DREAM SPINNER (Dream Team 3) by Kristen Ashley -a review

DREAM SPINNER (Dream Team 3) by Kristen Ashley

 

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 25, 2021

two damaged souls must overcome the pain of their pasts to have the love they’ve always dreamed of.

Hattie Yates has finally met the man of her dreams. Yet years of abuse from her demanding father have left her petrified of disappointment. She’s already failed to reach her goal of becoming a professional ballerina—she can’t handle the terrible consequences of another dream becoming a nightmare. But when a stalker sets their sights on Hattie, there’s only one man she dares to hope can help . . .

Axl Pantera knows Hattie is the only woman for him. Yet despite the attraction burning between them, Hattie refuses to let him in. The former soldier is determined to woo her into letting down her walls. And when danger comes calling, he’s up against more than her wary and bruised heart. Axl will do anything to prove to Hattie that they’re meant to be, but first, he’ll need to keep her safe.

•••••••••

REVIEW: DREAM SPINNER is the third instalment in Kristen Ashley’s contemporary, adult DREAM TEAM erotic, romance series focusing on a group of exotic dancers who call themselves the ‘Dream Team’. This is twenty-six year old dancer/ artist Hattie Yates, and thirty four year old, former soldier turned commando Axl Pantera’s story line. DREAM SPINNER and the Dream Team series is a spin-off from the author’s Rock Chick, Chaos and Dream Man series. DREAM SPINNER can be read as a stand alone but for back story and cohesion I recommend reading the series in orders as there is an ongoing plotline throughout.

Told from first person perspective (Hattie) and third person (Axl) including a couple final chapters from Pepper and Lee, DREAM SPINNER follows the building romance and relationship between twenty-six year old dancer/ artist Hattie Yates, and thirty four year old, former soldier turned commando Axl Pantera. For months, Hattie Yates has refused all advances from our story line hero but someone has placed a target on our heroine’s back, and Axl is livid that she called in help from someone else. Taking control of the situation, Axl moves Hattie into his house, and resumes protection and guardianship of the woman that calls to his heart. Using all of the resources offered by Hawk and his team of commandos (a group of former US soldiers who now work domestic civilian contracts for Hawk Delgado), Axl and his friends must come to terms that sins of the past are threatening the women they love. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Axl and Hattie as our couple navigate the fall-out of dysfunctional family dynamics, and the threats to our story line heroine.

Meanwhile, Axl and Hattie have personal family issues that are about to implode. Axl Pantera knows the disappointment of rejection first hand as he struggles with the mess of his father’s misplaced affection. From his long-suffering mother to his father’s inability to see beyond the bottom line, Axl refuses to become what his father has always expected. Hattie Yates is in a co-dependant relationship with her father, a man uses his ill-health to control the only woman left in his life. Hattie’s mother left years before but our heroine refuses to sit back and watch her father destroy his life.

The relationship between Hattie and Axl began months before as Hattie continues to rebuke Axl’s advances believing herself not worthy of love or a happily ever after but as the threats to our heroine take on a more personal and sexual nature, Hattie slowly discovers that Axl is the man that calls to her heart. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense but once again, I struggle with the use of a certain four-letter word in my romance story line.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and familiar secondary and supporting characters including many from the author’s previous series. We welcome the return of Hawk Delgado, Augustus Auggie Hero; Mo and Lottie, Ryn and Boone, Mag and Evie; Elvira; the ‘Dream Team’ dancers, Pepper, and Ava; their boss Smithie, and security specialist and Smithie’s nephew Dorian; Mama Nana, and her security guard Jorge; and Cicso aka Brett Rappaport, as well as the introduction of both Hattie and Axl’s parents.

DREAM SPINNER is a story of family, friendships, relationships and love; a story of dysfunctional family dynamics, revelations and acceptance; romance and love. The premise is engaging, intriguing and captivating; the romance is seductive and steamy; the characters are broken but healing. DREAM SPINNER ends on happily ever after-for now, as the people threatening our story line heroine have yet to be revealed.

Reading Order and previous reviews
Quiet Man
Dream Maker
Dream Chaser

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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MY CRUEL SALVATION (Fallen Saint 3) by J. Kenner-a review

MY CRUEL SALVATION (Fallen Saint 3) by J. Kenner-a review

 

 

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 18, 2021

Don’t miss the final exciting and romantic chapter in Devlin and Ellie’s love story.

He’ll keep her safe, no matter the price.

Investigative reporter Ellie Holmes has uncovered billionaire Devlin Saint’s dark and dangerous secrets, and he has both stripped away her protective armor and tamed the wildness within her. Bound by a shared past and the hope of a blissful future, they grow even closer, each exposing more of themselves as their love deepens.

But now that Devlin’s true identity has been publicly revealed, old enemies appear, intent on destroying Devlin. And while he vows to enlist all of his resources to protect her, Ellie soon realizes that the only way to save them both is to take the last, final step to fully join Devlin in the dark.

•••••••••

REVIEW: MY CRUEL SALVATION is the third instalment in J. Kenner’s contemporary, adult FALLEN SAINT erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on former police officer turned investigative journalist Ellie Holmes, and billionaire investor Devlin Saint. MY CRUEL SALVATION should not be read as a stand alone as if picks up after the events of book two MY BEAUTIFUL SIN.

SOME BACKGROUND: Ten years after the death of her uncle Peter, former police officer turned investigative journalist Ellie Holmes returns to her home town of Laguna Cortez when the police reopen the investigation into her uncle’s murder, a return that brings Ellie face to face with her past, Alex Leto, now known as billionaire philanthropist/ investor Devlin Saint, the man who broke our heroine’s heart.

Told from first person perspective (Ellie Holmes), and third person (Devlin Saint) using present day and memories from the past, MY CRUEL SALVATION picks up immediately after the events and cliff hanger of MY BEAUTIFUL SIN wherein Devlin Saint is preparing to accept a humanitarian award but everything begins to spiral out of control when the demons from his past are revealed for the world to see. As Devlin and his right-hand man Ronan begin an investigation into the who, how and why, secrets reveal another betrayal, and the team at Saint’s Angels exact revenge for sins of the past, revenge that will place our couple in the direct line of fire.

MY CRUEL SALVATION is a continuing story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, secrets, lies, romance and love. A tale of twisted and haunting deception blended into a love story of second chances. The character driven premise is intricate, tragic and real; the romance is seductive and edgy-the sexual chemistry is fiery hot; the characters are energetic, clever and dramatic. The Fallen Saint series continues with Ronan and Brandy’s story in Sinner’s Game.

Reading Order and Previous reviews
My Fallen Saint
My Beautiful Saint

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

J. Kenner (aka Julie Kenner) is the New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly, Wall Street Journal and #1 International bestselling author of over seventy novels, novellas and short stories in a variety of genres.

Though known primarily for her award-winning and international bestselling erotic romances (including the Stark and Most Wanted series) that have reached as high as #2 on the New York Times bestseller list, JK has been writing full time for over a decade in a variety of genres including paranormal and contemporary romance, “chicklit” suspense, urban fantasy, and paranormal mommy lit.

JK has been praised by Publishers Weekly as an author with a “flair for dialogue and eccentric characterizations” and by RT Bookclub for having “cornered the market on sinfully attractive, dominant antiheroes and the women who swoon for them.” A five time finalist for Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA award, JK took home the first RITA trophy awarded in the category of erotic romance in 2014 for her novel, Claim Me (book 2 of her Stark Trilogy). Her Demon Hunting Soccer Mom series (as Julie Kenner) is currently in development with AwesomenessTV/Awestruck.

Her books have sold over three million copies and are published in over twenty languages.

In her previous career as an attorney, JK worked as a clerk on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and practiced primarily civil, entertainment and First Amendment litigation in Los Angeles and Irvine, California, as well as in Austin, Texas. She currently lives in Central Texas, with her husband, two daughters, and two rather spastic cats.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YouTube | Amazon Author Page

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Beth and Amy by Virginia Kantra – a Review

Beth and Amy by Virginia Kantra – a Review

 

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Description:
Amy March is more like her older sister Jo than she’d like to admit. An up-and-coming designer in New York’s competitive fashion industry, ambitious Amy is determined to get out of her sisters’ shadow and keep her distance from their North Carolina hometown. But when Jo’s wedding forces her home, she must face what she really wants…and confront the One Big Mistake that could upend her life and forever change her relationship with Jo.

Gentle, unassuming Beth grew up as the good girl of the family. A talented singer-songwriter, she’s overcome her painful anxiety to tour with country superstar Colt Henderson. But life on the road has taken its toll on her health and their relationship. Maybe a break to attend her sister’s wedding will get her out of her funk. But Beth realizes that what she’s looking for and what she needs are two very different things….

With the March women reunited, this time with growing careers and families, they must once again learn to lean on one another as they juggle the changes coming their way.

 

 

Review:

Beth and Amy by Virginia Kantra is another wonderful, heartwarming modernized retelling of Little Women.  Previously, I did enjoy the story of Meg and Jo, and now we get to see Beth and Amy’s story. 

Amy works in New York with a successful start as a fashion designer of handbags, Baggage.  She is going home to attend her sister Jo’s wedding, and dreads meeting up with Trey (Jo’s former boyfriend), whom she has always had a crush on; as well as keep the secret that she and Trey had sex a few years ago.  Has she gotten over her feelings for Trey?

Beth is a singer, who writes her own songs, which has won awards; she is part of a band, with Cole, the lead singer.  Beth has anxiety issues, and struggling to maintain control of her fears.  She also goes home to attend her sister’s wedding, and the family worries about her being too thin, though Beth ensures them she is fine. But is she really?

We also get a few POV’s on the March mother, Abby, who runs the farm, and always watches over her daughters; especially with the father never around.  With the family gathering, the father does come back and plans to stay, much to Abby’s discomfort.

Amy secretly begins to see Trey again, though he is not ready for a permanent relationship.  Amy plans to go back to New York, but she needs financial help to allow her to hire more people, since the orders have risen drastically.  Aunt Phee is willing to offer her help, but she has conditions for Amy, who must decide if she will accept the offer.

The family becomes concerned when Beth becomes sick and faints, though she says she is fine.  When she is ready to go back to the band, Beth will suffer a collapse and the family learns the truth about her condition, which she will need to change her life for the better; especially her anxieties.

As I did in the first book, I really loved both Beth and Amy, as they both had their own issues, but it was great to see all the girls, as the sisterhood between the 4 girls was awesome.  

Beth and Amy is another heartwarming and enjoyable story of family, loyalty, daily family problems and the sisterhood we came to love.  Though most of the story centered on Amy and Beth, it was also great to see Meg/John and Jo/Eric wonderful relationship.    Beth and Amy is a sweet, realistic and fun story that was very well written by Virginia Kantor.

Beth and Amy, as well as Meg and Jo, were both wonderful books that were fun, enjoyable, warm, loving stories. I suggest you read both books in order, as Virginia Kantra gave us a fabulous modernized version of Little Woman.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

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A Surrealist Affair by Jacqueline Corcoran – a Review

The Surrealist Affair by Jacqueline Corcoran – a Review

 

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Description:
Elle Dakin is shocked when she’s given the opportunity to fly to Paris to attribute a newly discovered painting to her favorite artist. After all, why would they choose a broke, struggling Art History doctoral student for such an honored task? When she arrives in Paris, she realizes the deal was too good to be true—suddenly she’s neck deep in a murder, an international art theft, and threats to her safety. Thank goodness Ryan, an art exporter, comes to her aid, protecting her from the dangerous side of Paris and those who would try to harm her. And it doesn’t hurt that he’s sinfully handsome…until she discovers he has just as many secrets as everyone she’s met on this trip of a lifetime gone wrong…

The last assignment undercover FBI agent Ryan DeLong wants is to investigate art theft. But here he is, stuck in Paris, chasing down the thieves of a million-dollar masterpiece. The only bright spot is Elle, the shy but enchanting doctoral student who teaches him about more than just the beauty of Surrealism. He can’t tell her the truth of his identity, plus he refuses to get romantically involved with anyone while he’s on a case. But when he learns Elle also has things to hide, he begins to doubt everything he thought he knew about her.

 

Review:

Elle Dakin is trying to figure out what to do her doctoral thesis about. A call from a friend of her advisor sends Elle to Paris for authenticating a painting by a famous French artist. Ryan DeLong is wanting to get back to working for the FBI Counterterrorism unit from the art theft department. The recent theft of that same French artist’s painting sends him to Paris looking for the painting. Elle’s second trip to Paris is anything but wonderful.Ryan isn’t enthusiastic with Paris and doesn’t see the charm. Elle and Ryan’s continued consequential meetings will bring danger, passion and The Surrealist Affair.

Jacqueline Corcoran’s The Surrealist Affair is a suspenseful story of the theft of a famous painting that takes her main characters on a dangerous trip to Paris following leads and looking for a new painting of the famous artist. The intrigue will keep you guessing what just may come next. A PhD student will find danger and possibly love on a trip to Paris for authenticating a new painting by a famous French artist. Elle Dakin’s trip to Paris doesn’t go as planned and a handsome stranger catches her attention. A FBI agent wanting to get back to a very dangerous unit will follow clues and his intuition to find a painting, passion and a killer.

The Surrealist Affair keeps the reader on the edge with where is the painting, whose behind all the danger. Who murdered the grandson of a famous artist? Will he be able to save the damsel in distress? With danger around every corner, a chance to get back to a dream job, a passion between two people just end in The Surrealist Affair.

Jacqueline Corcoran writes a story full of suspense, intrigue, and keep the reader guessing on who is behind it all. The reader will be surprised by the bad guys and the twist and turns in this story of art theft, fraud, and things not being as they seem. The truth just may be what this PhD student needs to finally write to finish graduate school. The Surrealist Affair is a dangerous trip to Paris, France that will surprise the reader and wanting them to come back for more Jacqueline Corcoran.

Reviewed by Kim

Copy provided by Publisher

 

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The Tillman Crush by Kelly Gendron-Review & Excerpt tour

The Tillman Crush by Kelly Gendron-Review & Excerpt tour

 

 

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 18, 2021

It took ten seconds to fall for her, one accident to lose her, and seven years to get back to her

SADIE
Britt Tillman was a jerk.
Yet I was forced to tolerate him.
Our parents were best friends.
I’m not sure if I hated him or if I secretly wanted him.
Then Britt kissed me.
He growled when his mouth touched mine.
His lips were soft. His hold was firm.
The next day, he vanished.
After seven years, he’s back with a sexy smile, flirty eyes, and jacked muscles.
Not that I care.
Let him slather on the charm.
I won’t give in to The Tillman Crush.
Not this time.

BRITT
Sadie Holland. Beautiful. Smart.
The untouchable girl next door.
Growing up, I wanted her.
To keep her at a safe distance, I was mean to her.
Then, the accident happened.
With my mom gone, my father turned to the bottle.
So I left town the first chance I got.
Now, I’m back and not just for Sadie.
The other thing I want.
Well, the girl I came back for might not like it.
Still, I won’t stop until I get what I want.
Not this time.

•••••••

REVIEW:THE TILLMAN CRUSH by Kelly Gendron is a stand alone, contemporary, adult, erotic, romance story line focusing on twenty-six year old, micro brewery owner Britt Tillman, and twenty three year old Sadie Holland’s story line.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Sadie and Britt) using present day and memories from the past THE TILLMAN CRUSH follows the best friend’s little sister /frenemies relationship between twenty-six year old, micro brewery owner Britt Tillman, and twenty three year old Sadie Holland. Most of her life Sadie Holland had been in love with her brother’s best friend Britt Holland until the day he kissed her good bye without looking back. Fast forward to present day wherein secrets are about to reveal the truth about what happened years before with Britt’s return to his hometown to claim our story line heroine. What ensues is the rebuilding relationship, friendship and romance between Britt and Sadie, and the potential fall-out as Sadie struggles with issues of trust, and Britt’s dismissive attitude years before.

Britt Tillman never wanted to leave Sadie behind but in an effort to escape the dysfunction of his family, Britt knew he had to leave in order to survive. Breaking Sadie’s heart was never what he wanted but life and everything it had to offer, was just beyond the horizon. Sadie Holland never recovered from the heart break of Britt Tillman’s kiss good bye. Without a word, Britt disappeared from their lives, and in the ensuing years life changed for everyone involved but now that Britt was back in town, secrets are revealed, lies exposed, and everything Sadie thought she knew, would turn out to be a lie.

The relationship between Sadie and Britt is one of second chances, of a sorts, for two people whose lives went in different directions. Britt’s return comes with the promise of a happily ever after but Sadie struggles in the face of betrayal and lies. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

The colorful secondary and supporting characters reveal a past mired in secrets and abuse. We are introduced to Sadie’s brother Caleb; one-time school bully Cole; Britt’s business manager Reece; Sadie and Caleb’s father Calvin Holland; and memories of Britt’s parents.I am hoping the author has plans for Caleb, Reece and Cole.

THE TILLMAN CRUSH is a story of family, friendships, relationships and love; a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and heart break; forgiveness and hope. The premise is emotional and heart breaking yet there are several fun and flirty moments as our couple reflect on past experiences; the romance is seductive and hot; the characters are wonderful but broken and moving forward.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

 

 

“No.” I snag my gun back from him. “It’s not loaded.”
“Good. I wouldn’t want my welcome home to be a shot in the ass from an old friend.”
Did he just refer to me as his friend?
“Home?”
“Yes, Sadie. Home.”
“So you plan on staying?”
“Yes.”
“Like you’re going to live here? Up there, in your dad’s house, from now on? You’re not leaving?”
“I can’t tell if that’s dread, disbelief, or uncertainty in your voice.”
Pick one, or better yet, all of the above nearly falls from my mouth, but everything stops when he reaches out and pinches the end of my braid. Well, everything except whatever is going on between my legs.
Yeah, that still wants to run over and give him…a hug?
Which is strange, considering Britt Tillman wasn’t one of those guys who made me bat my eyes or twirl my hair. No. He made my blood boil and fists clench. He didn’t say much, but it was usually a one-liner that I had a hard time figuring out when he did. After all, he’s almost three years older than me. So, when comparing fifteen to almost eighteen, there’s a difference. I’d like to think now that I’m older that there’s less of an understanding gap.
He stares down at his fingers. “I thought you were done wearing braids when you turned fourteen?” His eyes lift to mine. “I always liked them on you.”
Alright, no misunderstanding there. That was a compliment. What the hell is going on? I’m not sure how to react.
“Okay!” I hold up my hands. “All I want to know is what you did with Britt Tillman.” I laugh but fall short when he pulls on my braid.
He draws me closer to him. His head bends, and his smile melts away.
His lips relax inches from mine.
His eyes darken.
“Look really close, Sadie.” He pauses long enough for me to take that look, and everything he ever made me feel, good and bad, floods through me. “He’s still in here.”
The night he left comes crashing into me. The growl he made when his mouth touched mine. The way his lips were soft and his hold was firm. I was sixteen. I’d kissed a boy before, but none like Britt. He frightened me, and he made me feel something new… something I’ve been looking for but haven’t found since that kiss.
“Yes.” I yank my hair from his fingers and arch back. “I can see that.” I run my hand over my braid.
He stands up straight and smiles, but it doesn’t reach his eyes. They remain dark and astute as though he knows what’s between my legs and that it wants to jump all over his ripped body.
Damn him! I’m not going back there. He confused me that night, and then he left!
“Well.” His head dips. “I’ll see you tomorrow then.”
“Tomorrow?”
“Yeah.” He grins. “Didn’t Caleb tell you? He invited me over for dinner.”
“Caleb knows you’re in town?”
He laughs. This time, the gesture lights up his eyes. “I’ll see ya, Sadie.”
“Yeah,” I watch him turn and walk toward his truck.
Wait until I see my brother! He could’ve warned me Britt Tillman was back!

 

Kelly’s motto ~ “Bad boys, give ’em a little time and experience, and they will evolve into misbehaving men!” And what hot-blooded woman doesn’t want a naughty, all grown up bad boy?

Kelly Gendron is the author of the TroubleMaker series, the up and coming series ~ Breaking the Declan Brothers, and a few other romantic suspense novels.

When she’s not writing steamy, blush producing romances, she’s out meeting new people while representing a group of reputable nursing facilities. You can find Kelly in a quiet suburb, somewhere between Buffalo and Niagara Falls. If you Google her, she’ll pop up there too. And, please do find her. Kelly loves to hear from her readers, and meeting new people.

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Fake (West Hollywood 1) by Kylie Scott-Review & Excerpt Tour

Fake (West Hollywood 1) by Kylie Scott-Review & Excerpt Tour

 

 

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Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3egt0j3

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 18, 2021

He walks the red carpet. She’s more familiar with vacuuming one.

When a scandal tarnishes the reputation of hot as hell A-lister, Patrick Walsh, he needs a reputation rescue, pronto.

Enter waitress Norah Peers–a nobody who’s average with a capital A. She’s available, dependable, and has sworn off men for the rest of her natural born life. In other words: the perfect match for a no-strings fake romance.

For the right amount of money, she can avoid waitressing and play the part of his dependable down-to-earth girlfriend. What she can’t avoid–dammit–is the growing steam between them.

But being hounded by the paparazzi and having her life dissected on social media is a panic attack in the making. And while Patrick might be a charming rogue on screen, in real life he’s a six-foot-two confusing, gorgeous, brooding grump, who keeps her at a distance . . . but also makes her feel like this bond between them might be more than just an act.

Being dumped on cue should be no big deal. Except being fake with Patrick is the realist relationship Norah has ever had. What’s a girl to do, but flip the script, and ask for a re-match made in Hollywood?

••••••

REVIEW:FAKE is the first instalment in Kylie Scott’s contemporary, adult WEST HOLLYWOOD erotic, romances series. This is thirty-six year old, Hollywood action star Patrick Walsh, and twenty-nine year old, waitress Norah Peers’ story line.

Told from first person perspective (Norah) FAKE follows in the aftermath of a Hollywood scandal in which action star Patrick Walsh’s reputation has been tarnished. In an effort to ‘clean up’ our hero’s image, his publicist suggests a fake relationship but Patrick doesn’t like any of the ‘candidates’ applying for the job. Enter waitress Norah Peers, and the woman with whom Patrick will fall in love. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Patrick and Norah, and the potential fall-out as Patrick’s past come looking for a second chance.

Patrick Walsh never expected to find himself the subject of tabloid fodder but a disastrous relationship with a Hollywood starlet found Patrick the fall guy to protect the reputation of the woman he thought he could love. Needing to clean up his image, Patrick suggests our story line heroine, a ‘nobody’ who works at the local Italian eatery where our hero frequents at least once a month. Norah Peers isn’t comfortable playing the love interest of Patrick Walsh –the paparazzi intrusion, and secrets from her past are exposed to the world in an effort to embarrass our story line heroine but Norah finds herself falling for her current ‘employer’, a fall that is likely to break her heart. Norah is a spirited and sassy sweetheart; a relatable character who tries to fit in where she doesn’t belong.

The relationship between Patrick and Norah begins as a fake boyfriend/girlfriend in an effort to clean up Patrick’s Hollywood image. When the roles begin to dry up, Patrick’s PR person works overtime in an effort to infuse some much needed support using our heroine in the process but Patrick intends to keep their relationship on a professional level, much to the disappointment our Norah and her heart. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text but…I did not feel the palpable sexual attraction or desire between our leading couple as Patrick tended to remain aloof and unemotional throughout the story. I think, if the story had been presented in dual first person perspectives, we would have seen a different, more empathetic side to our story line hero.

The secondary and supporting characters include Patrick’s assistant Mei, his PR rep Angie as well as Norah’s strong-willed and no-nonsense grandmother; Patrick’s friends Cole Landry and Jack Gilmour; Patrick’s ex Liv Anders.

FAKE is a story of betrayal and acceptance; fake relationships and tarnished reputations. The premise is captivating and engaging; the romance is passionate and intense; the characters are energetic. The conflict resolution was a little too easy, I was hoping for more angst and emotional turmoil.

Copy Supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

CHAPTER ONEHe slunk into the restaurant mid-afternoon wearing his usual scowl. Ignoring the CLOSED sign, he took a booth near the back. No one else was allowed to do this. Just him. Today’s wardrobe consisted of black jeans, Converse, and a button-down shirt. Doubtless designer. And the way those sleeves hugged his biceps . . . why, they should have been ashamed of themselves. I was this close to yelling “get a room.”
Instead, I asked, “The usual?”
Slumped down in the corner of the booth, he tipped his chin in reply. For such a tall guy, he sure went out of his way to try to hide.
I said no more. Words were neither welcomed nor wanted. Which was fine since (A) I was tired and (B) he tipped well for the peace and quiet.
Out back, Vinnie the cook was busy prepping for tonight, his knife making quick work of an onion.
“He’s here,” I said.
A smile split Vinnie’s face. He was a huge fan of the man’s action films. The ones he’d made before hitting it big time and taking on more serious dramatic roles. Him choosing to visit the restaurant every month or so made Vinnie’s life complete. Especially since the restaurant, Little Italy, was the very definition of a hole in the wall. Not somewhere generally frequented by the Hollywood elite. Meanwhile, I was less of a fan, but still a fan. You know.
“Get him his beer,” Vinnie ordered.
Like I didn’t know my job. Sheesh.
He was busy with his cell by the time I placed the Peroni in front of him. No glass. He drank straight from the bottle like an animal. Just then, a woman in a red sweater dress and tan five-inch-heel booties strode in through the front door.
“I’m sorry, we’re closed,” I said.
“I’m with him.” She headed straight for his booth and slid into the other side, giving the man a dour look. “You can’t just walk out, Patrick. You’re going to have to choose one of them.”
“Nope.” He took a pull from his beer. “They all sucked.”
“There had to be at least one that would do.”
“Not even a little.”
She sighed. “Keep this up and you’ll be obsolete by next week. Beyond help. Forgotten.”
“Go away, Angie.”
“Just another talented but trash male in Hollywood. That’s what they’re saying on social media.”
“I don’t give a shit.”
“Liar,” she drawled.
I wasn’t quite sure what to do. Obviously they knew each other, but he did not seem to want her here. And she really wasn’t supposed to be here. Vinnie had okayed after-hours entry to only one person. On the other hand, if I asked her to leave, she’d probably sic her lawyers on me. She looked the type.
The woman spied me hovering. “Get me a glass of red.”
“She’s not staying,” countermanded Patrick.
Angie didn’t move an inch. “They were all viable options. Pliant. Young. Pretty. Discreet. Nothing weird or kinky in their backgrounds.”
“That might have made them more interesting.”
“Interesting women is what got you into this mess.” The woman frowned, taking me in. Still hovering. One perfectly shaped brow rose in question. “Yes? Is there a problem?”
Now it was Patrick’s turn to sigh and give me a nod. He was so dreamy with his jaw and cheekbones and his everything. Real classic Hollywood handsome. Especially with his short light brown hair in artful disarray and a hint of stubble. Sometimes it was hard not to stare. Which is probably why his personality tended to scream “leave me alone.”
I headed for the small bar area at the back of the restaurant to fetch the wine like a good little waitress.
“We shouldn’t be discussing this here,” said Angie, giving the room a disdainful sniff. Talk about judgy. I thought the raw brick walls and chunky wood tables were cool. Give or take Vinnie’s collection of old black-and-white photos of Los Angeles freeways. Who knew what that was about?
Patrick slumped down even further. “I’m not going back there. I’m done with it.”
“This isn’t safe.” Angie looked around nervously. “Let’s—”
“We’re fine. I’ve been coming here for years.”
“You just got dropped from a big-budget film, Patrick,” she said, exasperation in her tone. “The industry may not find you bankable right now, but I’m sure gossip about you is still selling just fine. This week at least.”

 

 

Kylie is a long time fan of erotic love stories and B-grade horror films. She demands a happy ending and if blood and carnage occur along the way then all the better. Based in Queensland, Australia with her two children and one delightful husband, she reads, writes and never dithers around on the internet

Stalk Kylie Scott: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

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Resurrection of the Heart by Natasha Knight & A Zavarelli- tour

Resurrection of the Heart (The Society Trilogy 3) by Natasha Knight & A Zavarelli-Review tour

 

 

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Apple / Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Santiago finally has what he wants. His baby is growing inside me.

I’ve rewritten her destiny, binding her to me for good.

Things are changing for us. I see beyond the monster he shows the world. See the scars he hides beneath the ink.

Love is a weakness men like me can’t afford. I’ve decided to keep her, but I’ll never forfeit my revenge.

His final betrayal proves his vengeance means more to him than our love.

I will have my pound of flesh, no matter the cost.

I made a mistake trusting him. I forgot how much he likes my tears.

When I am through, I’ll have what I thought I always needed.

I’ll run from him. I’ll have to.

I’ll bring her back when she runs. I’ll always bring her back. She belongs with me.

But it’s too late when I realize he’s not the only monster in my world. And that mistake will cost us both dearly.

•••••••

REVIEW:RESURRECTION OF THE HEART is the third and final instalment in the contemporary, adult SOCIETY erotic, dark, romance, organized crime trilogy co-authored by Natasha Knight and A. Zavarelli focusing on crime lord and Society member Santiago De La Rosa, and Ivy Moreno. RESURRECTION OF THE HEART should not be read as a stand alone as it pick up immediately after the cliff hanger and events of book two REPARATION OF SIN.

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

NOTE: If you have not read books one or two, there may be spoilers in my review.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Santiago and Ivy) RESURRECTION OF THE HEART picks up immediately after the events and cliff hanger of book two REPARATION OF SIN wherein Ivy, in an effort to protect her unborn child and her ailing father, runs from the man with whom she is falling in love, into the arms of a more dark and dangerous predator. Fighting for her life and the life of her child, Ivy struggles between head and heart, unable to trust the people claiming to want to keep her safe, or the people who continue to place her in the direct line of fire. But a new betrayal forces Ivy to reconsider her future, a future she may not live long enough to see to fruition. What ensues is the back and forth, acrimonious and tempestuous relationship between Ivy and Santiago, and the potential fall-out as sins from the past reveal a darker secret than anyone could have imagined.

Santiago De La Rosa does not know how to love but something about Ivy begins to thaw his once frozen heart. When Ivy’s life is placed in danger on more than one occasion, Santiago will stop at nothing to take down the people responsible even if it mean to destroy one-time family and so-called friends. Knowing that his original plans to take down the once mighty Moreno dynasty starting with the destruction of the woman he loves may no longer be an option, there is always someone else waiting to usurp the power and control.

The relationship between Ivy and Santiago continues to be fraught with issues of trust; a relationship predicated upon revenge and betrayal; a love affair replete with menace and insecurity, secrets and lies. The $ex scenes are passionate, erotic and intense.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, energetic and captivating secondary and supporting characters whose purpose builds an intriguing and mysterious story line premise. Here’s hoping the authors have plans for Ivy’s sisters, as well as Mercedes and Judge.

RESURRECTION OF THE HEART is a story of betrayal and vengeance, revelations and acceptance, forgiveness and love. The premise is raw and twisted; the romance is intense and dramatic; the characters are flawed, edgy and tragic. RESURRECTION OF THE HEART is an emotional and startling conclusion to the Society Trilogy.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

Requiem of the Soul
Reparation of Sin

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

About A. Zavarelli:

Zavarelli is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author of dark and contemporary romance.

When she’s not putting her characters through hell, she can usually be found watching bizarre and twisted documentaries in the name of research.

She currently lives in the Northwest with her lumberjack and an entire brood of fur babies.

Connect w/A. Zavarelli:

Website: https://www.azavarelli.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AZavarelli
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AZavarellibooks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/azavarelli/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/a-zavarelli
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/13549895.A_Zavarelli
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2S3zrKS
Newsletter Signup: http://www.azavarelli.com/#!mailing-list/c46c

•••••••••••

About Natasha Knight:

USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance, Natasha Knight specializes in dark, tortured heroes. Happily-Ever-Afters are guaranteed, but she likes to put her characters through hell to get them there. She’s evil like that.

 Connect w/Natasha:
Website: https://natasha-knight.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natashaknightauthor
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheKnightSpot
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/NatashaKnight13
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natashaknight13/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/natashaknight13/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6478732.Natasha_Knight
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/natasha-knight
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2DWdlEu
NL Signup:https://natasha-knight.com

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Fallen Jester (Tin Gypsy 5) by Devney Perry-Review tour

Fallen Jester (Tin Gypsy 5) by Devney Perry-Review tour

 

 

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

Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3eJOmag

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 18, 2021

Leo Winter loves his life. He works when he needs money. He rides when he craves freedom. He frequents the local bar when he wants a good time. The Tin Gypsies might be a memory, but the bachelor life he lived with his motorcycle club still suits him fine. So when a one-night stand surprises him at a family barbecue and claims she’s pregnant with his child, he’s certain he’s died and gone to hell.

Cassandra Cline took one night off from her structured life. One. And now her wild fling with the local bad boy has turned her life sideways. Her dreams and academic career are circling the drain, and none of it would have happened if she’d stayed far, far away from Leo.

Except avoiding him is impossible, especially when she’s forced to move home to Clifton Forge, Montana. And he refuses to leave her side when a series of strange accidents put her and their baby at risk. But are they accidents? Or is she standing in the middle of a battlefield she doesn’t understand?

Her only allies are people she barely knows. And a man who has the potential to steal her heart.

If only he’d stop playing the fool.

•••••••••

REVIEW:FALLEN JESTER is the fifth instalment in Devney Perry’s contemporary, adult TIN GYPSY erotic, MC romance series focusing on the former members of the Tin Gypsy MC. This is thirty-two year old, automotive restorer Leo Winter, and twenty-four year old, graduate student Cassandra Cline’s story line. FALLEN JESTER can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary but for back story and cohesion, I recommend reading the series in order.

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

Told from dual first person perspectives (Cass and Leo) FALLEN JESTER follows in the wake of a one night stand between twenty-four year old Cassandra Cline and Leo Winter. Six weeks would pass wherein our heroine, along with Scarlett Marks (Noble Prince #4), had been abducted and held prisoner by Tucker Talbot and the Arrowhead Warriors MC, and in the ensuing time would discover she was pregnant with Leo’s child. Unable to accept the responsibilities of fatherhood, Leo pushes our heroine out of his life, due in part to immaturity and fear, a fear of failure and losing his freedom for a one-night stand. What ensues is the acrimonious but building relationship between Cass and Leo, and the potential fall-out as the enemy continues to focus on vengeance targeting our couple in their deadly games.

Thirty-two year old Leo Winter has yet to grow up; a party boy who is always looking for a good time, Leo barely remembers the woman that would call to his heart but it is Cass’s heart that will sustain the most damage as Leo continues to push her out of his life. Cassandra Cline is a strong-willed, determined young woman, and is willing to go it alone, and raise her child with or without Leo’s help. Leo struggles in the weeks and months as the birth date approaches but the reality of the situation will hit too close to home as Leo finds himself falling in love with the mother of his child.

The relationship between Leo and Cass begins as a one-night stand that quickly spirals out of control. Leo struggles to remember our story line heroine, and yet, he refuses to accept the possibility that he is the father of Cass’s child. Barely able to look after himself, Leo is the epitome of bad boy; a child-like attitude where fun and parties are more important than personal responsibilities including the biggest responsibility of them all. Believing he is unworthy of love, Leo reinforces the belief by continuously breaking the heart of the woman he loves. As Cass slowly begins to accept Leo into her life, Leo will find himself facing his demons, a demon that is about to destroy all progress he has made so far. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, energetic and dynamic secondary and supporting characters including all of the previous story line couples. We are introduced to Cass’s parents Dale and Claudia Cline, as well as Cass’s friend and former roommate Olive. Emmett Stone’s story line is next in Tin Queen.

FALLEN JESTER is a story of vengeance and betrayal; heart break and struggle; family, relationships, friendships and love. The premise is emotional and engaging; the romance is seductive and hot; the characters are temperamental, intense, broken yet healing. FALLEN JESTER sees another Tin Gypsy find love and a happily ever after.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

Devney is a USA Today bestselling author. Born and raised in Montana, she loves writing books set in her treasured home state. After working in the technology industry for nearly a decade, she abandoned conference calls and project schedules to enjoy a slower pace at home with her husband and two sons. Writing one book, let alone many, was not something she ever expected to do. But now that she’s discovered her true passion for writing romance, she has no plans to ever stop. Devney loves hearing from readers! Connect with her on social media.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/devneyperrybooks/
Amazon Author Page: https://amzn.to/2N1u9xz
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/devneyperry/
Website: https://devneyperry.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/devneyperry
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15854913.Devney_Perry
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/devneyperry/
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/devney-perry

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