Monthly Archives: August 2021

Rogue Wolf by Paige Tyler – a Review

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Rogue Wolf by Paige Tyler – a Review

 

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Description:
There’s been a wicked attraction between SWAT werewolf Trey Duncan and medical examiner Samantha Mills since the two met, but Trey’s never worked up the nerve to ask her out. So when Samantha says she wants to cash in the favor Trey owes her for a date, it seems like the perfect time to confess his true feelings. But the trouble with wolves is that they’re never far from danger, and this time Trey is going up against a monster the likes of which his Dallas SWAT team has never seen… This time it’s going to take everything Trey and Samantha have to crack the case and protect each other.

 

 

 

Review:

Rogue Wolf by Paige Tyler is the 12th book in her SWAT: Special Wolf Alpha Team series.  I have been a big fan of Paige Tyler’s books, as she always gives us wonderful, paranormal romance suspense stories, that are exciting, pulse pounding action filled, as well as great couples and hot alpha men (werewolves) that are part of the SWAT team.

Trey Duncan, our hero, is a member of the SWAT team and together with his team mates, they are trying to find a serial killer, who has strength equal to their werewolf ability.  Someone is killing men for body parts, and leaving the remaining bodies in various different forests.

Samantha Mills, our heroine, is an assistant medical examiner, and has been on the scene of all the murders.  Her and Trey are attracted to each other, but acts on their feelings, but in the middle of this investigation, Samantha makes the first move inviting Trey out.  During the period of the investigations, their relationship escalates, as they have great chemistry, and Trey realizes she is the ‘ONE’; but he does not want to pressure her, since she knows nothing of him and his team being werewolves.  Samantha knows she is falling hard for Trey, but she has also been gathering information regarding the SWAT team, and some of their amazing abilities, such as speedy healing, and other suspicious things.  Will Samantha find out what the SWAT team is, and will she out them?

Trey and his teammates were deeply involved in trying to find and stop this killer, who they suspect may be a supernatural.  They have come across this monster, with supernatural strength and ability, as well as attempting to suck out their life source; but they have always been able to fight off the murderer, who quickly disappears.   

What follows is an exciting, intense, suspenseful, action-packed adventure that will keep us glued to our seats, especially when Samantha is kidnapped, and surprising twists and revelations are revealed.  The wild last ¼ of the book had me holding my breath, as both Samantha and Trey’s life was in danger. 

Paige Tyler does it again with another intense, intriguing, exciting and sexy story. The romance between Trey and Samantha’s romance was steamy, as they were great together; especially when they each fought to save each other’s lives.  I love the wonderful characters Tyler has created, including Kat (the cat). Rogue Wolf is another fabulous addition to this series.  If you have not started this series, I suggest you do so, as it is a fun, exciting and sexy read and Paige Tyler is an author you need to be reading. 

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

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Aspen Crossroads by Janine Rosche – Review & Giveaway

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Aspen Crossroads by Janine Rosche – Review & Giveaway

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Description:
Few in the community of Whisper Canyon have actually met Jace Daring, a handsome recluse who lives at Aspen Crossroads, the farm at the edge of town. But that doesn’t stop the rumors about the multiple women who live with him. He must protect the truth–that his farm-to-table restaurant will provide new livelihoods for women rescued from human trafficking–or he risks the safety and futures of those relying on him. But he can’t do it alone.

Haven Haviland has always been everyone’s safe place to fall until one mistake closes her counseling practice and leaves her open to the town’s gossip. Trusting men has gotten her in trouble before. However, accepting Jace’s job offer to mentor the rescued women seems like the perfect way to right her wrongs.

When the mayor’s campaign to clean up Whisper Canyon targets Aspen Crossroads, the restaurant comes under fire, dangers from the women’s pasts are awakened, and Haven’s sins are exposed for all to see. Jace would sacrifice himself to save Haven and the women under his care, but his efforts might not be enough. And in the end, it might not be the women most in need of saving after all.

 

 

Review:

Aspen Crossroads by Janine Rosche is the first book in her new Whisper Canyon Romance series.  Haven Haviland has lived in Whisper Canyon with her family all her life, and until recently she had a counseling practice for town residents who needed help.  Haven made a mistake allowing herself to have a one-night affair with a client, who lied to her, and the town turned on her.  She learns of the renovating of Aspen Crossroads into a family restaurant, and meets the new owner.

Jace Daring, lived in Whisper Canyon, when he was a child, and returns to fix up Aspen Crossroads.  Jace works for a company that gives women a second chance at life, after being rescued from human trafficking.  The mayor (who is bad, and also the one who lied to Haven) is determined to stop the renovating of the new restaurant, telling the townspeople, they are prostitutes, and will hurt the town image.

Jace meets Haven and when he finds out she ran a counseling practice, he hires her to work for Aspen Crossroads, to offer help for the ladies who have suffered from their past.   Haven has a hard time getting the women to open up to her, but slowly she will earn their respect, but it will take a while to get past their resentments.  I did like the ladies who were rescued from the human trafficking, such as Sonny, Rosalie and Jillian (who was the most difficult), and Haven’s Rarity was great (look forward to her story soon).  In a short time, Jace and Haven begin to have feelings for each other, with them also having to deal with the nasty rumors that the town gossips, not to mention the evil Mayor.

What follows are some heart-wrenching stories, for the ladies, as well as for Haven, whose family was not respected, due to her mother’s past.  But I loved Haven’s sisters and brother, and can’t wait for their future stories.   Whisper Canyon is split down the middle, with many townsfolk listening to the mayor, not looking at the true sensitive issues; then there are the Haviland family, their friends, and the church who know the difference between right and wrong. Jace, Haven, the ladies, and the rest of the good guys turn the table to stop the mayor and bring a peaceful solution.  Janine Rosche wrote a heartwarming and tense story, that was very well written. I suggest you read Aspen Crossroads.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

Janine Rosche’s publisher,  is offering a paper copy of ASPEN CROSSROADS to ONE (1) 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.

NOTE: If you are having difficulty commenting after logging onto the site, please refresh the page (at the top of your computer).

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

3. Please follow Janine Rosche on Facebook.

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

5. LIKE The Reading Cafe on Twitter for an additional entry.

6. Please follow The Reading Cafe on Tumblr

7. Giveaway is open to  US only.

8. Giveaway runs from August 24th to 28th, 2021

 

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Cross and (Dark Kings 1-3) by Shantel Tessier-Review Tour

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Cross and (Dark Kings 1-3 by Shantel Tessier Review  & Excerpt Tour

CROSS
Dark Kings #3
by Shantel Tessier
Release Date: August 20, 2021
Genre: adult, contempOrary, erotic, dark, romance

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CROSS

Have you ever stood next to a fire and felt the heat of it on your skin? Stared into the flames and thought how amazing it would be to be that free? It changes direction with the wind, destroying everything in its wake.

That’s what she felt like.

Alexa was a wildfire that torched everything she touched, and I couldn’t wait to be consumed by her.

She was off-limits. Even though I promised to stay away, I couldn’t resist. She was the spark I had been missing in my life. The fire I craved. I knew from an early age I was destined to burn in hell, but she was born to walk through fire.

ALEXA
I was single-minded, focused, and independent. Just how my mother raised me. I didn’t have time for anything other than myself and work.

Funny how everything can change in an instant when you least expect it.

A King entered my life.

What was supposed to be one night ended up being too many to count. He was afraid that I’d see his darkness, but I couldn’t get enough of him.

After all, a fire burns the brightest in the dark of night. And it only takes one match to cause total devastation.

••••••

REVIEW:Book three in the Dark Kings series is here and Shantel Tessier sure didn’t pull any punches with this book. As always, I recommend reading the books in order of the series to get the full value of the story. While the books can be read as a standalone, I think you get more understanding and fun from the previous books than the little bit of backstory that comes with the current book. Also, a word of warning, this book may trigger some people, there is a lost pregnancy involved, for readers that may affect, tread carefully friends.

Cross and Alexa’s story is dramatic, 100%, I’m not sure if Tessier had plans to write it that way, but I think it was different from the previous two books in that sense. Their relationship is a hit right off the bat, a hook up that turns into an insta-lusty-love type of relationship. Their sexy scenes are hot hot hot, but the build of their relationship on an emotional level fell a little flat for me. There was this big thing that Grave didn’t want Cross with Alexa, then it was a big secret from everyone but Grave and then he found out, it just felt a little childish for the Kings to me. Nonetheless, Cross was a page turning, suspenseful, spicy read that I totally recommended to my best book friend. I can’t wait to see what Tessier does with Bones book, he’s been high on my list for reads since his arrival in Titan book one!

Reviewed by Sarah

Copies supplied for review

 

 

She slides in, and I make my way to the driver’s side. Starting it up, I look over at her. “Where to?” I meant it more as a “where do you live?” but what I wanted to say and the words that actually came out were two very different things.
She looks over at me. “Wherever you want to go.”
That’s an open invitation if I’ve ever heard one. Obviously, she doesn’t want me at her house, or she would have suggested that. “Kingdom?”I question, unable to keep my eyes from dropping to her legs as she runs her hands over her jeans. Her nails are kept short and painted black. She wears a silver banded ring on her right hand. It’s plain yet dainty at the same time.
“I don’t gamble,” she states.
My eyes meet hers. “Neither do I.”
What I have planned for her is much more intimate. I mean, if she’s into a crowd watching, then that’s fine too. I’m not shy.
She laughs, leaning her head back against the headrest, and smiles softly at me. Her green eyes drop to my jeans, and I refrain from groaning at the thoughts that run through my mind. My hand in her hair while she’s bent over the center console with her lips wrapped around my cock …“Kingdom it is.” Not wanting to waste another second, I take off, getting the hell out of here.
We don’t say much during the twenty-minute drive back to the Strip. I keep checking on her to make sure she hasn’t passed out, and every time, she’s looking out the window.
I pull up around the back of tower one, where the Kings and I have a private entrance. Parking the car, I help her out and up the fifteen stairs that lead to a set of black doors.
Her drunk eyes take in the white marble floor and black circle with the gold K in the middle when we enter the building. Lifting her head, she notices the mirrored ceiling and chandelier hanging in the entrance.
Nigel stands behind his black marble desk in the corner. Nigel is our right-hand man. He’s more of a father to us than our actual fathers ever were. Guess it didn’t take him and Titan very long to bury Kenneth. He looks up and smiles at us. “Good evening, Cross. Alexa. It’s good to see you again.” I’m not sure how he knows her other than maybe he met her at Titan’s wedding.
“You too, Nigel,” she tells him as I scan my key card for our private elevator. Only a King has access to it. Other than him, of course. It opens immediately, and we step inside. I have to refrain from ripping her clothes off right here and now. Just a few more minutes and she’s all mine.
It comes to a stop on the Royal level to the suite that the Kings share. But no one will be here tonight. Titan hasn’t stayed one night here since he married Emilee. Grave stays at his house with April, and Bones rarely sleeps. I’m sure he’s at Glass—one of the many businesses he owns that we all pretend we don’t know about.
Stepping into our suite, I turn to face her. “Would you like a drink?”
She places her hands on my chest, gripping my shirt. “I think I’ve had enough.”
My hands go to her hips, and I yank her to me. The thought crosses my mind that this is a mistake. That she’s off-limits to me. I try to think of my best friend and how it would affect him. “I made a promise not to touch you,” I rush out, hoping she pushes me away.
She surprises me by smiling, and it’s anything but innocent. Her pretty green eyes drop to my lips before returning to mine. “I can keep a secret.” Then her lips are on mine.


 

___________

TITAN
Dark Kings #1
by Shantel Tessier
Release: May 29 2020
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, dark, romance

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TITAN
I know I have a black soul. Bloodshed and danger are what I live for.
A King is supposed to rule his Kingdom using any means necessary to demand respect.
I’m not a weak man… A King kneels to no one.
I’ve only ever cared about one other person in my life, but the thing is, she never belonged to me. And before I could tell her how I felt, she left.
Now she’s returned, needing someone to save her.
Emilee York was always meant to be mine, and I’ll see to it that happens. I always get what I want, even if that means I have to take it.
And she’s no different. She’ll be my queen, one way or the other.

EMILEE
When I left Sin City behind me, I had no plans to return. I avoided everyone, even my friends, to stay in my bubble. I’ve always been the kind to pull away and run when things get difficult.
But one phone call changed everything, and I was racing back. If only I had known what was waiting for me.
Titan reappeared like a ghost haunting me.
One look and I knew he recognized me. I never forgot him or what we shared. Those feelings that no one else knew existed between us.
I ignored them back then, but now they are more intense than ever.

•••••••••

REVIEW:Titan is the first book in Tessier’s new Dark King series and details the story of Titan and Emilee. As a dark romance I was expecting a lot of angst, steamy scenes and heart pounding, pulsating chapter after chapter. Oh did this book deliver!

After the death of her father, Emilee returns home to Vegas, a place she didn’t want to remember. As soon as she hits the sandy weather of Nevada, her life takes a 180 and things start to spiral. On top of her father passing, Emilee now must worry about her mother who has been fighting cancer. Soon after she arrives, she learns that the little bit left to her family, including the home her mother is staying in is now in the hands of her father’s business partner. With the world closing in on her Emilee is at a loss of what to do and who to turn to for help. This leads her right back to the man who would rather her hang than help her.

For Titan, Emilee was an unattainable Goddess. Something he could look at and secretly want, even if he told the world he hated her. An obsession. So, when her world comes crumbling down around her, what better to do than swope in and save the day. Except, he’s Titan is no hero, he’s more like the evil King. And what does every King need? A Queen. Titan plans to make Emilee his Queen, but more than that, he wants to own her in every meaning possible.

Wow.

I’ve read Tessier before, and I have always enjoyed her books so very much. This one is no different. It’s dark and steamy, angsty and a little too much eeppp in some moments, but such a fantastic read. The only comment I must make is that I’m surprised how much of an impact Bones was on the main characters. For a supporting character Bones was a pretty big part of this book and the two main leads. In parts of the book, I think he would actually make a better fit for Emilee than Titan, however, I do hope Bones gets his own book someday. Nevertheless, I have goosebumps from this read and that is always a good thing!

__________

GRAVE
Dark Kings #2
by Shantel Tessier
Release Date: August 20, 2020
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, dark,romance

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

GRAVE
My life went to hell years ago, and I’ve had a death wish ever since then with fast cars, women, and drugs. They don’t call me Grave for nothing!But I do it because I need to feel something… anything. What’s life worth living for without the high?

And then I saw her!She’s too good for me, and I should stay away. But like an addict, I switch one drug for another, and I’ll be taking her to hell with me.

APRIL
I’m anything but sweet, despite what people think, so when he tells me I’m too good for him and I’m better off without him, I don’t listen.My life was simple before Grave stepped through that door, but who wants simple?

He makes me feel alive. It took one touch, and I became addicted!But therein lies the problem. Addiction is Grave’s middle name, and when he tells me he’s taking me to hell with him, I don’t know whether to take that as a threat or a promise!

•••••••

REVIEW:Grave by Shantel Tessier, book two in the Dark Kings series, broke my heart. I knew this book was going to hurt, I knew it going in and I still read it and loved it. Book two in the series can be read as a standalone like many of Tessier books, but for the backstory and plot it’s recommended to read the books in order.

First, get ready to cry, prepare yourselves for it, get your cuddle buddies and reading pillows ready friends. Grave and April’s story is going to break a little part of you, but don’t worry, you’ll be ok once you finish it. Lol

Grave has truly been through hell and back, losing his mother at a young age, dealing with the wrath of abusive father, and then his adult life leads him down a road of sex, drugs, and violence. Grave is lonely, sad and angry at the world, he fights to feel something, but it’s not the feeling he’s looking for. Grave needs a light to save him from his darkness and that comes in the form of tiny little April with her will of steel.

April is her own worst enemy at times. After dropping out of college after her mother passes to take care of her nutty baby brother, she has now landed herself taking care of their family store. A flower shop called Roses, and while this was not what she was planning on doing for the rest of her life, she can’t simply let the place crumble to dust. Things with her brother however are anything but easy, the kid is always getting himself in trouble and April is scared he’s going to end up on the wrong side of the law one day. The stress of life is slowly dragging her further and further down so when Grave struts his tattooed hot body into her store, their connection is intense and strong. Grave is a moth to a flame with April, he’s drawn to her in a way that he can’t help and is learning that he doesn’t want that feeling to go away.

Throughout the story the couple go through ups and downs, they learn new things about each other and as always they must learn to trust in each other for things to work. Love conquers all as the saying goes. There is so much emotion in this book, it’s hard to pack it all into one review, just read it friends! Grave and April are my favorite in the series so far, but I’ve always been a sucker for the underdog.

Copies supplied for review

Reviews by Sarah

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There With You (Adair Family 2) by Samantha Young-Review Tour

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There With You (Adair Family 2) by Samantha Young-Review Tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 23, 2021

For Regan Penhaligon, there’s no better place to run to than the exclusive Ardnoch Estate in the remote Scottish Highlands. Her impulsive behavior has finally caught up with her and Regan’s visit with her sister, Robyn, is an opportunity to hide from someone who has grown dangerously obsessed with her.

Determined to make amends for her mistakes, Regan plans to repair her relationship with Robyn by staying close. And when an offer of help comes from Thane Adair, Regan gratefully accepts.

Widower, Thane, needs a new nanny housekeeper for his two young children and when they bond with Regan Penhaligon, he offers her the job. But as the weeks pass and the complex American reveals who she really is, Thane struggles with his growing attraction to her.

Regan never expected to feel so intensely for Thane, but she can’t deny her passion for him or her love for his children. When someone from Thane’s past threatens his family, Regan wants to be his pillar of support. However, his continued inability to trust her might just destroy their chance at future happiness… and the person who drove Regan to Ardnoch might snuff out her chance for any future at all.

••••••

REVIEW:THERE WITH YOU is the second instalment in Samantha Young’s contemporary, adult ADAIR FAMILY erotic, romance series focusing on the Adair siblings. This is thirty-eight year old, architect and single father Thane Adair, and twenty-five year old nanny Regan Penhaligon’s story line. THERE WITH YOU can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary but for back story I recommend reading the series in order. Thane was first introduced in book one, and is the brother of Lachlan Adair; Regan is Robyn Penhaligon’s half sister (HERE WITH ME #1).

WARNING: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers. If you have not read book one, there may be spoilers in my review.

Told from first person perspectives (Regan) and third person (Thane) THERE WITH YOU follows in the wake of Regan Penhaligon’s arrival in Scotland months after the attack on her sister Robyn’s life. Robyn, believing Regan is shallow and inconsiderate, struggles with her sister’s arrival, not knowing the extent of Regan’s heart break and pain. Hoping to remain in Scotland for an extended period of time, Regan applies to work as a nanny for Robyn’s future brother in law, Thane Adair, the man with whom she will fall in love. What ensues is the slow building romance and relationship between Thane and Regan, and the potential fall-out as Regan’s returns, and Thane refuses to acknowledge the proverbial elephant in the room.

Thane Adair struggles with issues of trust as it pertains to our story line heroine. Having heard too many horror stories about his future sister in law’s half sister, Thane battles between head and heart but desperate for a nanny, Thane reluctantly hires our story line heroine, only to continue to struggle at every conceivable turn. Regan Penhaligon’s preconceived reputation as undependable and unreliable is destroying her relationship with not only her family but the man that she love but Regan’s past is about to demand her return, and with it threatens all hope for a future with Thane Adair.

The relationship between Thane and Regan begins acrimoniously as Thane believes Regan is unstable and undependable but his children love our story line heroine, and with that, Thane relents to hire the woman with whom he will fall in love . Regan is immediately attraction to Thane Adair but his back and forth, up and down, hot and cold attitude is heart breaking and sad, and with it Regan has fallen in love with a man who is often guarded, angry and cold. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Thane’s children Lewis and Eilidh; his siblings Lachlan, Brodan, Arrochar, and Arran; Regan’s half sister Robyn, and her parents Seth and Stacey; Robyn’s father Mac Galbraith; neighbour Callum McCulloch; yoga instructor Eredine Willows; and Regan’s ex Austin Vale.

THERE WITH YOU is a slow-burn, heart breaking and impassioned story of family and love. The premise is dramatic, intense and compelling; the romance is emotional and sensual; the characters are broken, tragic and flawed.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one HERE WITH ME

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Samantha Young is the New York Times,  USA Today  and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of adult contemporary romances, including the On Dublin Street series and Hero, as well as the New Adult duology Into the Deep and Out of the Shallows.  Every Little Thing, the second book in her new Hart’s Boardwalk series, will be published by Berkley in March 2017. Before turning to contemporary fiction, she wrote several young adult paranormal and fantasy series, including the amazon bestselling Tale of Lunarmorte trilogy. Samantha’s debut YA contemporary novel The Impossible Vastness of Us was published by Harlequin TEEN in ebook & hardback June 2017. Play On is an adult contemporary romance and the first in a brand new series set in Scotland. Villain is a companion novella to the New York Times bestselling romance HERO.

Samantha has been nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award 2012 for Best Author and Best Romance for On Dublin Street, Best Romance 2014 for Before Jamaica Lane, and Best Romance 2015 for Hero. On Dublin Street, a #1 bestseller in Germany, was the Bronze Award Winner in the LeserPreis German Readers Choice Awards for Best Romance 2013, Before Jamaica Lane the Gold Medal Winner for the LeserPreis German Readers Choice Awards for Best Romance 2014 and Echoes of Scotland Street the Bronze Medal Winner for the LeserPreis German Readers Choice Awards for Best Romance 2015.

Samantha is currently published in 30 countries and is a #1 international bestselling author.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

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The Highlander’s Pirate Lass by Heather McCollum – a Review

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The Highlander’s Pirate Lass by Heather McCollum – a Review

 

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Description
Beck Macquarie, captain of the Calypso and second brother to the Macquarie chief, can’t stop himself from helping out the less fortunate. So of course, when a beautiful woman frantically waves him down, begging for his help, he stays true to himself and rescues her. What he isn’t expecting is for her to go full pirate on him — exposing the sailor’s breeches under her skirts and commandeering his ship.  

When Eliza Wentworth learns her pirate family has been captured by the English, she’ll do anything to save them, even taking over an unsuspecting Scotsman’s shi. When he offers to help her after not apprehending her, she agrees. Besides, he is brawny, kind, and the perfect man to teach her about the pleasures that can be found in and out of his bed… Spending some time on shore with him won’t be too much of a hardship. Until she ultimately has to betray him and risk losing everything she didn’t know she wanted. 

 

 

Review:

The Highlander’s Pirate Lass by Heather McCollum is the 2nd book in her Brothers of Wolf Isle series. Reading the description did have me chuckling. A female pirate, and one that isn’t afraid to go after what she wants. It sounded like quite a ride. 

Eliza was brought up with seawater flowing through her veins. She loves the sea, and she absolutely adores her family. But it wasn’t always that way, her parents her brutally murdered by the pirate Jandeau!

Being rescued by a Privateer (A privateer is a private person or ship that engages in maritime warfare under a commission of war)  John Pritchert  gave Eliza a new family to love and care for, they continue to hunt Jandeau and rescue as many as they can from his clutches! So when she finds out that John has been taken and held by the British. Eliza will do whatever it takes to free them. 

Beck is brother to Adam Macquarie (Chief on Wolf Isle) second son and probably more of a gentleman than his brother. The curse of the Isle and his clan is still in force ….. So he’s left the isle to find love (all his clansmen have to find love to break the curse!) 

Chemistry is almost instant, but Eliza is wary, and Beck knows that it’s hopeless to fall for this fiery beauty!! She won’t give up the sea, so entertained her would just be a waste of time…..Spending so much time with the gorgeous captain is going to cause heartbreak for Eliza, but it’s her family that has to come first. 

A really great way to spend an afternoon, and it’s nothing less than what I’ve come to expect from this author. She brings whatever world we are in at the moment come to life. Very descriptive and beautifully written. 

This is the second book in the brothers of Wolf Isle Series. It’s not necessary to read book one in this series, but there are a few things that will make this book make a little more sense. 

So can Beck convince Eliza to give up the sea and her family? Can Eliza rescue her adoptive father John? and what will she do if she ever comes face to face with her hated enemy Jandeau? 

A highly enjoyable read. Plenty of action and adventure with enough romance to keep me happy. 

Reviewed by Julie

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

 

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Love in a Time of Hate by MatthewLangdon Cost-review

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Love in a Time of Hate by Matthew Langdon Cost-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 25, 2021

In Love in a Time of Hate, a young man from Maine fights for social equality in New Orleans after the Civil War while pursuing a serial killer, becoming enmeshed in voodoo, and falling in love.

“A Voodoo ritual?” Emmett stared dumbly at her.

A young man from Maine fights for social equality in New Orleans after the Civil War while pursuing a murderer of prostitutes, becoming enmeshed in voodoo, and falling in love.

“Education is the tool that makes us all equal, whether we are Black, white, Indian, woman, or man,” Manon said.
Much like Louisiana’s famous gumbo, Love in A Time of Hate, is a spicy dish of varied ingredients. The main theme is the struggle for social equality between the whites, Blacks, and Creoles, but flavor is added with the subplots of politics, voodoo, murder, love, and hate.

And then came the Rebel scream, a sound Emmett had not heard since near the end of the Great War.

New Orleans becomes a literal battleground as carpetbaggers, scalawags, Creoles, and recently freed slaves fight against the entrenched southern plantation notion of white superiority.

••••••

REVIEW:LOVE IN A TIME OF HATE by Matthew Langdon Cost is story of historical fiction focusing on the fight for social equality in the aftermath of the American Civil War.

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

NOTE: LOVE IN A TIME OF HATE features characters first introduced in the author’s 2015 release JOSHUA CHAMBERLAIN AND THE CIVIL WAR: AT EVERY HAZARD.

Told from third person perspective, covering the time period between 1866 to 1874, LOVE IN A TIME OF HATE follows former Union soldier Emmett Collins as he embarks on a career in the Confederate held state of Louisiana, to aid in Black suffrage, and the establishment of schools for recently freed slaves. In the wake of the Emancipation Proclamation, and the end of the US Civil War, the African American population continued to face racism, discrimination and monumental hardships throughout the American south, but no where more so than in the city of New Orleans-enter Emmett Collins, whose battle to help the impoverished former slaves resulted in threats to his life, and the people he loved. As Emmett worked tirelessly to establish himself, the white politicians, the wealthy, and the Knights of the White Camellia worked behind the scenes to take down the former slaves, and our hero, one battle at a time.

LOVE IN A TIME OF HATE is a story of historical fiction, based loosely in fact, with the inclusion of several important politicians of the day. 1870s Louisiana is awash in Voo-doo, prostitution, murder, serial rapes and killings; political power and white supremacy, and yet, somewhat mirrors life in the 21st century. A strong, thought-provoking and tragic reminder of what was, and what should never be again.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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River (RBMC: Elko, NV 2) by Scarlett Black-Review & Giveaway Tour

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RIVER (RBMC: Elko, NV 2) by Scarlett Black-Review & Giveaway Tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 17, 2021

River
I’m the VP of the Royal Bastards and I sell what every man wants—elite women at a fair price. When one of mine goes missing, I go on the hunt for her and come across another. Possession has never been a fetish of mine, but after one taste, I can’t let her go. But there’s something not right, clues that the woman I care for isn’t the woman I know at all.

Kora
I’ve been the subject of dark and sinful desires since I was a young girl. I’m no stranger to earning cash with my skills of seduction, and I’m good at it. I enjoy it. I never planned to be a kept woman, but after one run-in with River, I can’t say no. Now, my secrets may push away the man I love, because in my experience, sharing them will be the ammo for the shot to the heart.

*Contains graphic situations and triggers, not suitable for some readers.

•••••••

REVIEW: RIVER is the second instalment in Scarlett Black’s contemporary, adult ROYAL B*STARDS MC: ELKO NV erotic, MC romance series, a part of the multi-authored RBMC universe. This is RBMC: Elko NV club VP River, and Kora’s story line. RIVER can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

WARNING: Due to the nature of the story line premise there may be triggers for more sensitive readers. RIVER contains scenes of BDSM, bondage and D/s scenarios.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Kora and River) RIVER follows in the aftermath of Chloe’s disappearance from the club run Royal Fantasy Girls $ex club. Chloe is the $ex club headliner, and as such her disappearance is a big financial hit to the Royal B*stards MC. When the club discovers Chloe whereabouts at the Desert Scorpion MC, the Royal B*astards president Ice, and VP River, demand payment for damages, taking one of the Desert Scorpion’s girls in return. Enter Dominatrix Kora, and the woman with whom River will fall in love. What ensues is the acrimonious relationship between Kora and River, and the potential fall-out as Kora’s secrets come to bear, and with it, a price on her life.

Kora is a woman hiding in plain sight but a woman whose past is mired in secrets and lies.When the Scorpion’s president wants Kora to return, all h*ll break loose, leaving death and destruction in the wake of betrayal. River doesn’t do relationships, and spends most of his time at the Royal Fantasy Girls Club. Demanding Kora in payment for Chloe, River quickly discovers that his heart wants something his head refuses to accept.

The relationship between Kora and River is one of immediate attraction but if predicated upon a business exchange. All Kora wants is her freedom but the past refuse to let go, and she is currently tied to a contract with the RBMC. Falling for Kora was never in the picture but River’s jealousy and heart are threatened when Kora finds herself the target of betrayal and revenge. The $ex scenes are erotic and intense.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including the members of the RBMC: ELKO,NV club. We are reintroduced to club president Ice, and his wife/old lady Harley, as well as club Enforcer /tattooist Storm, and several women who work at the Royal Fantasy Girls Club.

RIVER is a story of power and control; betrayal and vengeance; acceptance, obedience, friendships and love. The premise is dark and gritty; the romance is seductive; the characters are raw and dynamic.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

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I live in a small town in Northern Nevada with my husband, our three kids and a couple of dogs. I love watching baseball, especially when my kids or hubby play. One day, I had random thoughts floating around in my head, opened my laptop and started writing without really knowing where the journey would take me. Here I am now, a first-time erotic MC genre author, who also works full time. I enjoy my busy life, the outdoors and shopping as much as possible!

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STRONGER THAN YOU KNOW by Lori Foster- review

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STRONGER THAN YOU KNOW (McKenzies of Ridge Trail 2) by Lori Foster-a review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 24, 2021

Their secrets run deep, but desire runs deeper…

Kennedy Brooks has spent years learning how to protect herself, and empowering other women to do the same. Still, there are some hazards that can’t be predicted. That includes Reyes McKenzie, who owns her local gym. Strong, capable, and watchful, he seems like the one man who might understand her past. For once, Kennedy is tempted to let her guard down—something she’s vowed never to do.

The moment petite, fiercely determined Kennedy walked into his gym, Reyes knew that she carried secrets. What he didn’t expect was that she could tell the same about him. When trouble tracks her down, she turns to Reyes, unleashing a maelstrom of protective instinct and mutual desire. But will her need for him end when the danger does, or will they take the ultimate risk—on each other?

•••••••

REVIEW: STRONGER THAN YOU KNOW is the second instalment in Lori Foster’s contemporary, adult MCKENZIES OF RIDGE TRAIL erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on the McKenzie family. This is motivational speaker Kennedy Brooks, and gym owner Reyes McKenzie’s story line. STRONGER THAN YOU KNOW can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary but I recommend reading book one NO HOLDING BACK for back story and cohesion

WARNING: Due to the nature of the storyline premise there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from several third person perspectives including Kennedy and Reyes, STRONGER THAN YOU KNOW follows in the wake of Kennedy coming home from her latest weekend speaking engagement to discover her apartment building on fire, and two men dressed in black looking for our story line heroine. A panicked call to Reyes McKenzie, finds Kennedy holed up with our story line hero, as he and his family begin an investigation into the who, how and why. When Kennedy reveals the truth about her past, and her friend in a similar situation, the McKenzie family take control, in an effort to protect the woman with whom Reyes is falling in love. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Reyes and Kennedy, and the potential fall-out as Kennedy’s past is determined to take back what doesn’t belong.

Reyes McKenzie has lusted after Kennedy since the first time they met but Reyes suspected that Kennedy was hiding a secret, a secret that when exposed would draw in the McKenzie clan, like no one else. The McKenzie family is a force unto themselves working behind the scenes, sometimes skirting the edge of the law, in an effort to save the young and vulnerable. Kennedy Brooks continues to struggle with demons from the past but uses her speaking engagements to warn others about the potential dangers that lurk around every corner.

The relationship between Kennedy and Reyes is one of immediate attraction but Reyes knows that Kennedy is in no position to engage in a sexual arrangement. Living together while the McKenzies work outside of the law, means up close and personal for our story line couple. The $ex scenes are passionate, intense and seductive.

We are introduced to the wonderful and impassioned McKenzie clan: father Parrish McKenzie, and his friend/assistant Bernard; Reyes’ brother Cade and his wife Sterling (No Holding Back 1); their sister Madison, police officer Crosby Albertson,and Kennedy’s friend Jodi Bentley. The requisite evil has many faces. Crosby and Madison’s story is next in WATCHING OVER YOU.

STRONGER THAN YOU KNOW is a story of family, friendships, relationships and love; of power and obsession, betrayal and vengeance. The character driven premise is strong and twisted; the romance is captivating and provocative; the characters are inspiring and spirited.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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