun. Weapons classes, unexpected passion, and forbidden love await in The Legacy…

The legacy is the first book in a New Adult, college-age paranormal academy series. Expect magic lessons, a bookworm heroine, a sexy scene or two,and a slow-burn forbidden love romance

***Author note – this series is three novella length urban fantasy books. Recommended 17+ due to language and love scenes.

•••••••••••

REVIEW: Reading the back cover, I got the impression of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. I liked that show, so I flipped the kindle open and dived in…..

Megara (or Meg to her friends)is not a kick ass warrior woman, Meg is a book worm, she’s not use to fighting and certainly not monsters. But we are getting ahead of ourselves. Let’s go back …..

Meg is off to do a gap year before deciding what’s next in her life she very excited. But her whole world is about to change, and in her opinion, not for the better.

She’s unaware that both her parents are Fae slayers (and are pretty good at their job) and it’s time for their daughter to leave this life and enrol in Slayer Academy, to say that Megara is shocked and displeased is an understatement…… she’s thinking it’s a big joke, but as it sinks in, she realises her family are serious, they are going to shop her off to some school….

Arriving at the front of the academy Megara is in awe of the building, but she’s also a little apprehensive, it doesn’t look too friendly, and the nerves Meg had been suppressing, come back big a bang (this is all some terrible dream).

We meet other class mates (and that wasn’t a great first meeting) they aren’t impressed, the Callum’s are great warriors and hunters of the Fae, and Meg, well she’s a big disappointment!!!

We then read all the fun times (not) with weaponry (she’s no good with swords) and her hand to hand skills are a joke!!! But the other lessons, Meg is a keen student and makes the grades.

And it’s not teenage angst unless there is a love story…. and this one will be a forbidden one, why? Is Fiore Fae ? And if so, that’s a big NO NO in the slayer world, they can’t and shouldn’t be together, but you try telling a teenager NO?and Fiore (that’s the hunks name) is definitely worth disobeying everyone for. There is just something about him (besides being hot) there is a connection Megara has never felt with anyone before. But there is also that element of danger that keeps Meg from falling too deep.
We also have Brutus (a student at the school) there is definitely a spark between them, so we could have a love triangle?

Oh and did I mention a Legacy? (Well the title does give it away) it’s her legacy, five generations of her family have attended and have slain the evil Fae. Is there more to her legacy (I have a feeling there is)

So if you like heroines that’s aren’t warriors, that are nerds first and foremost, then you definitely need to pick this book up.

And book two….. if it’s half as good as this one, then I’m in.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B ?

__________

FAE HUNTER
Slayer Academy Year 2
by Amelia Shaw
Genre:new adult, paranormal
Release Date: August 1, 2019

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From Fae Slayer to renegade rebel.
Slayer Academy 101:
•The Fae are evil
•A Slayer must trust their instincts.

Well, my instincts are flashing like a neon sign—the Academy can’t be trusted.
I’ve glimpsed the true heart of a Fae prince. Fiore is kind, merciful and saved my life.
Now he’s missing.

Journeying to the Fae realm is treacherous, especially with Nyeer, the Fae prince who tried to kill me.
But loathing soon turns to lust and Nyeer strips away my defenses—along with my clothes— until my heart’s in just as much danger as my life.

This Fae Slaying gig is not all it’s cracked up to be.
Magic lessons and weapons classes were child’s play compared to the fight to rescue Fiore and protect the Fae Kingdom.
And to save three Fae princes, their Kingdom’s only defense… I may have to give them up forever.

Author warning: This book is much hotter than book 1. ***Fae Hunter is the second book in a College-age Paranormal Reverse Harem Academy series.

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: Reading the description I got the distinct impression our Meg is turning into a little slut!!! (Well she slept with Brutus, she’s been having sexy dreams about Fiore, and now she’s turned her attention to Nyeer) I can’t keep up with the girl?

We start this book at the beginning of a new term, Meg has just spent the last two weeks at her parents, catching up with her BFF and family. But now she’s back, her mission is clear …… Find evidence that the Fae aren’t as bad as the history books say they are.

Megara/Meg has decided that she’s not going to hunt and kill the evil Fae, she’s going to find out what the truth is, and she feels like the Fae have had a raw deal for centuries. But proving it will be difficult, she can’t tell her roommates, she can’t tell Brutus (sparring partner and part time lover) she can’t even ask the librarian. She’s on this mission alone. She just needs to speak to Fiore or Nyeer (one of the Fae leaders)

She gets her wish sooner than she anticipated, a portal opens and a figure emerges…..

Fiore is missing!!! Meg needs to do something, she feels like it’s her fault. She needs to do research whilst waiting for Nyeer to return in three days time.

After meeting up with Nyeer, he takes her back to his castle (he is one of the three princes that rules the Fae kingdom, Fiore being one of the others)
Teaching Meg defence movements has her all hot and bothered, and before you know it Meg and Nyeer are going at it like bunny rabbits (this not I found a bit disconcerting, if there is a connection between Fiore and Meg, why is she in bed with Nyeer?)

The third prince (Everly) makes an appearance at the castle and is disgusted that no one is looking for the third Prince (Fiore) Meg is feeling really guilty and steps up the attempts to find Fiore……
With luck and a little magic, they find where Fiore is being held, and plan a rescue.

Do they rescue Fiore? Will Megara have to chose? And who will it be?
And boy is it a cliffhanger ending……

This book is more racier than the first, it felt like it was heading towards a reverse harem (three guys one woman)

copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B?

Hi guys! Thank you so much for asking me to do a post today. I’ve been writing on and off for ten years, and have been published for the last six years or so.

Follow: Facebook / Website / Bookbub Instagram /

I write under several pen names, and my other PNR one is Tamsin Baker, but I leave that pseudonym for more of my LGBT or unusual projects now.

My latest series is – the Slayer Academy.

A college aged- New adult, Paranormal Academy serial. A trilogy. It’s my first ever New adult story, so it’s been challenging to get the themes and language right.

Not to mention the fact I’d never written about the Fae before. I loved the idea of the touch of magic, other realms and beautiful men. I mean- who doesn’t? But getting the balance right was hard as well.

Question 1. Cover Images-do you believe a cover image can make or break a book sale?

I do. I am a massive cover art collector. I love pre-mades and have over ten files sitting in my old downloads that I know I’ll never use- but HAD to buy them at the time. Without thought to market or genre- I just wanted them.

I think you have to have an appealing cover- but it also has to tell the person looking at it- exactly what the book is about in the two second glance we give a new cover.

I do like my covers for this series- but since launching them I’ve acknowledged that I will need to hire a higher priced, more photoshop trained designer for my next series.

Question 2. Balancing writing and family.

Hmmm… well, to answer this question correctly, I will have to reveal that I live in an unusual family situation. My relationship is a closed poly triad, with my husband and our live in partner/girlfriend. My husband has four grown children, I have two biological children and I help raise my girlfriends two children. So in short, we have three adults, four children under ten and I have a day job as well.

How do I balance it all? Prioritise. I have a cleaner- my girlfriend and I share the washing, the cooking, the shopping. I try to write in pockets of time I have when my kids are asleep, at school, or at their fathers.

My writing is a passion, a need, a must. I can’t… not write. So, like with all passions, I think you find the time. Even if it means I don’t watch much tv, but I always have quality time with my kids and my partners.

That’s my priority as I work towards publishing and writing full time.

Thanks for your time! And I hope you enjoy one, some or ALL of my books!

Tamsin Baker aka Amelia Shaw aka Fiona Myers

 

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KOSTYA (Her Russian Protector #7) by Roxie Rivera-a review

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KOSTYA (Her Russian Protector #7) by Roxie Rivera- a review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 12, 2019

After a nightmare blind date, hair stylist Holly Phillips swears off men. The only problem with that plan? Her mysterious and sinfully sexy neighbor Kostya who appeared from the shadows and saved her on that cold, scary night.

Russian covert operative turned infamous mob cleaner Kostya Antonovich lives his life by one major rule: Don’t Get Involved. But when the lies surrounding Holly’s birth begin to unravel, Kostya’s only choice is to break that rule and break it hard.

He’ll use every last tool in that sinister black bag of his to protect Holly from a cartel hit squad and the notorious KGB operative who has escaped a grim Russian prison to seek his revenge.

For her, he’ll risk it all.

•••••••••

REVIEW: KOSTYA is the seventh instalment in Roxie Rivera’s contemporary, adult HER RUSSIAN PROTECTOR Russian romance series. This is Russian mob cleaner Konstantin ‘Kostya’ Antonovich, and hair stylist Holly Phillips’ story line. KOSTYA can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous storylines is revealed where necessary but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and cohesion.

Told from first person point of view (Holly), and third person (Kostya) KOSTYA follows the building relationship and romance between neighbors Russian mob cleaner Konstantin ‘Kostya’ Antonovich, and hair stylist Holly Phillips. Kostya Antonovich knows war approaches, and Holly has been targeted for sins of the past. Hoping to protect the woman that calls to his heart, Kostya calls in a favor using his team of ‘spiders’ to safeguard our heroine from the Cartel and the former KGB. What ensues is the building romance between Kostya and Holly, and the potential fall-out as more than one player is aiming their sights on Holly Phillips.

Holly Phillips struggles with her true identity. Having never met her father, our heroine is unaware of her family history, history that is about to crash into the present. As a salon owner and hair stylist Holly caters to the wives of the local Russian mob but Holly’s connections go much deeper than friendship, a familial relationship is about to be exposed. Kostya Antonovich is a cleaner; he does the dirty work necessary to protect the people with whom he works and works for. Meeting Holly Phillips stirs something deep within our story line hero, something he prefers to remain dormant and cold.

The relationship between Holly and Kostya is a friends to lovers but a relationship wherein Kostya is both protector and guardian of the woman with whom he is falling in love. Desperate to keep Holly out of the life he was born to do, Kostya continues to push Holly at every opportunity but our heroine is intent on placing herself in danger for the people she loves. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate and seductive.

There is a large ensemble cast of familiar secondary and supporting characters including Nikolai and Vivian, Ten, Boychenko, Artyom, and several wives (Bianca, Erin, Benny and Lena) and significant others, and members of the Russian mob. We are introduced to Holly’s mother Frances Phillips; Holly’s employees Nisha, Billie, Savannah, Peyton as well as Kostya’s team of ‘spiders’: Fox, Sunny, Maxine, Lana and Lobo; Gabe Reyes; and numerous members of the Mexican Cartel, and local interconnected gangs. There is a slight cross-over with the author’s Fighting Connollys series, and the cameo appearance of Finn Connolly. For first time readers they numerous characters and ‘nicknames’ may be overwhelming, which is the reason I recommend reading the series in order.

The world building continues to focus on the Russian mob; their family, friendship, connections, love and protection .

KOSTYA is a story of secrets and lies; betrayal and vengeance; retribution and acceptance. The premise is engaging and energetic; the romance is steamy and hot; the characters are dynamic and captivating. On that note, it is close to two and half years since the last instalment, and the story lines have been released out of order so a re-read may be necessary to reconcile a number of plot points.

Own a copy

Reviewed by Sandy

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Imitation of Life by Felice Stevens-Review & Giveaway tour

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Imitation of Life (Rock Bottom #2) by Felice Stevens-Review & Giveaway tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 10, 2019

Benny DeMarco is the nicest guy you’ll ever meet. He works hard, takes care of his little sister, and pays the bills. Childhood bullies and an abusive stepfather invade his dreams, and at times he wishes life would grant him a do-over. Would he like a boyfriend? You bet. But Benny knows love isn’t for him. He’s been looked over, looked through, and looked past all his life. Even worse, the one guy he’s been in love with for almost two years is the biggest flirt who will sleep with anyone. Anyone except Benny.

Gino Acosta smiles to keep from crying. Everyone he meets tells him he’s beautiful and sexy, but Gino knows the truth. His outside may be perfect, but inside he feels dirty and unworthy. Bounced around as a child, he yearns for someone to love and a family to call his own. He hops from man to man, desperate to belong, believing the lies he’s told, but all he finds is a body for an hour or two. Things would be so different if only he knew—the man he’s searching for is waiting for him, right under his nose.

Benny starts dating the “perfect guy”and it’s okay if there’s no spark—that’ll happen eventually. Won’t it? Gino’s fast-paced modeling career has taken off, but once again, he’s trading his body for a dream. When Gino’s world explodes, Benny must fight for what and who he really wants. Gino must learn to trust what people tell him—that he’s got so much more to offer than a pretty face and a moment of pleasure.

If all your life you believe you’re nothing, how do you move past heartbreak and hardship to reach for everything?

••••••••

REVIEW:IMITATION OF LIFE is the second instalment in Felice Stevens’ contemporary, adult ROCK BOTTOM erotic, MM, romance series. This is twenty-six year old, Benny DeMarco, and twenty-seven year old, Gino Acosta’s story line. IMITATION OF LIFE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

WARNING: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be some triggers for more sensitive readers including questionable consent, abuse, neglect, assault, power and control.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Benny and Gino) IMITATION OF LIFE follows the building relationship between co-workers Benny DeMarco, and Gino Acosta. Working side by side for close to two years at Hard Core Fitness, Benny has lusted after Gino Acosta, a man whose flirtations and reputation has cast a dark shadow both in and out of the local gym. When Gino’s lifestyle and sexual promiscuity spirals out of control, he may have destroyed any chance of a relationship with the man with whom, he too, had considered his one chance at love. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Gino and Benny, and the potential fall-out as both Gina and Benny must face their fears, and the possibility of losing it all.

Gino Acosta has never known affection or love having been bounced from foster home to foster home most of his young life, and in this he has sought a connection with a series of one-night stands, affairs that have left him empty and lost. A chance at a modelling career destroys what’s left of Gino’s self-esteem, self-esteem that has taken a hit one-too many times. Benny DeMarco knows the struggle of being a gay man in a world where discrimination starts with the family at home. Having to raise his little sister since the death of their mother, Benny struggles to make ends meet including having to withstand the emotional abuse at the hands of their drunken step-father.

The relationship between Benny and Gino is one of immediate attraction but neither one was willing to acknowledge their mutual attraction. Benny watched from the side-lines as Gino was used and abused by a series of men both in and out of the workplace, but the heart wanted more for the man that continued to break his heart. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense.

We are reintroduced to Justin Molina and Foster Harding (Broken Silence #1) as well as a crossover with Oren and Noah (One Call Away #2) and Jeremy and Blake (Perfect #3 ) from the author’s Soulmates Series.

IMITATION OF LIFE is an emotional and heart breaking look at betrayal, struggle, trust and discrimination; of one man’s search for family and love; and one man’s battle to protect the only family he has left. The premise is captivating; the romance is captivating; the characters are broken, colorful, and lost.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one-BROKEN SILENCE

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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I have always been a romantic at heart. I believe that while life is tough, there is always a happy ending around the corner, My characters have to work for it, however. Like life in NYC, nothing comes easy and that includes love.

I live in New York City with my husband and two children and hopefully soon a cat of my own. My day begins with a lot of caffeine and ends with a glass or two of red wine. I practice law but daydream of a time when I can sit by a beach somewhere and write beautiful stories of men falling in love. Although there are bound to be a few bumps along the way, a Happily Ever After is always guaranteed.

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Beauty and the Bayou by Erin Nicholas -Review & Excerpt Tour

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Beauty and the Bayou (Boys of the Bayou #3) by Erin Nicholas-Review Tour

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 13, 2019

A sexy small town, beauty and the beast rom com!

Sawyer Landry knows he’s been beastly to be around for the past few months. But he can’t seem to remember how to be fun-loving and friendly. Until he sees Juliet Dawson on his boat dock… and realizes that hip waders are, apparently, one of his turn-ons. But despite the beauty in the boots, the last thing he needs right now is a city girl in his way for the next two weeks.

But he’s not really getting a vote. Juliet is determined that her little brother rebuild the dock he and his idiot friends smashed. She’s quirky, klutzy, independent… and possibly an even bigger pessimist than Sawyer is. He’s incredibly drawn to the cynical fish-out-of-water, who seems to be the one person who isn’t intimidated by his growling.

The big, gruff boat captain is the first person in a long time to want to watch out for her and Juliet finds that hotter than his grandma’s jambalaya. Well, that and his sexy scar, his emotional baggage, and the sense of humor and fun that is buried deep.

But Sawyer doesn’t need any more people to worry about long-term and the things that make him feel protective of Juliet aren’t going to go away. So, this two-week adventure can’t be anything more than a fling. With Juliet down on the bayou, there’s an even bigger threat than alligators and hurricanes. There’s the very good chance of someone ending up with a broken heart.

••••

REVIEW: BEAUTY AND THE BAYOU is the third instalment in Erin Nicholas’ contemporary, adult BOYS OF THE BAYOU erotic, romance series focusing on the Landry family. This is twenty-seven year old attorney Juliet Dawson, and tour boat operator Sawyer Landry’s story line. BEAUTY AND THE BAYOU can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalments is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Juliet and Sawyer) BEAUTY AND THE BAYOU follows the building relationship between twenty-seven year old attorney Juliet Dawson, and tour boat operator Sawyer Landry. Days earlier Juliet’s younger brother stole a boat and all but destroyed the Landry boat docks. Hoping to make amends without having her brother sent to prison for theft and damage, Juliet sets out to make reparations on her own. Enter Sawyer Landry, the man with whom Juliet will fall in love. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Juliet and Sawyer, and the potential fall-out as Juliet’s fears come to the surface threatening to drown her relationship with the man that she loves.

Juliet Dawson struggles with the repercussions of a childhood illness that continues to affect her daily life. Over protective to the point of obsession, Juliet comes prepared to repair the dock but leaves her heart open to falling in love. Sawyer Landry has been lost since the death of his business partner Tommy Alain, a partner he considered a brother and a friend. Hurting and scarred both inside and out Sawyer battles between head and heart with his attraction to our story line heroine.

The relationship between Sawyer and Juliet is one of immediate attraction but Sawyer was unprepared for the steam-roller that was Juliet Dawson. Desperate to teach her brother a lesson, and keep him out of jail, Juliet all but takes over the dock reparations on her own, and in the process, pulls our hero closer to her heart. The $ex scenes are limited but erotic and passionate, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are reintroduced to the large extended Landry family including Josh and Tori (My Best Friend’s Mardi Gras Wedding #1), Owen and Madison (Sweethome Louisiana #2) , sister Kennedy, grandma Ellie, Aunt Cora and billionaire investor and new business partner Bennett Baxter. Bennett and Kennedy’s story is next in Crazy Rich Cajuns.

The world building continues to focus on the Landry family dynamics; their tour boat operations, and life in the Louisiana Bayou. Grandma Ellie’s bar is the local hang out for family and friends, as well as the local gossip about falling in love and life in Autre, Louisiana.

BEAUTY AND THE BAYOU is a story of family, friendships, acceptance and love. The premise is engaging and captivating; the romance is steamy and hot; the characters are sexy, sassy, and a little bit broken-there is plenty of back and forth snark, double entendre and witty interplay between our leading couple, as well as between the Landry clan.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
My Best Friend’s Mardi Gras Wedding
Sweet Home Louisiana
Beauty and the Bayou

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

“I guess when we need relief from the heat, we go, you know, into the actual shade.” He looked amused. “Among other things.”
“Other things?”
It wasn’t so much that she needed to know other ways to keep cool. But she really liked the way he looked when he was mildly amused. It was a very good look on him.
“Lots of water and sweet tea,” he said.
She gave an involuntary shudder.
His amused smile grew. “No to sweet tea?”
“Not my favorite,” she admitted. “But don’t tell Ellie,” she added quickly.
He chuckled at that. “I would never.”
Yeah, the chuckling was nice, too. “I’ve got the water covered though,” she said.
“Good.”
“Anything else?”
“Well, when we get hot there area couple of other things we do,” he said.
Had he moved closer?
Juliet swallowed. “Like what?”
“We take clothes off,” he said.
Yeah, his voice was definitely deeper now.
“I gue—” She cleared her throat. “I guess that makes sense, but there are bugs and sunburn to consider.”
He gave her a nod. “Sunscreen and bug repellent are important. Cora makes bug repellent that’s amazing.”
Huh. Homemade bug repellent. She might have to give that a try. These people intrigued her, she had to admit. “What about the flying debris?”
Sawyer glanced at the boards behind her. “Yeah, well, I guess we do take some risks down here.”
Ah, ha. “I’d rather be a little hot than dealing with an infection from a piece of wood imbedding itself in my skin and muscle tissue.”
Sawyer paused, then shook his head, almost disbelievingly. “Okay, girl. Then that only leaves one other thing to do when you get too hot.”
“What’s that?”
“Swimming.”
For a moment, looking into Sawyer Landry’s eyes, for the first time since she’d been ten years old, Juliet wanted to take her clothes off and jump into a body of water.
That lasted about twelve seconds. But that was twelve seconds longer than she’d considered doing it to that point.
“I don’t have a swimming suit.”
“You don’t need one. The fewer clothes the cooler you get.”
“Skinny-dipping?” she asked.
“Skinny-dipping,” he confirmed.
“You actually skinny-dip?” she asked.
“Of course.”
Sawyer Landry naked.
She just took a few seconds to relish that thought…and the images that went with it. Skinny-dipping with Sawyer might be the one way she would ever even possibly consider any of that. “Do you have a private pool with lots of chlorine and a maximum depth of three feet?” she asked.
She wondered if being naked but with a life jacket on still counted as skinny-dipping.
“Don’t need a pool when I’ve got a whole bayou in my backyard.”
She shuddered. “There is no way I’m jumping in there. Clothes or not.”
“So, the naked part of skinny-dipping isn’t the problem?” Sawyer asked. “It’s the water?”
“It’s absolutely the water,” she said. It was actually all water, but water where she could see the bottom, touchthe bottom, and that was pumped through a filtration system was tolerable. Maybe. For a short period. With plenty of floatation devices within reach. “I mean, other than just the dirt, there are snakes and alligators and fish…and fish and alligator poopin there.” She frowned. “Do snakes poop? I mean, they probably do, right?”
Sawyer blinked at her. “I’ve never really thought about it.”
She nodded. “They almost have to. And they probably do it in that water, too.” She shuddered again. “No, thank you. There are just places I do notneed dirty bayou water.”
“It’s the poop that’s keeping you from skinny-dippin’?” Sawyer asked, clearly trying not to laugh. “You are really thinking about the wrong thing when it comes to bein’ wet and naked, darlin’.”

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Erin Nicholas has been writing romances almost as long as she’s been reading them. To date, she’s written over thirty sexy, contemporary novels that have been described as “toe-curling,” “enchanting,” “steamy,” and “fun.” She adores reluctant heroes, imperfect heroines, and happily ever afters.

Erin lives in the Midwest, where she enjoys spending time with her husband (who only wants to read the sex scenes in her books), her kids (who will never read the sex scenes in her books), and her family and friends (who claim to be “shocked” by the sex scenes in her books).

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The Nanny Rules by Melynda Price – a Review

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The Nanny Rules by Melynda Price – a Review

 

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Description:
Don’t touch the nanny. It’s one rule I’m most certainly going to break.

Since becoming a single father, I have two things that keep me sane—my daughter Lily and playing football for the NFL. But when my meddling sister hires a nanny without my knowledge, I’m not thrilled to come home and find the woman has taken over my house. Our instant attraction is one more complication I don’t need in my life.

But my daughter loves Amelia, and I will do anything for that tiny munchkin. Even if it means walking around with blue balls most of the time. Why does the nanny have to be so sweet—and drop dead gorgeous? She’s driving me crazy. Never in my life have I wanted a woman more.

I just need to make it through this season. I can do that. Hands free, of course. But then there’s that moment, and I know she’s thinking what I’m thinking and, well, yeah. Screw the rules…

 

Review:

Single father, NFL Browns quarterback Brody Evans comes home from an away game to find a stranger in his kitchen. Amelia Renshaw was hired by Brody’s sister as a nanny for Lilly – Brody’s daughter.

Even though Brody is completely taken by the appearance of Amelia, he does not want a nanny, nor does he want one this attractive.  After calming down, and placing a call to his sister – he realizes that Amelia has a masters in child psychology with special interest in children with PTSD.

Lilly lost her mother in a tragic accident a year ago and both her and Brody are struggling to find a balance and move forward in their lives.  But Brody is struggling for a much different reason. Brody is angry and pissed off after finding out during the accident investigation that his wife was having an affair with a team mate of his.  He has sworn to never allow another woman into his or his daughters life.

But the moment he meets Amelia he already knows that’s going to be an issue. Brody is a straight forward, no nonsense, handsomely built single father. His love for his daughter shows threw this entire story.

When he is away he facetimes with Lilly to read her bedtime stories. But he is also so caught up in his emotions of losing his wife, finding out about her infidelity and trying continue with the wall he has built around himself and Lilly.

Amelia has taken a job as Lilly’s nanny out of necessity more than anything.  Her brother has battled addiction and she has used every ounce of money she had saved to help him get out of situations he seems to find himself in.  While the money is nice, she had no idea how much she would fall for Lilly.  She has her own baggage coming into this, and part of her problem is trying to hold onto secrets she doesn’t want her new boss to find out. 

The chemistry between Brody and Amelia is palpable. I am a huge football fan but have never read a sports romance before this one. It was an enjoyable, fun, steamy read.  I loved how playful the characters were with each other, while fighting the urge to give in to their desires.

This book dealt with a lot of social issues – single parenthood, addiction, adultery and commitment issues.  There is a bit of a struggle between the main characters, but in the end they get their happily ever after.

The Nanny Rules by Melynda Price is a quick read, highly recommend if you need a steamy fast paced, HEA read!

Reviewed by Erin

Copy provided by Publisher

 

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