Monthly Archives: May 2020

Love In the Time of Corona: Vol 2 Anthology – Review

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Love in The Time of Corona: Vol 2 Anthology – Review

 

Amazon

Description:
Seven romances by seven spectacular authors, all set during the coronavirus outbreak. Happy endings guaranteed!
The numbers next to the titles indicate spiciness on a 1-5 scale as judged by each author.

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Defending the Tycoon’s Daughter – Kristi Avalon 4(5) – Romantic Suspense
Escaping a threat against her wealthy family and the global pandemic, Talia Hudson finds herself in an isolated mountain retreat with her handsome, aloof bodyguard. A scandal in Brett’s past gives him good reason to avoid Talia, yet he can’t deny the attraction sparking between them. Will one night of passion lead to regret– or is he ready to risk it all for love?

Review:
Brett is still smarting from his last job, a scandal had him leaving with a black mark on his career and reputation. Joining a new firm, Brett won’t make the same mistake, well that’s what he says, until he sees her….. 

Talia Loves her stepfamily, and all but her stepfather hate her, it’s something she has comes to terms with. And now a threat to her family has her separated from them. Although on the plus side, the new bodyguard is easy on the eyes. 

It’s a fun little read. Bodyguard and heiress is always a little predictable. 

But it’s written well. The fleeting glances, the silent treatment and the denying of ones feelings (and that’s just the bodyguard) 

Loved the video chat with her friends, it’s something a lot of us are doing at the moment. And thank goodness for the canine light relief, you have to love a dog that steers you in the direction of love. 

Luckily we just had the threat of the virus to read and no one came down with it. 

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Ship Mates – Chloe Flowers 2(5) – Contemporary Romance
After a house fire destroys everything she owns, Tara needs a temporary home. In a weak moment, Officer Scott Merrick offers an unorthodox solution: sharing a cabin on his boat. Since he works the graveyard shift and she runs her restaurant during the day, they’ll be like ships passing in the night, which is fine by both of them.
They only communicate by writing notes to each other.
It’s a bad idea to fall in love during a pandemic, but what if they’re soul mates as well as shipmates?

Review: 
Tara is now homeless after a fire. She’s hasn’t got anywhere to go. And with this virus that’s about, Tara doesn’t want to risk making anyone unwell. Being offered a bed from the hunky police offer is ok, isn’t it? She’s known him forever, best friend with his sister, and it won’t be for long….. 

Scott has always been the responsible one, his job at the police station suits him. And after the fiasco with “she who will not be named” he’s a confirmed bachelor. So giving a friend a bed for a few nights won’t be a problem. And as Tara was his sister’s best friend growing up, she’s practically family. But it’s been a few years since he’s seen her, and now she’s all grown up, but he’s on nights, how hard will it be to avoid her? 

Liked this story a lot. Loved the idea of post it notes, that did make me chuckle. And it was a great way to communicate (Scott worked nights and Tara worked days) 

Lucy the parrot made me chuckle and I loved Larry the police dog (every time Lucy told him to sit he did I had to laugh) 

The boat made for an unusual setting, the confined space that Tara and Scott were forced to share made for a different read. 

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Viral Dance – Sheridan Jeane 3(5) – Contemporary Romance
Free spirit Lily Lennon and CEO Josh Graves are opposites, or are they? When circumstances throw them together in a Mt. Rainier cabin during the pandemic, she’s determined to have him teach her to waltz. Can these two dance their way into one another’s hearts?

Review:
Lily’s a dog/house sitter, she works from the hosts home. But with the outbreak of the virus that’s sweeping the country, the owner of both dog and home is due back and lily has to move on, but she’s got nowhere to go, well there is the mountain retreat she can go to….. 

Josh has had three months away, not a holiday, but a retreat, after what can only be called a breakdown, Josh is back and ready to take back his company. But he’s a different man, less about the profit margin and more about his employees. 

A free spirit and an uptight CEO, (except he’s not really uptight anymore) 

Had to admit it wasn’t my favourite in this short story read. But there were a few laughs. Loved the dog Orwell. Liked how Josh thought about asking Lily about before he went to his retreat, but missed opportunities and all that. 

The dancing moments were a lot of fun to read. 

Both finding things about one another that appealed to them. 

The virus might have brought them together, but I think josh would have made his move eventually. 

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Choosing My Own Bananas – Becky Lower 1(5) Seasoned Romance
Claire has lived her life alone and free. But now, as an aging single, she’s facing the coronavirus by herself, and it’s the first time she’s been uncomfortable with her decisions. She ignores her sister’s advice and decides to take advantage of her local grocery’s early Senior Hour to do her own shopping.
Widower Bert can’t believe his luck. The mysterious woman from the health club pool is right behind him in line, waiting for the store to open. He and his friend call her Esther Williams, but now he might get to know her real name. And hopefully a whole lot more.

Review:
Bert a retired policeman with plenty of spare time on his hands. With his local spa closed due to the virus, Bert hasn’t got a lot to do but think, and lots of that time thinking has him thinking of a plan of action, he’s seen a lovely lady who he’d like to know better, but he doesn’t know her name, or where she lives, maybe fate will smile down on him and give him a break…..

Claire’s a control freak, she likes thinks done a certain way, and that’s why she stuck in a queue for her food shopping. She writes romance books, but even that isn’t holding her interest at the moment. She needs a little inspiration…..

This one had me smiling all the way through. A very gentle romance, dog walking (with a dog that’s not his) crazy golf (well golfing in a golf cart) and silly emails that brought a smile to both their faces. 

She’s a feisty control freak with a wicked set of one liners. He’s a man with a plan of action. 

Wooing in a time of lockdown presents it’s own set of challenging rules. No invading of personal space for one!! 

Being a widower has made Bert realise that life is too short, so he goes after the one thing that’s been on his mind for a while. 

Claire is a little more controlled, she likes a certain routine. 

So will Bert capture the fair maidens heart? Well he has her interest peaked, so who knows. 

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The Royal Muse – Judy McDonough 2(5) Contemporary Romance
New Orleans artist, Melody Landry, is done with relationships and cheating men. She’d much rather paint her frustration into money-making masterpieces.
Reece Thomas has had enough heartache for two lifetimes. He’d rather drown his sorrows with his trumpet and whisky than give anyone else a chance to rip his heart out.
Love was the last thing on their minds—until they found each other.
Can the healing powers of music and art bring two bitter souls together in the midst of a pandemic?

Review:
Reece doesn’t want anything more than a bottle to drown out his pain. Two years since the end of his marriage, and a mugging that left him with a constant and painful reminder of how much he lost. His only joy is his music, oh and the cute little artist he spied painting and singing from her balcony. 

Melody loves living in the French Quarter, her artists heart simply adores it. Inspiration runs well here, and even more so on a Thursday evening, her musical inspiration comes from her neighbour, his beautiful music gives her pieces a flow that she just can’t contain. 

But this evening he’s late, and Melody can’t help but wonder as to where he is….. 

I liked this one very much. 

Melody has been hurt before, so she’s not looking for romance. Reece can’t move on from his mugging and failed marriage. 

They’ve known each other a while now, but only from a distance, not a word has passed their lips to each other, but like calls to like, and a tentative friendship springs up.  

So how will a romance spring from this? And when an opportunity arises will they both take it? 

Beautifully written, that could have happily been a longer story. 

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Espresso. Paper. Love. – L.A. McGinnis 1(5) Contemporary Romance
A stir-crazy actress charms her way into a young doctor’s life from the neighboring apartment building. It’s one thing to exchange notes and coffee in a crisis, it’s another to deny their growing attraction.

Review:
Olivia is going to be an actress, well once she gets her big break, but until then it’s serving coffee to the masses. 

She has her regulars that she smiles and says hi to. Including her neighbour “Brandon S” he always smiles and a quick thank you. But after not seeing him at his home for a few days, she takes the initiative and decides to wave….. 

Brandon is suppose to be concentrating on knee surgeries and spine realignments, but with the virus taking a grip, it’s all hands to help. He’s so tired, but he can’t let anyone down. Most of his days he’s on automatic pilot. But today would be a turning point …..

As the time goes by, Olivia and Brandon do more and more together, of course noting the social distancing. Both want more as they’ve gotten to know each other. But when Brandon gets ill, how will Olivia cope? 

Loved the concept of paper plane post it notes. 

I loved Brandon and his thoughtfulness, he could see Olivia was struggling, and to thank her for a coffee and chat he suggests a walk. And it just takes off from there. 

This one deals with people who are now scared to leave their own homes. You feel you shouldn’t be out, not even to exercise. And I’m sure a lot of readers will relate too. 

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Tipsy – Jen Sako 1(5) New Adult Romance
Barbera Piedmont works in one of Manhattan’s top restaurants alongside a hot sommelier named Cavan Mills. One fateful night furloughs them both and there seems to be no end in sight. To Barbera’s surprise, Cavan contacts her for help keeping his career on track. Through a virtual connection, they share wines along with their fears and dreams. Barbera can’t help wondering what will happen to their digital relationship when life returns to normal. Will her services no longer be needed, or will these strange and dangerous times end in love?

Review:
Barbera or “Barbie” enjoys her job. Meeting new people, greeting regulars and catching up with friends she works with. 

But somethings wrong, guests aren’t coming in, some are cancelling their tables, some tables don’t even bother to phone to cancel. 

And when the restaurant is finally closed due to this virus, Barbera wonders what she’s going to do to keep herself occupied. 

Cavan loves his job, wine is his hobby and his passion. He wants to be the best, so an exam is in order. He wanted his girlfriend to help, but being in a different time zone makes it difficult. 

So he asks Barbera to help (after his girlfriend advised to ask a server for help) 

The wonderful World Wide Web came to the fore in this book. 

A sommelier (wine steward or a professional connoisseur) and server come together over wine. Barbera has had a crush on Cavan ever since she clapped eyes on him, so she jumps at the chance to spend time with him. 

As time goes by Barbera falls for Cavan, but it all comes crashing down when his girlfriend makes a surprise return home. Barbera is no longer needed, but the chats they had been having gave her concern, Isabella wanted Cavan to give up his passion and help her run a winery. 

She had to convince Cavan not to give up his dream. 

This one I had mixed feelings about. Loved the on-line wine tasting, i had to chuckle with the drunk chatting. 

I did feel Cavan was only interested in Barbera as help for him wine exam. But was totally surprised with his declaration to Barbera. 

 

Reviews by Julie B

Copy supplied for review

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A SECRET FOR A SECRET (All In #3) by Helena Hunting-a review

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A SECRET FOR A SECRET (All In #3) by Helena Hunting-a review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca /Amazon.uk / Amazon.au / B&N paper/

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 12, 2020.

My name is Ryan Kingston, and I’m a rule follower. I’ve never been in a fistfight. I always obey the speed limit. I don’t get drunk, and I definitely don’t pick up random women at bars.

Except the night I found out that my whole existence has been a lie.

I got drunk. And picked up a stranger.

Her name was Queenie, and she was everything I’m not: reckless, impulsive, and chaotic. We did shots and traded secrets. And ended up naked at my place.

She left me a thank-you note in the morning and her panties as a parting gift. But no way to contact her.

Six weeks later I’m sitting in the first official team meeting of the season, and there she is. I neglected to mention that I’m the goalie for Seattle’s NHL team.

And Queenie? Turns out she’s the general manager’s daughter.

•••••••••

REVIEW: A SECRET FOR A SECRET is the third instalment in Helena Hunting’s contemporary, adult ALL IN erotic, hockey romance series focusing on the members of the NHL’s Seattle expansion team. This is thirty year old, Seattle goalie Ryan Kingston, and twenty-four year old PA / artist Queenie Masterson’s story line. A SECRET FOR A SECRET can be read as stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Ryan and Queenie) A SECRET FOR A SECRET follows the forbidden relationship between thirty year old, Seattle goalie Ryan Kingston, and twenty-four year old PA / artist Queenie Masterson. Queenie Masterson is the only daughter of Seattle’s General Manager Jake Masterson, and as such our heroine is off-limits to the hockey players but several weeks earlier, Queenie spent a one-night stand with a sexy stranger struggling with some earth shattering news of his own, a stranger who happened to be Seattle’s first string goalie. Enter Ryan Kingston, the man with whom Queenie will fall in love. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Queenie and Ryan, and the potential fall-out as Queenie’s past demands reparations, and Ryan’s past comes looking for a second chance.

Ryan Kingston is the personification of perfection; a clean cut “boy-scout” who has fallen for the GM’s daughter but all is not well in Queenie’s life when her ex-boyfriend is the latest player to be traded to the Seattle team, a team that battles to accept the trade for a man whose reputation both on and off the ice precedes his introduction to his new team. A frenzy ensues when secrets and lies are released to the media, a frenzy that forces Queenie to run from the man that she loves.

The relationship between Queenie and Ryan begins as a one-night stand that will soon turn into something more, with the blessing of General Manager Jake Masterson but Queenie struggles with demons from her past, demons that are about to reveal a long-kept secret. As Ryan and Queenie’s relationship heats up, there are people in the back ground desperate to tear them apart. The $ex scenes are intimate, passionate and intense, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters including Queenie’s father Jake Masterson; her ex-boyfriend Corey Slater and his fiance Sissy, as well as Ryan’s brother Gerald, mother, and mom-ster Hannah. We are reintroduced to Bishop and Stevie (A Favor for a Favor #2), Stevie’s brother Rook ‘RJ’ Bowman and his wife Lainey ( A Lie for a Lie #1) and coach Alex Waters and his wife Violet, and their daughter Lavender.

A SECRET FOR A SECRET is a story of family, friendships, secrets and lies; a story of revelations and heart break; of acceptance and love. The premise is captivating; the romance is steamy and hot; the characters are dynamic and seductive.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
A Lie for a Lie
A Favor for a Favor

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Haven’t started the series? Books 1 and 2 are only $1.99 OR £0.99 each (or less) for a limited time

A LIE FOR A LIE: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

A FAVOR FOR A FAVOR: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter

FOLLOW: NYT and USA Today Bestselling author of The PUCKED Series, Helena Hunting lives outside of Toronto with her amazing family and her two awesome cats, who think the best place to sleep is her keyboard. Helena writes everything from contemporary romance to romance comedy, sports romance and angsty new adult romance.
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Blowback (The Monsters Within 2) by Monica James-Review tour

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Blowback (The Monsters Within Duology 2) by Monica James-Review tour

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 7 ,2020

This was supposed to be simple. Vengeance was mine. But I should know by now that nothing in life is easy.

My endgame has changed all because I met someone who wishes I was dead. Yet her hatred is the only thing saving her from The Big Bad. My lies protect her, so the harder she hates, the safer she is.

The thing about love and hate—it skates a very thin line. I need to stay away. It’s better for everyone if I do. But fighting this is like fighting nature.

Our paths crossed for a reason, and my Tiger isn’t fooled. Once the smoke clears, she will see every player, including me. I don’t deserve a second chance. But I want one…because I want her. The question is, what happens when the truth is finally revealed?

With the end in sight, I can promise you there will be nothing but violence and mayhem.

Oh yes, blood will be shed.

••••••••

REVIEW:BLOWBACK is the second and final instalment in Monica James contemporary, adult THE MONSTERS WITHIN dark, erotic, romance duet focusing on former inmate, and bouncer thirty year old Cody ‘Bullseye’ Bishop, and twenty-eight year old, exotic dancer/ dance instructor Lily ‘Tigerlily’ Hope. BLOWBACK should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up immediately after the events and cliff-hanger of book one BULLSEYE.

WARNING: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be some triggers for more sensitive readers.

SOME BACKGROUND: Approximately fifteen years earlier, at the age of fifteen, Cody Bishop witnessed the murder of his older brother Damian by four wanna-be gang bangers, and our anti-hero pledged to kill everyone involved. Following the death of one of the men responsible, Cody would serve twelve years in jail where he would take the name Bullseye, excelling in the game of underworld fighting. Upon his release from prison, Bullseye vowed to kill the surviving three men but finds himself falling for an exotic dancer with connections to his past.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Bullseye and Tigerlily) BLOWBACK follows Cody ‘Bullseye’ Bishop as he continues to exact revenge on the people responsible for Damian’s murder. As Bullseye’s plan comes to fruition Lily will soon discover to what depths Bullseye is willing to go in an effort avenge the brother he lost. Playing both sides in a war between competing cartels, Bullseye unapologetically makes himself the target, willing to sacrifice his own life if it means saving the woman with whom he will fall in love but it is Lily’s past that will pose the greatest threat using our heroine in the process.

The numerous colorful secondary and supporting characters include the return of Bullseye’s parole officer Franca Brown; Lotus, the owner of The Pink Oyster; and several local gang-bangers and the men who rule the streets of Detroit- Jaws, Hero, Scrooge, Stevie and Kong, as well as Lily’s son Jordy. We are introduced to Stevie’s wife Bianca, Jose, and Bulleye’s young helper Paul Garrison.

BLOWBACK is a gritty story of betrayal, vengeance, murder and death; heart break and revelation; retribution and love. The premise is dark and raw; the romance is provocative, complicated and passionate; the characters are broken, dangerous, determined and deadly. BLOWBACK is a thought provoking look at vengeance, and to the depth of which one man is willing to go.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one BULLSEYE

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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

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

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

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

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Finding Mr. Right Next Door by Sarah Ballance – a Review

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Finding Mr. Right Next Door by Sarah Ballance – a Review

 

Amazon / B&N / Kobo / Google Play / Apple

 

Description:
For Lexi Dean, burning down her kitchen was disaster enough. Agreeing to move in next door with her totally off-limits best friend, Matt Freeman, until her house is livable again?

Utter madness.

They’ve always been close, but this is ridiculous. If she’s not bumping into him at the refrigerator, he’s at the front door giving her date the third degree. And slipping between his borrowed sheets? That’s about as distracting as listening to his shower run, because suddenly all she can think about is rivulets of water cascading down is spectacular body—the one he seems to be going out of his way to make sure she notices.

Not that it matters. He can flaunt his firefighter abs around her all he wants. They already share everything—their jobs, their friends, their backyard, even their dog—and that means only one thing: Lexi is not going to risk losing any of it by dipping a single toe in the temptation that is Matt Freeman.

Lexi may not know how to handle a fire extinguisher, but this is one fire that just might burn them both if they’re not careful…

 

Review:

Finding Mr. Right Next Door by Sarah Ballance is book two in The Firefighters of Station 1 series.

Lexi Dean’s kitchen is on fire, when in walks next door neighbor, best friend, and fire fighter Matt Freeman. When the fire shifts he instructs her to call 911. Left with embarrassment because she works at the fire station in the supply room she begins to realize she may never hear the end of this!
When it becomes clear that there is no way she can stay in her house in the aftermath of the fire, Matt offers for her to stay with him during repairs. When contemplating the two hour drive she would have commuting from her parents house – she decides to stay with Matt.

Lexi and Matt have been best friends for as long as they can remember. But when she moves in with Matt all that closeness begins to change things.
Even though they spent loads of time together before the fire, being that close to one another starts to prove difficult, Neither of them want to ruin the friendship they have had for so long.

Their friendship turned romance contains just the right amount of sexy, sarcastic banter that proves friends to lovers romance can happen.
Although this one takes the long way around to the HEA. Its a struggle for both to admit their feelings and give in to the temptation before them.
There is a lot of teasing, sarcasm and witty banter. But I enjoy books like that!

I loved the secondary characters – my favorite of which was Elsie – Matt’s grandmother. She made the entire book for me!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book – I must say it was my first “firefighter” book and it can completely be read as a stand alone. Quick short wonderful read that I highly recommend! Will be going back and reading book one in the series because I am sure it will be quick to become on of my favorites.

Reviewed by Erin

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

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LOVE UNDER QUARANTINE by Kylie Scott & Audrey Carlan-Review Tour

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LOVE UNDER QUARANTINE by Kylie Scott & Audrey Carlan-Review & Excerpt Tour

 

 

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon Worldwide /

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 5, 2020

While the world is ravaged by a global pandemic, hotshot NFL running back Evan Sparks is locked in his own personal hell. With a career-ending scandal on his back, Evan hides out in his best friend’s empty San Francisco home, the full city shutdown locking him in a lonely twenty-story apartment in the sky.

Romance writer Sadie Walsh is having the worst case of writer’s block ever…until the incredible, muscular stranger staying next door gets her muse going strong. The pair of loners, never expecting to find a friend in all the madness, meet each day out on their balconies like a modern-day Romeo and Juliet.

Each new day brings unique challenges for the pair as they navigate the unknown and find solace together. They quickly figure out that as long as they have one another, they can handle anything.

Even falling in love under quarantine.

••••••••

REVIEW: LOVE UNDER QUARANTINE is a contemporary, adult, stand alone, erotic, romance story line co-authored by Kylie Scott and Audrey Carlan. This is NFL running back Evan Sparks, and indie romance writer Sadie Walsh’s story line.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Evan and Sadie) LOVE UNDER QUARANTINE follows the growing relationship between twenty-nine year old NFL running back Evan Sparks, and twenty-eight year old, indie romance writer Sadie Walsh. It’s March 2020, and the entire world is under quarantine due to the COVID19 outbreak and pandemic. Running back Evan Sparks is in hiding in San Francisco, at his best friend Jake’s apartment, hiding due to the career-ending scandal that has placed our hero in the direct line of fire. Someone has set up Evan Sparks, and his career is barely hanging by a thread. Meeting Jake’s neighbor Sadie Walsh sets up a two week self-isolation affair wherein our couple will meet virtually by messenger and text, while keeping six feet apart while on their morning walks. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Sadie and Evan, and the potential fall-out as Evan discovers he is about to become more of a leading man than he could ever had imagined.

The relationship between Sadie and Evan is a combination of virtual $ex, texting, messenger and nightly visits on their respective balconies. Complete opposites in lifestyle, Evan will quickly learn the woman with whom he is falling in love is nothing more than a junk-food junkie; and Sadie will quickly discover that to attain a body like Evans, healthy eating is always on the menu. As their fourteen day self-isolation period draws to a close, Evan will discover the identity of the person hoping to destroy his life but an identity that is a betrayal on so many levels. With Sadie by his side, Evan struggles with what happened and why, but our hero will lose someone that meant something more. The back and forth banter is frenzied and fun-Sadie introduces Evan to Lord of the Rings and the Twilight Series. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and sex.

The secondary and supporting characters are limited but include (and mostly via phone calls and text): Evans best friend Jake; teammate Levi; coach Bates: Sadies editor Zahra, as well as her parents back home.

LOVE UNDER QUARANTINE is a story of family, friendship, and betrayal. A story of love, lust, and communication. The premise is engaging and entertaining; the romance is sexy and hot; the characters are energetic and charismatic.

NOTE: I would like to add that I think the proceeds from the sale of this book, or any book currently using the pandemic as part of the premise, should be donated to food banks to help those who cannot afford food to eat, let alone buy a book.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

 

Okay, reposition feet hip-distance apart and centered on the mat. Inhale and let it all go on the exhale. I look over the balcony across the barren city and try to find perspective. What did the teacher say? Set your intention? My intention is to maintain a modicum of good health and to not go insane during self-isolation. Fingers crossed on both fronts. Getting some work done wouldn’t be a bad idea either.
“They locked down the fucking city, man!” The voice blocks me from finding my zen spot. Some big blond dude is pacing back and forth in the neighboring apartment. Guess we’ve all got to get our exercise one way or another. A nice quiet doctor owns the place, but he’s overseas right now. No idea who this guy is. The new cat sitter, maybe? If so, I hope Gloria housetrains him quickly because all of this shouty behavior is not okay. Not if I have to share a wall with him for the next few weeks.
My new neighbor’s voice lowers to a more tolerable level and I take a deep, calming breath before moving into my next pose. Much better. Despite having questionable balance and being new to this whole yoga thing, I’m not doing too badly. It’s weird how quiet the city is with everything on lockdown. Peaceful, almost.
“Two weeks! I’ll be stuck here for two weeks!” he rants once more.
Ugh.
Due to the architect’s penchant for floor to ceiling windows—perfect for letting in the light—I have quite the view of my new neighbor’s performance. Much angst. Such woe. Like we’re not all going to go stir crazy during lock in. Even if it has only just started. I for one can’t wait to see how many divorces and break-ups this causes. Call it morbid curiosity. Though, being a romance writer, my mind would be better served dwelling on the possibilities for true love in this situation.
A random casual hook-up turning into so much more due to weeks of forced interaction? Roommates bonding over newly revealed shared interests? Nuh. Roommates entering into a sex pact to stave off boredom! Now that could work. Broken beds and broken hearts. That’s how to get things done. With the requisite happy ever after at the end, of course.
“Excuse me!” he shouts, shoving a frustrated hand through his head of thick, wavy, dark blond hair. New phone call, I think. After all, you can’t yell at the same person all day long. How tedious would that be?
Call me distractible, but watching him is actually a hell of a lot more interesting than perfecting my Downward Dog or doing yet another inventory of my pantry. Damn Oreos. I could have sworn I had another package. Day one and I’m already out of my favorite snack. Just bring on the apocalypse already. Without Oreos my life is already functionally over.
“Are you kidding me!” The man sure has a set of lungs on him. Unfortunately, at this point, he about-faces and strides back into the apartment. Still yelling, of course, though I can’t quite make out what he’s saying.
On the plus side, in those blue jeans, his ass is a thing of wonder. Honest to God. In less pandemic-y times, I’d charge my friends a bottle of wine to come over and witness the beauty of that thing. So tight. So nice. I lick my lips. Impressively broad shoulders beneath his T-shirt too. When he paces back to the front of the apartment, I’m presented with a strong jawline, high forehead, and a nose that could be slightly crooked. At least, it will be in the book. Readers dig that shit. The hint of a complicated past with a dash of violence thrown in for good measure. Ideally, he’d have broken it defending a small child or rescuing puppies. A combination of the two, perhaps?
Yes, it’s a definite. Apart from the anger management issues, this guy is officially hot stuff. Not that I’m after an actual love interest. Just inspiration for the hero of my next book.
Which is when it hits me…big buff dude reveals surprisingly sensitive side to sexy single introverted neighbor during quarantine. Hmm. It has possibilities. I stop procrastinating and move onto the next pose, arms out in a T, legs wide, and a slow bend at the waist. I exhale, pondering the plot idea along with the thickness of his thighs. The way the denim lovingly embraces every inch of his musculature. It’s like it’s on a loop playing over and over in my head. Okay, maybe I’m a little sex starved. He can feature in my masturbatory fantasies as well. After all, he’s that kind of can-do, helpful guy. Or at least, he is in my mind. And that’s where the man will stay. At a safe and appropriate distance. For both the virus and my heart.

 

 

About Kylie Scott

Kylie is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author. She was voted Australian Romance Writer of the year, 2013, 2014 & 2018, by the Australian Romance Writer’s Association and her books have been translated into eleven different languages. She is a long time fan of romance, rock music, and B-grade horror films. Based in Queensland, Australia with her two children and husband, she reads, writes and never dithers around on the internet.

 

Connect with Kylie

Amazon: https://amzn.to/2XujcZh

Bookbub: http://bit.ly/2GngiQq

Facebook: http://bit.ly/2OiXx3I
Twitter: http://bit.ly/391pjJM
Instagram: http://bit.ly/2EUrx11

Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2Imusk3

Pinterest: http://bit.ly/2S7cc32

Book+Main Bites: http://bit.ly/2ETz5RQ

Stay up to date with Kylie by joining her mailing list:
http://bit.ly/2TOOivT

Website: https://kyliescott.com/

  

About Audrey Carlan

Audrey Carlan is a #1 New York Times and International bestselling author. Her titles have appeared on USA Today and the Wall Street Journal. Audrey writes wicked hot love stories that have been translated in over thirty different languages across the globe. She is best known for the world-wide bestselling series Calendar Girl and Trinity.

She lives in the California Valley where she enjoys her two children and the love of her life. When she’s not writing, you can find her teaching yoga, sipping wine with her “soul sisters,” or with her nose stuck in a steamy romance novel.

 

Connect with Audrey
Facebook: https://bit.ly/2V0qWSS
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2V0zr0j
Bookbub: https://bit.ly/2x2rwaK
Instagram: https://bit.ly/39DdB8g
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/2R9cIxM
Stay up to date with Audrey by joining her mailing list: https://bit.ly/2V050Y1
Website: https://audreycarlan.com/

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Caught Inside by Kristie Leigh-Review & Giveaway Tour

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Caught Inside by Kristie Leigh-Review & Giveaway Tour

 

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

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

Add Caught Inside to your TBR: https://bit.ly/CaughtInside_GR

 

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 6, 2020

One California girl.
One Canadian boy.
One week.
No strings.

Two years later and he’s back.
Nothing much had changed.
Except this time, he was here to stay.

••••••••

REVIEW:Caught Inside by Kristie Leigh is the quintessential summer, beach romance with a twist of sass.

Easton is a 19 year old pink haired surfer girl who is living her best life in Pahookie, California. She works at the Boathouse – a surf shop and Barangas – a local bar. All of this gives her plenty of time to enjoy surfing, partying, friends and the beach life. She has never had a boyfriend, a date or any of that other nonsense that has to do with men. She lives life by her rules. She has no time for anything that involves emotions. The trauma of her father dying and her mother’s methods of dealing with the loss with multiple partners has left her jaded and afraid of opening herself up to anyone. She has no problem with one night stands, but there is no sleepovers, no emotions, no connections or commitments.

That is exactly the way she likes it and the way she lives her life.

That is until the luck of a dart throw lands Tanner Fields right into her universe. Tanner is a college student from Canada, in town with his friends, for a week to enjoy the beach and party all the stress of school away. But a charity event at Barangas brings him face to face with Easton. Tanner had never met a woman so straight forward in what she wanted. Not only was she drop dead beautiful and straightforward, she made Tanner feel things he has never felt before. From the moment he met her – he just knew. Easton’s plans for Tanner start out as looking for a one night stand, but just spending time with him changes her mind. She soon realizes that Tanner is not like her usual tourist of choice.

Easton has grown up in the same beach town she still resides. She has certain thoughts and feelings about relationships and how they are just not for her. She resides with her two best friends Rhian and Sade. They live the typical beach life. Just young women out to have a good time while they can. Easton’s best friends have never seen her just hang out with a guy before. Easton has her set of rules that she never waivers from. But with Tanner, her friends are blown away by how Tanner and Easton have taken to each other. But what happens when Tanner has to leave?

Tanner is on vacation and he is determined to spend as much time as he can with Easton while he can. He doesn’t care what they do as long as he is with her. He learns that Easton doesn’t do relationships but he convinces her that they can have an amazing time and go back to their lives, and just enjoy the moment. But as the week goes on – they both realize how hard it is going to be to leave each other. But they know they have to.

When Easton takes Tanner to the airport for his return home, once he boards the plane she leaves a voicemail telling him that for her own peace of mind and sanity – she can never hear from him again and she must go forward with her life. Devastating Tanner in the process. But two years later Tanner has a job offer in the same town where Easton lives and things are about to get quite interesting!

I found this book was a wonderful quick beachy read. Made me miss being at the beach and wanting to go there! This book is all about young love, romance, the sometimes issue of sabotaging your own happiness despite the fact that you want everything that lays before you. Wonderful young, vibrant read that I recommend to anyone looking for some fun in the sun.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Erin

 

FOLLOW: Goodreads/Website/Twitter/Facebook/ Instagram / Amazon Page

I’m a feisty redheaded Canadian/American who fell in love with romance novels when my friend Phil bought me a Kindle and it hasn’t left my side since.

My fave books to read are anything taboo and super sick and twisted, I’m not sure I will ever write anything dark but I would love to give it a shot one day.

I live in South Florida with my high school sweetheart and 3 kids.

I grew up in Burlington, ON, Canada but made the move to South Florida in 2013 and definitely don’t miss the snow.

I’m not sure where this writing journey will take me but either way I know it will be a fun new adventure and I’m super excited about it.

NOTE : The Reading Cafe is NOT responsible for the giveaway. If you have any questions, please contact the author:

To celebrate the release of Caught Inside, Kristie Leigh is giving away a signed paperback, swag packs, or an Amazon gift card!

Enter here:  https://bit.ly/CIReleaseGiveaway2

 

 

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Grant’s Heat by Angel Payne & Victoria Blue-Review Tour

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Grant’s Heat (Shark’s Edge #4) by Angel Payne & Victoria Blue-Review Tour

 

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 4, 2020

Is ignoring the heat a recipe for disaster?

Grant Twombley has it all—a successful career, a contacts list full of gorgeous and willing bedmates, and the ear of Los Angeles’s most prominent captain of industry.
But being Sebastian Shark’s right-hand man isn’t without its challenges. Messy ones. Unknown forces still work to take down Shark Enterprises, and Grant’s full focus is needed to protect their empire. But he’s sitting on a scandalous secret. A truth he can’t even share with his best friend. Until disaster strikes.

Rio Gibson carries dark secrets of her own. She hides them well…until her world is shattered. She holds Shark responsible, but the only person she shares her suspicions with is also the man closest to him—the giving, gorgeous man who makes her feel so many new and surprising things. Dangerous things.

But Rio’s used to handling the heat in the kitchen, and she can handle this challenge too. Getting out simply isn’t an option—no matter how bad it’ll burn in the end.

•••••••

REVIEW:GRANT’S HEAT is the fourth instalment in the contemporary, adult SHARK’S EDGE erotic, romance series, and the first instalment focusing on billionaire Grant Twombley, and caterer Rio ‘Blaze’ Gibson. GRANT’S HEAT 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. Grant and Rio were first introduced in books 1-3 of Shark’s Edge.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Grant and Rio) GRANT’S HEAT follows the building but forbidden relationships between billionaire Grant Twombley, and caterer Rio Gibson. Grant Twombley’s attraction and need for Rio Gibson burns hotter with each encounter but Rio’s life is about to spiral out of control, as she falls deeper into an abyss of fire and flame. Rio Gibson struggles with issues of mental illness, and a personal loss sends Rio over the edge forcing our hero to cover for the woman with whom he is falling in love but Rio’s behaviour is placing many lives at risk, and Grant’s need to protect Rio further complicates his partnership with Sebastian Shark, and Shark Enterprises. What ensues is the building but struggling relationship between Grant and Rio, and the potential fall-out as Rio begins to alienate her friends, threatening a life long relationship in the process when her conduct and demeanor continues to exhibit a downward spiral.

The relationship between Grant and Rio begins as one of friendship in books one to three but Grant wants something more from a woman who is currently involved with someone else. Unable to keep his distance Grant becomes Rio’s sounding board and system of support when her life begins to spiral out of control. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense but I take issue with the use of a certain four-letter word.

The colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters include Grant’s business partners Sebastian Shark and his fiancé Abbigail Gibson, as well as Elijah Banks; and Rio’s co-worker Hannah Farsey, a young woman filling in while Abbi is on maternity leave.

GRANT’S HEAT is a story of loss, grief, struggle and control; a story of betrayal and vengeance; of family, friendship, mental illness and the need for understanding, and emotional help. The premise is heart breaking, emotional and edgy; the characters are flawed and tragic; the romance is sensual and provocative. GRANT’S HEAT ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

Reading order and previous reviews
Shark’s Edge
Shark’s Pride
Shark’s Rise

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

USA Today bestselling romance author Angel Payne has written for four publishing houses, and is also independently published. She loves to focus on high heat romance starring memorable alpha men and the women who love them.

She has numerous book series to her credit, including the Suited for Sin series, the Cimarron Saga, the Temptation Court series, the Secrets of Stone series (with Victoria Blue), the Lords of Sin historicals, and the rebranded Honor Bound series, as well as several stand-alone titles.

Currently, she is serving as the Vice President of Romance Writers of America’s Passionate Ink Chapter.

She lives in Southern California with her soul-mate husband and beautiful daughter.

https://www.facebook.com/authorangelpayne/

https://twitter.com/AngelPayneWrtr

https://www.instagram.com/angelpaynewriter/

http://angelpayne.com/

•••••••••

Victoria Blue lives in her own portion of the galaxy known as Southern California. There she finds the love and life sustaining power of one amazing sun, two unique and awe inspiring planets and three indifferent, yet comforting moons.

 

Life is fantastic and challenging and everyday brings new adventures to be discovered. She looks forward to seeing what’s next!

https://www.facebook.com/victoriablueauthor/

https://www.instagram.com/missvictoriablu/

https://twitter.com/MissVictoriaBlu

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COUNTING ON COLE (Wilde Ways #8) by Cynthia Eden-a review

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COUNTING ON COLE (Wilde Ways #8) by Cynthia Eden-a review

 

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 28, 2020

She was the one who got away. The one who ripped out his heart and took it with her when she left.

Cole Vincent never expected to see Evangeline Lake again. Back in the dark and bloody day, he’d been hired by her brother to save her in a mission that went straight to hell. Evangeline had been kidnapped and held for ransom, but he’d been sent in with a covert team to get her out. Thrown together in the dark, a stunning attraction burned through them. But she wasn’t meant to be with an ex-soldier who had a past that was littered with secrets and death. She went back to her fancy world. He went back to hunting. Tried to forget her. Case closed.

There are some people you can never forget.

Evangeline “Evie” Lake fell hard and fast for her tall, dark, and dangerous rescuer. Then he flew her back to her home, kissed her goodbye on the doorstep, and walked his sexy self away with looking back. He broke her heart into a million little pieces, and she swore off the “bad boys”—they were just trouble she didn’t want. Case closed.

She needs help. The kind that only someone like Cole can give to her.

The past is coming back to attack. Evie’s kidnapper was never caught, and when she’s nearly abducted in New York, her brother calls in the one man that he knows he can count on…the one man who has proven he can protect Evie from the worst threats out there. The one man that Evie absolutely, positively does not want to see again…

The only man she’s ever loved.

Cole takes the case. Becomes her bodyguard. Gets far too close to her and stirs memories that should have been dead and buried in a six foot hole. The white-hot attraction burns ever brighter between them, but Evie will not fall for him again. Will not. Except…

She is. He is. They are…falling.

Cole wants Evie more than anything, and this time, he won’t walk away. This time, there is nothing that can keep them apart. He’ll fight like hell for the woman he’s always loved. He finally has a second chance with Evie. He won’t screw this up. And he will not let her go again…he will prove to Evie that she can always count on him to keep her safe.

She is the only one he wants. The one who owns his heart. Anyone who wants to hurt her? They have to go through him. Case closed.

•••••••••

REVIEW: COUNTING ON COLE is the eight instalment in Cynthia Eden’s contemporary,adult WILDE WAYS erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on the men and women who work for Wilde Ways Security. This is former Delta Force soldier Cole Vincent, and choreographer Evangeline ‘Evie’ Lake’s story line. COUNTING ON COLE 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 (Cole and Evie) COUNTING ON COLE follows the rekindling relationship between is former Delta Force soldier Cole Vincent, and choreographer Evangeline ‘Evie’ Lake. Approximately two and half years earlier, Cole Vincent was hired by Evie’s step-brother Harrison when the woman in question was abducted and held for ransom. Evie Lake fell in love with Cole Vincent but upon her return home, Cole disappeared without a trace. Fast forward to present day wherein Cole is once again hired by Evie’s brother when threats against our heroine’s life become dangerous and real. With the reappearance of Cole Vincent, Evie struggles with long buried emotions when Cole promises he will never run again. What ensues is the rebuilding romance and relationship between Evie and Cole, as Cole and the team at Wilde Ways battle an unknown enemy but a enemy that is coming from several different angles.

Evie Lake has never stopped loving Cole Vincent but struggles in the face of betrayal and loss. Having disappeared immediately upon their return, Cole remained in the background while Evie went on with her life. Cole Vincent never forgot about the woman that stole his heart but our hero was forced to walk way by threats of another nature.

The relationship between Evie and Cole is one of second chances; a spirited, intense and rekindling romance between two people pulled apart by distance and time. The $ex scenes are passionate erotic and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Evie’s best friend,Leo and her brother Harrison; Broadway director Robert Demakis; producer Stephen Lowe, and artist/Harrison’s ex girlfriend Gia Eastman. We are re-introduced to several agents at Wilde Ways Security : James ‘Ghost’ Smith, Chase Durant, and Eric Wilde.

COUNTING ON COLE is a fast paced, energetic and engaging story line. The characters are dynamic and spirited; the romance is tender, provocative and captivating. COUNTING ON COLE is another welcome addition to Cynthia Eden’s WILDE WAYS romantic, suspense series.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Protecting Piper
Guarding Gwen
Before Ben
The Heart You Break
Fighting for Her
One Hot Holiday
Ghost of a Chance

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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