Monthly Archives: November 2020

Shades of Darkness by Alexandra Ivy-a review

Posted on by
10

Shades of Darkness (Guardians of Eternity #16) by Alexandra Ivy-a review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 10 2020.

Chaaya endured centuries as a sacrifice, protecting her people from an evil that could destabilize all magic. At long last, her servitude is over—and she’s raring to have some fun. The baddest ghost-girl in Las Vegas has a talent for causing mayhem. And for getting under the skin of her solid, silent bodyguard, the vampire Basq . . .

Basq doesn’t let anyone close. He’s learned the costs of companionship. But reckless, disrespectful Chaaya, with her fiery temper and her fierce loneliness, isn’t like anyone else. Staying near her isn’t just a duty, it’s a hunger. When a prisoner of Chaaya’s last battle escapes, possibly seeking Chaaya’s nemesis, Basq isn’t letting her chase through a hellscape mirror London alone. But when the choice is between abandoning everything that’s kept them alive, or each other, survival will take not only desire—but trust .

••••••••

REVIEW:SHADES OF DARKNESS is the sixteen full-length instalment in Alexandra Ivy’s contemporary, adult GUARDIANS OF ETERNITY paranormal/fantasy romance series. This is vampire Basq, and Chaaya’s story line. SHADES OF DARKNESS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalments is revealed where necessary.

Told from a number of third person perspective following several intersecting paths SHADES OF DARKNESS focuses on Chaaya, a not quite human female, whose recent release from hundreds of years in a supernatural prison, sets out to wreak havoc on the world in which she now lives. Having been sacrificed by her mother years before, in an effort to save the world and mankind, Chaaya finds herself a ‘virtual prisoner’ at vampire Chiron’s Dreamscape Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada with her assigned security vampire Basq. The darkness that all but consumed our story line heroine has returned in the form of one-time were shifter Brigette, whose ‘escape’ from the underwater mer prison has started an investigation into betrayal and vengeance. Chaaya is determined to destroy Brigette before she consumes the world, but in doing so, finds herself with an unlikely partner in the man with whom Chaaya will fall in love. What ensues is the building relationship between Chaaya and Basq, and the potential fall-out as the past comes back to claim our story line heroine.

The relationship between Chaaya and Basq begins as an assignment as Basq is tasked with ‘keeping an eye’ on our story line heroine. Chaaya is a bit of a trouble maker at the casinos and bars in Las Vegas, Nevada but there is a price on Chaaya’s head, and Basq must ensure that the woman that calls to his heart, is safe and remains alive. The lone $ex scene is intimate but barely touches the surface of a fated romance.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters many of whom have been introduced in previous instalments: vampire and owner of Dreamscapes Resort Chiron; gargoyle Levet; mer queen Inga; Prince of Imps Troy; were Brigitte; numerous mer people including Jord, Riza, Rimm; and Greta.

SHADES OF DARKNESS is a detailed story line that follows several intersecting and connected paths. As Levet sticks close to Brigette in an effort to ensure the darkness doesn’t escape, Chaaya continues her search for Brigette, determined to destroy the darkness within. The premise is engaging and captivating; characters are colorful and energetic; the romance struggles with a lack of emotion or any palpable sexual energy-there was no discernible chemistry or heat.

Previous Reviews (this a list of books we have reviewed at The Reading Cafe. We have read most if not all of the books in the series but have not posted a review !)

When Darkness Comes
Embrace the Darkness
Darkness Everlasting
Darkness Revealed
Darkness Unleashed
Beyond the Darkness
Devoured by Darkness
Taken by Darkness
Darkness Eternal
Bound by Darkness
Where Darkness Lives
Fear The Darkness
Darkness Avenged
Darkness Eternal
Hunt the Darkness
A Very Levet Christmas
When Darkness Ends
Darkness Returns
Beware the Darkness
Conquer the Darkness
Sacrifice of Darkness/a>

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Share

Scars (The Killers #5) by Brynne Asher-Review Tour

Posted on by
11

Scars (The Killers #5) by Brynne Asher-Review 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

Scars Goodreads Link: https://bit.ly/34iI2QA

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 10, 2020

Being a spy isn’t for the faint at heart—especially for the brute American and the beautiful, cunning Brit…

Who am I? I’m Cole Carson and I’m the best at what I do.
Four years ago, the CIA forced me to babysit the young MI6 princess, Isabella Donnelly. Beneath my paygrade and skillset, but I like to think I taught her everything she knows—because I’m just that good.
Turns out, there’s a first time for everything because I was wrong about her. She pissed me off and challenged me in ways no one had before. I not only ate my words, I choked those suckers down with a bottle of whiskey when someone ripped her away from me.
Now she’s back and no one can know she’s here. And by no one, I mean all of the western world.
I’m determined to clear her name and make her mine.
It’s a tall order so it’s a damn good thing I’m me.

A dare…

Okay, fine. It wasn’t a dare. More like a wager, laid at my feet by none other than Cole Carson. It’s all semantics at this point—I’m stuck between the threat of prison and my arsehole American, whom I just can’t shake.
Trust me, I’ve tried.
I have no one to blame but my stupid, stupid heart.
I’m no princess and certainly don’t need a prince charming. I can kick arse all on my own—it’s what I came here to do. Taking a bullet was not on my agenda … neither was waking up in the hospital with Cole glaring at me.
But I’m here and I’m nothing if not determined.
But that dare…
I can’t focus on that until I clear my name. If Cole wants to tag along, so be it.
I am a Donnelly. We don’t give up nor do we bow down … to anyone.

••••••••

REVIEW:*In the best fake English accent possible*

Bloody Brilliant!

From the very first book in the Killers series, I have been in LOVE with Brynne Ashers world. Scars is the fifth book in that series, it’s filled with action, romance and funny relatable characters that readers always remember when the story is finished. Scars is recommended to be read in series order for the best possible read.

Scars continues the story right where Veils leaves off. We revisit old friends from previous books and FINALLY get Bella and Cole’s story. Two spies, both with moral compasses, one retired and one not ready to give up what she has fought so hard for. When Bella’s life is now on the line, and a bullet puts things into perspective; Cole maps out a plan to get back the one woman who has never left his heart, or mind. Bella on the other hand is a strong, independent woman who literally kicks booty and takes names, she’s a baddy of a character and most definitely fits in with Crew’s “Crew”. An (ex) MI6 agent with both her career and life on the line, Bella reluctantly takes Cole’s wager for help. Cole is a weakness she can’t allow herself to have at the moment, nor does she wish to hurt him again.

Bella has a mission, and she’s willing to go as far as she needs to clear her name and finish what she started. From the very beginning, I was smitten with Cole, but his loyalty and love for his friends and family make him the character he is. Now, don’t misunderstand; Cole is still an over the top alpha male, possessive and cocky, but Bella is no damsel in distress. Their interactions together, the way they get under each other’s skin, it’s so relatable to an old married couple. However, when the truth finally comes out, and Bella’s hard exterior has been cracked, Cole is the one to help her pick up the pieces and help her move on.

Scars is a story of family, both the ones you are born with and the ones you choose to make, Ms. Asher has an uncanny ability to make you FEEL what her characters are going through, their loss is your loss, their happiness is your happiness. Her stories are some of the best I have read in my years as a book nerd, and I can’t wait to see what other adventures she takes us on. Five out of five stars!

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sarah

Social Media: Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Website/ Amazon Author page

Brynne Asher lives in the Midwest with her husband, three children and her perfect dog. When she isn’t creating pretend people and relationships in her head, she’s running her kids around and doing laundry. She enjoys decorating and shopping, and is always seeking the best deal. A perfect day in “Brynne World” ends in front of an outdoor fire with family, friends, s’mores, and a delicious cocktail.

Share

Treoir Dragon Chronicles of the Belador World #3 – a Review

Posted on by
22

Treoir Dragon Chronicles of the Belador World #3 – a Review

 

Amazon / B&N / Kobo / Google Play /

Description:
Daegan and his people race across different continents to battle deadly Imortiks while a Tribunal issues kill-on-sight orders for Beladors. In Ireland, Daegan comes face-to-face with a dragon from his past who has waited a long time to kill him. Casidhe and Daegan take a leap of faith for a chance to find a hidden grimoire and everything changes between them.

*This is a 9-book spinoff series for first-time readers as well as current Belador fans.  All 9 books will release within a year and be available in e-book, print, and audiobooks.

 

Review:

Treoir Dragon Chronicles of the Belador World: Book 3 is the 3rd book in The Chronicles of the Belador World (9 book arc). Refresher: Daegan and his team are attacked by Immortiks, who were supposed dead many years ago. Daegan is desperate to save his Beladors, with many being held prisoners, with the threat of death if he can’t find the missing ‘grimoire, volumes.  The information on the Immortiks and the grimoire is difficult to find, as it dates back thousands of years ago

 When we left off in book 2, Daegon finally finds Casidhe, who is an ancient Luigsech researcher, who is able to read the grimoire volumes with others also want. They will begin to work together, though early on they do not get along or trust each other.  I still see possibilities of a slow burn romance in the far future. When Casidhe manages to find more information, they approach an oracle, who will send them on a mission to find the grimoire and other things.  Do they trust the oracle?

While Daegon is off in another world, Quinn is desperate to protect Reese from the demons she attracts, and also has to answer to the Tribunal, who do not want to listen to him.  Tristan is now free, but recovering from serious injuries on Treior, and all hell is breaking loose all over.  Close to the end we get another new person, which could change the game for all. 

This is a difficult review to give without giving spoilers, as these are short stories and saying too much would be too revealing; not mention each book ends in a cliffhanger. You truly do need to read these books in cohesion.  What follows is an exciting, tense, suspenseful, paranormal adventure, with some of our favorites helping each other out, especially when the Tribunal starts to threaten them. If you are new and love paranormal, urban fantasy, suspense, romance, great characters, you should be reading Dianna Love.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy supplied for review

Share

Justice for Liella by Deanndra Hall-Review Tour

Posted on by
12

JUSTICE FOR LIELLA (Police and Fire: Operation Alpha) by Deanndra Hall-Review 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

About the book: Release Date November 10, 2020

All he hears is the crackling of flames. All he wants to hear is her voice.

No one knows the value of family better than Breckin McDermott. He’s sure the pretty brunette he ran into at a Landon and Jerrica’s baby shower has a great family, since her brother is his coworker, and yet she seems sad and afraid. Once he learns of her past, he really wants to get to know her better.

With her successful treatment for PTSD completed, Liella Fox needs a career. Still uncomfortable in crowds, she embarks on an unconventional livelihood that’s perfect for her. Everyone thinks her family is wonderful, but she knows most of them will be critical and judgmental, so she’ll be alone in this adventure. At least her older brother, Landon, and his wife, Jerrica, are supportive.

At Landon’s suggestion, Breckin offers to help with Liella’s business plan. The idea of being alone with him makes her anxious and she’s reluctant to accept, but after his mother tells her Breckin’s story, her fears melt. Soon all she wants is to be near him. She’s trying to forge a new life, and she wants to share it with the tall, redhaired firefighter who makes her feel safe.

That’s if she gets the chance. Before she can get a foot up in the business, a surly, bitter competitor begins to stalk and threaten her. The guy despises her a little too much, maybe even enough to get her out of the way.

Forever.

But Breckin’s a man who’s waited his whole life for a woman to love. If anyone thinks they’ll take her away from him, they’ve seriously underestimated his determination when his heart is on the line.

••••••••

REVIEW: JUSTICE FOR LIELLA by Deanndra Hall is a contemporary, adult, romance story line found in the multi-authored POLICE AND FIRE: Operation Alpha series focusing on a number of characters created by author Susan Stoker. This is forty-one year old fire fighter Breckin McDermott, and thirty-three year old, farrier Liella Fox’s story line. JUSTICE FOR LIELLA can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines and series is revealed where necessary. Several characters from Deanndra Hall’s Bluegrass Dynasty cross-over for cohesion and familiarity. Liella Fox is Landon Fox’s(Shelter for Jerrica) sister.

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

Told from several third person perspectives including Breckin and Liella JUSTICE FOR LIELLA follows thirty-three year old, Liella Fox as she comes to a decision about her life and her future. Hoping to work as a farrier (forging iron and shoeing horses) Liella Fox embarks on a thirty-six week course that places her in a great position to be successful in her job. Needing a business plan to get started, Liella gets help from her brother’s co-worker and fellow fire fighter Breckin McDermott, the man with whom Liella will fall in love. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Breckin and Liella, and the potential fall out as one of the few female farriers in the area, Liella has rankled the misogynistic attitudes of a desperate man.

Liella Fox suffers with issues of PTSD but is slowly battling her way back. Meeting Breckin McDermott gave Liella thoughts for a future, thoughts that are almost destroyed by her over protective and condescending family members who believe Liella could do so much better than the path she has chosen. Breckin McDermott knows of the horrific incidence that Liella struggles to hide but meeting Breckin’s mother puts everything into perspective for our story line heroine, letting her know she is not alone in a world that is only too willing to tear you down.

The relationship between Liella and Breckin is one of immediate attraction. Breckin was first introduced to Liella months earlier at a baby shower for his co-worker Landon and his wife Jerrica. Wanting to take their relationship to the next level, Breckin bides his time in an effort to allow Liella the ability to accept what he has to offer, allowing our heroine to take control of their growing love. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate but a little awkward.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Liella’s brother Landon and his wife Jerrica, as well as their parents Louella and Robert, and brother Brandon; Breckin’s mother Iris and his step-father Jason; several firefighters, local farriers, farm owners and friends from Deanndra Hall’s Bluegrass Dynasty series.

JUSTICE FOR LIELLA is a story of family, friendships, relationships and love; a story of recovery and acceptance; success and over coming the odds. The premise is engaging; the romance is seductive; the characters are energetic, colorful and a little bit broken.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of SHELTER FOR TANNA

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Deanndra Hall is a working author living in the far western end of the beautiful Bluegrass State with her husband of over 35 years and small menagerie of weird little dogs. When she’s not writing, she’s editing. When she’s doing neither of those two things, she’s having dinner with friends, spending time with family, kayaking, eating chocolate, drinking beer or moonshine, or looking for something that she put in the wrong place and can’t seem to find (which is pretty much everything she owns).

Amazon | BookBub

 

Share

Not My Hero(Black Mountain Academy) by Michelle Heard-review tour

Posted on by
13

Not My Hero (Black Mountain Academy) by Michelle Heard-review 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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 9, 2020

He walked into school on his first day and didn’t care what the other students thought of him.

Dark. Broody. Dangerous.

He didn’t care where I cared too much.
Then the rumors started.
He failed his senior year at his previous school. His brother committed suicide. It’s his fault.

And for one blessed week, I wasn’t the topic of discussion.

You see, I’m the daughter of a socialite who has no soul. I’m the one paying for her sins. They never let me forget where I come from, and she never stops telling me what a failure I am.

But then Colton Lawson looks at me, and unlike the other students, his dark gaze seems to see through the lies spun around me.

He starts appearing out of nowhere, fighting my battles for me only to stalk away, making me feel like I’m nothing but a nuisance.

My name is Brie Weinstock, and this is my story of how a boy walked into my hell and fought for me, even though I never expected him to.

The question is, am I strong enough to repay the favor?

This is a high school romance that deals with sensitive subjects. Adult readers only.

••••••••

REVIEW: Not My Hero by Michelle Heard is a stand alone full length novel in The Black Mountain Academy Series. This series is also a spin off of the Trinity Academy and Cold Hearted Heir series.

Brie Weinstock has had a horrendous life. Facing almost daily physical and mental abuse from her mother Serena Weinstock who we met in The Trinity Academy. Serena hates her life, hates what she has become and she takes it all out on her daughter – daily! Brie does everything in her power to avoid the bully she lives with and the bullies at school. The bullies at school are brutal. Constant taunts, pushes and disgusting pranks. Brie has no safe haven. No place to go where she feels safe and can just breathe. That is until Black Mountain Academy gets a new make student.

Colton Lawson (who we met in Coldhearted Heir) has moved to a new town with his mom. Which means a new school. But his first day doesn’t go quite as he thought it would. He sees a girl that is constantly being bullied. She reminds him so much of his brother Brady. Brady and him suffered years of mental and physical abuse at the hands of their father. Until Brady could no longer take it and he committed suicide. Colton sees so much of Brady in Brie and he just wants to see her stand up for herself, and at the same time he wants to protect her.

Brie is such a sweet, innocent character who does not deserve the life she has been dealt. Her mother is brutal and evil. My heart broke for her and all she had to endure.

Colton is strong, protective and struggling with the loss of his brother. He instantly sees Brady in Brie and how she reacts to the world around her. He becomes the only friend she has. But the closer Brie and him become the more feelings he begins to experience. After a truly bad incident with Brie and her mother – he takes her to his house to stay. Vowing to keep her safe. But can he keep her safe from herself and her self loathing thoughts?

I enjoyed the way Colton took care of Brie. You could feel her struggle on every page. Thoroughly enjoyed! And while it deals with some horrific social issues it also shows you the power in helping another human in their time of need. I recommend all of the aforementioned series listed. It doesn’t get any better than continuing the lineage and the stories

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Erin K

About the Author:

Michelle Heard is a Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling Author who loves creating stories her readers can get lost in. She resides in South Africa with her son where she’s always planning her next book to write, and trip to take.

 Connect w/Michelle:

Website: https://michelleheardauthor.wordpress.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MHeardAuthor

FB Readers Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/118971435201074

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authormichelleheard

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MichelleAHorst

Amazon: https://amazon.com/author/michellehorst

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18108320.Michelle_Heard

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/michelle-heard

Newsletter Signup: http://eepurl.com/cUXM_P

Share

Leopard’s Rage by Christine Feehan-Review & Excerpt

Posted on by
13

Leopard’s Rage by Christine Feehan-Review & Excerpt

 

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 10, 2020

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

Leopard shifter Sevastyan Amurov has an anger inside of him that burns so hot it’s almost impossible to control. His barely leashed rage relentlessly threatens to break free, until he meets a woman who soothes his restless soul.

Sevastyan wants Flambe Carver with every breath. He’s determined that the fiery-haired woman will want to be his completely. But his would-be mate comes with strings attached—a relentless stalker who intends to claim her for his own.

They barely know each other, but with a very real threat looming just out of reach, Sevastyan takes Flambe under his protection. And as their connection grows, the embers of desire sparking between them soon burst into an inferno that will consume them both.

••••••••

REVIEW: LEOPARD’S RAGE is the twelfth instalment in Christine Feehan’s contemporary, adult LEOPARD PEOPLE erotic, paranormal, romance series focusing on leopard shifters. This is Russian leopard shifter Sevastyan Amurov, and landscaper/ strawberry leopard shifter Flambe Carver’s story line. LEOPARD’S RAGE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

WARNING: LEOPARD’S RAGE contains graphic scenes of violence and abuse, as well as scenes of bondage and Shibari rope play that may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Sevastyan and Flambe) following several paths, LEOPARD’S RAGE focuses on the building relationship between, and the claiming of landscaper/ strawberry leopard shifter Flambe Carver, and Russian leopard shifter Sevastyan Amurov. Rare strawberry leopard shifter Flambe Carver was hired by our hero to design and landscape his most recent acquired property but Flambe missed two previous appointments causing concern bordering on anger for Sevastyan Amurov until he discovers that our heroine is being stalked and threatened by another leopard shifter. In an effort to protect Flambe, Sevastyan and his leopard Shturm claim our story line heroine and her leopard Flamme, a claim to which Flambe agrees but struggles with in the ensuing days. What ensues is the building relationship between Flambe and Sevastyan, and the potential fall-out as Flambe has been targeted for what she is, and the work she does rescuing endangered and abused strawberry leopard shifters

The relationship between Sevastyan and Flambe goes downhill rather quickly as Flambe struggles with a claiming that was meant to protect her from another shifter. Flambe battles between head and heart, enjoying the Shibari rope play with our story line hero but our heroine fights her own leopard for control, and the unending pain and recoil with every touch. Flambe suffers with a series of physical and emotional issues, and in this, her relationship with Sevastyan continues to suffer. Sevastyan grew up knowing pain and rejection, and his earlier years resulted in the barely veiled rage and anger for our story line hero. Never expecting to find his own mate, Sevastyan struggles with Flambe’s inability to let go, to accept who she is, and accept the male shifter who is unable to love. The $ex scenes are intimate, aggressive, erotic, raw and intense with scenes of Shibari rope play and $ex.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including many we have met in previous instalments including Sevastyan’s cousins and extended family: Evangeline and Fyodor Amurov (Leopard’s Blood #8), Timur and Ashe Amurov (Leopard’s Run #10), Mitya and Ania (Leopard’s Wrath #11), as well as shifters Jake Bannaconni, Drake Donovan, Joshua Tegre, Elijah Lospostos, Eli Perez, Kirill Chernov, Matvei Bykov, Vikenti, and Zinoviy. The requisite evil has many faces.

LEOPARD’S RAGE is a story of betrayal, vengeance, power and control; a story of violence and abuse; anger and rage; struggle, acceptance, understanding and love. The premise is dramatic and intense; the romance mainly focuses on the Shibari rope play, and the couple’s highly and aggressive sexual needs due to Flambe entering the Han Vol Dan (heat); the characters are numerous, energetic, and edgy.

Now to address the elephant or leopard in the room…what’s with the author’s choice of names? Flambe? Flamme? Sure, the heroine is a strawberry shifter with red/ginger hair but I had a difficult time trying not to laugh every time I read the name. This is not the first time the author has chosen to use abstract names but Flambe is almost comedic in nature, and ill-suited for the intense and dramatic storyline premise.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Wild Rain
Burning Wild
Wild Fire
Savage Nature
Leopard’s Prey
Cat’s Lair
Wild Cat
Leopard’s Fury
Leopard’s Blood
Leopard’s Run
Leopard’s Wrath

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

 

Excerpt courtesy of Berkley publishing

 

 

(Chapter 1, page 6-8)
Sevastyan was unprepared for Shturm’s furious reaction. The leopard leapt at him, raking and clawing for freedom as if he would go hunting right then and find Flambé’s stalker. Sevastyan remained absolutely expressionless but he couldn’t stop himself from stepping in to her and circling her the way his leopard would, inhaling as he did so. The moment he did, his leopard went crazy. He felt a little insane himself. Her stalker was leopard. He wasn’t Amurov. He wasn’t from Russia, or from one of the lairs Sevastyan was familiar with, but none of that mattered, he was leopard and he was stalking Flambé for a reason.
“He struck you. Hit you. Did he do anything else to you?” Sevastyan forced himself to take a step back when he wanted—no—needed—to yank her closer, spin her around and see for himself.
Flambé frowned and touched the swelling on the side of her head, her hand trembling. She looked confused. “The moment he tried to throw me against the car, I fought him. He punched me and I went down to the pavement and hit my head very hard.”
Sevastyan wanted to pull her close to him, even on the pretense of just steadying her, but the attack had shaken her. Shturm was acting crazy, one minute rolling over and the next struggling to get out. He had to be careful with her.
“He straddled me, grabbing me by my hair, and I kneed him hard, managed to get to my feet and ran for your property. I’d been here a few times with my father so I knew approximately where the trees were the thickest. He’d planted them when I was really young.”
Sevastyan swore to himself. “Is this man someone you know? Someone you were promised to by your father?”
She tilted her head and studied his face for long moment before answering him. “No. He didn’t know my father. Clearly, you’re aware of what we are or you wouldn’t have been so set on hiring our company.”
“Before we go any further, if I ask you inside, will you be uncomfortable alone with me? There is no one else here. I didn’t know how much you knew about shifters and I wanted a chance to tell you what I needed from you when it came to landscaping without anyone around, but I don’t want you to be in the least uncomfortable. We can discuss this and then business on the outside patio if that is easier for you, but you need to sit down.”
Flambé hesitated, faint color stealing up her neck into her face, surprising him. Sevastyan studied her averted face as she once again peered over her shoulder before looking back at him. He had the feeling this time her hesitation wasn’t because she feared whoever it was that had struck her. She was avoiding looking at him.
“I’m not afraid of you. Your family has a certain reputation and there is honor and integrity involved.”
There was the smallest hint of untruth in her voice. She wasn’t afraid exactly, more like intimidated and he was okay with that. Sevastyan had been intimidating people nearly his entire life.
“And criminal activity,” he prompted.
For the first time a faint smile lit her face, doing extraordinary things to her eyes. “That too.”
He stepped back and held open the door. “Come in then. I’ve had a lot of work done to the interior, but it’s by no means finished.” He stayed where he was, forcing her to move past him. He took up a lot of space and that meant her smaller body would have to slide next to his, touching his briefly. He wanted to see what reaction his leopard would have. He already knew what reaction he had to her.


 

Christine Feehan is a #1 New York Times bestselling author multiple times over with her portfolio including over 70 published novels, including five series; Dark Series, Ghostwalker Series, Leopard Series, Drake Sisters Series, the Sisters of the Heart Series and Torpedo Ink. All of her series have hit the #1 spot on the New York Times bestselling list as well. Her debut novel Dark Prince received 3 of the 9 Paranormal Excellence Awards in Romantic Literature (PEARL) in 1999. Since then she has been published by various publishing houses including Leisure Books, Pocket Books, and currently is writing for Berkley/Jove. She also has earned 7 more PEARL awards since Dark Prince.

Follow: Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads

Share

Lady Lilias and the Devil in Plaid by Julie Johnstone-Review & Giveaway

Posted on by
29

Lady Lilias and the Devil in Plaid (Scottish Scoundrels: Ensnared Hearts #2) by Julie Johnstone-Review & Giveaway

Lady Lilias and the Devil in Plaid
Scottish Scoundrels: Ensnared Hearts #2
by Julie Johnstone
Genre: adult, historical, romance
Release Date: October 30, 2020

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 30, 2020

Free-spirited Lilias Honeyfield has a secret. She’s certain the rich and powerful Duke of Greybourne is meant to be hers. He just needs to reappear in her life and stop denying his love for her before she’s forced to wed another. Though it’s been seven years, she has never forgotten the beautiful but tormented man hiding behind the mask of moody boy, nor does she believe she imagined the searing passion between them. But the day Nash Steele finally returns to Town, the rogue destroys her hope by claiming he never returned her affection.

Nash Steele is haunted by his mistakes and the memories of the impetuous, headstrong beauty who breached his heart and soothed his soul years ago. But innocent Lilias was never meant to be his. And if he ever doubts it, he reminds himself of the tragic accident he caused soon after they met. His life is now, and will always be, one of penance. Unable to have the one woman he wants, the easiest thing to do is to flee. So when duty eventually forces him home, he intends to keep his distance from the ravishing creature. Yet when danger threatens her, he cannot sit by and allow her to be harmed. Every moment in her presence is sweet torture, and soon the need he has kept caged for years refuses to be contained any longer.

Swept together by burning desire but ensnared in a tangle of secrets and guilt, Lilias and Nash must fight to turn tragedy into triumph and the past that threatens to destroy them into the very thing that heals their hearts.

••••••••

REVIEW:Lady Lilias and the Devil in Plaid is the second novel in this series. It’s the story of Lady Lilias Honeyfield and Nash Steele, Duke of Greyborne.

They met as children/teenagers in Cotswolds, England. Lilias, Owen, and Nash became friends. It started when she and Owen (Earl of Blackwood and future Marquess of Craven) were crossing the River Eye on a log. Lilias was barefoot and wanting to show Owen a special spot she liked. Nash was standing near the bridge, watching. He saw her fall in and dove in to help. She was panicked and ended up breaking his nose with a kick, but he managed to get them out of the water, while Owen watched from the bank. Owen tried to be protective of Lilias, but she was having none of it. She was determined to make Nash their friend. He told them no more than his first name and left them, trying to keep to himself.

Nash was still reeling from his twin brother’s death a year earlier. He had always been told to let his brother Thomas win and to protect him. Thomas was born with weak lungs and a twisted leg. He was smaller than Nash, so his parents task Nash with trying to make Thomas feel better. Which got to be a little much, so one winter day Nash rebelled when Helen, their doctor’s daughter, was visiting and flirting with him. He kissed her, knowing Thomas liked her. Thomas got angry and charged out on the ice to stop Nash and fell through the ice. Nash dove in and tried to save Thomas but couldn’t find him in the murky freezing water. Nash now carries the idea that he doesn’t deserve to be happy…

That’s the very basic setup. There is so much more to this backstory, but I love the details and you really need to read all that happened for yourself.

Nash goes away to school, and only remains in contact with Owen. He feels he has no right to feel the way he does about Lilias and that Owen would be better for her. Over time, Owen tells him Lilias doesn’t ask about him and that she’s told Owen she loves him. Not just exaggerations but outright lies. Seven years later the inevitable begins when Nash comes home.

Julie Johnstone has created a wonderful story of such heartache and yet hope. The first novel in this series was wonderful and this one follows that path. The characters are unique, and each has much in their background to make their actions logical. It’s a wonderful tale of the times and yet shows the heartfelt stirrings of what a woman (and sometimes the men) sacrificed to their society. The conversations are rich and fun. The circumstances are interesting and add real depth to the storyline when the main characters find out much of what their parents were going through as well. It’s a fabulous read and I simply cannot wait for the next in this series.

Click HERE for Georgianna’s review of book one LADY GUINEVERE AND THE ROGUE WITH A BROGUE

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Georgianna

Follow: Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Newsletter

Author Julie Johnstone first fell in love with romance fifteen years ago when she picked up her first romance novel in an airport gift shop on the way to Conroe, Texas for a family reunion and spent her whole weekend reading rather than water skiing, which up until then was one of her favorite things to do.

Julie is staying up way too late and typing furiously on her keyboard to finish her next book or blog with her fellow authors at Ladyscribes. Julie is married to an amazing lawyer and when she is not running her two precocious children to one activity or another she is trying to seek out some time to stay in shape and see her dearest friends.

Julie Johnstone is graciously offering an ebook copy of LADY LILIAS AND THE DEVIL IN PLAID to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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

IMPORTANT: If you are having difficulty commenting after logging onto the site, please CLICK on the title, and it should take you directly to the post.

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

3. Follow Julie Johnstone on Facebook.

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

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

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

7. Please follow The Reading Cafe on Tumblr

8. Giveaway is open internationally

9. Giveaway runs from November 8-13, 2020

Share

Kissing Lessons by Stefanie London – a Review

Posted on by
13

Kissing Lessons by Stefanie London – a Review

 

Amazon / Kobo / Google Play / Apple

Description:

Welcome to Kissing Creek, where everything has a romance-themed pun for a name and love is lurking around every corner…

 

Audrey Miller doesn’t believe in happily-ever-after, so she is definitely living in the wrong town. But she’s never getting out of Kissing Creek, because playing pseudo-mom for her younger siblings doesn’t leave time for much else. She’ll do anything to make sure they don’t end up stuck like she is, working as a barista in a college town, serving Pink Passion mochas with Chocolate Smooch donuts.

 

Then Ronan Walsh, a new young professor and walking cliché, right down to the elbow patches on his blazer, steps in for a coffee and into her life. She knows his type—intelligent and charming, yet sweet as a cinnamon roll, the sort of man she’s inevitably attracted to but is always out of her league. So why does someone like him have any interest in a worker bee with no future?

 

Her bland-as-oatmeal existence has nothing to offer, but Ronan’s temporary teaching position is only a stepping stone on his way to somewhere else. He isn’t here to put down roots, Audrey’s roots are firmly planted—neither of them is looking for love. And maybe that’s just perfect.

 

But in a small town called Kissing Creek, sometimes love can be impossible to avoid…

 

Review:.

 

I’ve read a few of Stefanie London‘s  books, and they’ve always made me smile. Cute couples, laughs and enough passionate moments to keep me reading. Kissing Lessons is the first book in her new series “The Kissing Creek.”

 

Audrey had to become a mother to her siblings at the young age of 15, her father was still around, but he just fell apart! So she left school and ran the household. She worked hard and forgot about her dreams, she didn’t want the same thing for her siblings, so she pushed and helped them live their dreams. Working two jobs and finding odd jobs around town for extra money, Audrey doesn’t have a lot of spare time, but she goes to night classes at college when she can. 

I loved Audrey, although she’d put her siblings first, she never really resented them (even though they really put on her at sometimes!) And I know grief affects people in different ways, but her father needed a talking too!! 

 

Ronan had moved back to the states from England so he could be closer to his grandmother after she had a stroke. He took a position at the college in Kissing Creek with only a one-year contract. He isn’t looking looking for a relationship or anything long term, because he doesn’t know where he’s going to be in a years time (he definitely doesn’t want to be here forever) he’s also not really family orientated, he loves his sister and his grandmother, but he just doesn’t believe his mother and her lies! 

He really doesn’t want to be in this dilly little town, but all that goes out of the window when he meets Audrey, she intrigues him, she challenges him (and he’s not had that in a long time) and her quirky manner makes him smile. 

 

The first time they meet is funny, she assumes he’s trying to get a professors discount on his coffee and muffin, then chaos and hilarity ensues. He leaves with a smirk on his face, Audrey is left red faced and ready for a rematch! 

Then it’s game on. He needs to find a question that will stump Audrey, she is just a female version of google. 

 

There were family members on both sides of the MC’s I just didn’t like. Ronan’s mother (a self absorbed woman was one) his grandmother although funny, spoke her mind, and was a little abrasive with it! Her father put her dreams down at every opportunity (would throw her dead mother at her and guilt her into backing down!) And Audrey’s siblings just took her for granted! No wonder neither MC wanted to find love! Love was painful, love was losing loved ones, no, not for either of them.  But there is an attraction between them that they just can’t deny, but Ronan wont be trapped here, and Audrey just can’t abandon her family!  The trivia parts were fun, but it became a little too much in places. 

 

So will Ronan stay and become a small town professor? Can Audrey continue her part time education? Or will it be easier just to walk away? 

 

I really enjoyed reading it and look forward to the next book in the series. 

Reviewed by Julie

Copy provided by Publisher

Share