Monthly Archives: November 2021

Viktor (Immortals of New Orleans 11) by Kym Grosso-Review Tour

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Viktor (Immortals of New Orleans 11) by Kym Grosso-Review Tour

 

 

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 30, 2021.

Ancient vampire, Viktor Christianson, thrived for thousands of years without love. Enjoying the finer things in life, the international playboy embraced the essence of his immortal existence. But after he rescues a beautiful human from a bloodthirsty predator, he discovers she’s awakened the humanity he thought he’d long forgotten. Captivated by her unique energy, Viktor vows to protect her and soon realizes she’s the key to his future.

When art curator Waverly LaFleur first encounters the lethal stranger, her instinct is to run far, far away. Although she’s hidden her psychic visions for years, premonitions morph into reality, and she begins to attract dark entities she could never imagine existed. When the debonair vampire saves her life, she cannot deny temptation, spiraling into the seductive ancient’s world.

From the spicy-hot streets of Miami to New Orleans, Viktor and Waverly embark on a dangerous adventure. While seeking the truth about the evil that’s entered their lives, Viktor unearths the dark truth of his lineage, suspecting his nemesis is alive. He must choose wisely or become everything he’s always hated. If they survive, will he come to terms with his humanity and bond with a human or leave her forever, abandoning love?

•••••••

REVIEW:VIKTOR is the eleventh instalment in Kym Grosso’s contemporary adult IMMORTALS OF NEW ORLEANS erotic, paranormal romance series. This is ancient vampire Viktor Christianson, and museum curator Waverly LaFleur’s story line. VIKTOR can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous storyline is revealed where necessary but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and cohesion as the story line references a number of past events.

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

Told from dual third person perspectives (Viktor and Waverly) VIKTOR follows the building romance and relationship between ancient vampire Viktor Christianson, and museum curator Waverly LaFleur. When her best friend Teagan goes missing, Waverly started searching the local supernatural clubs where she would come face to face with Viktor Christianson but Waverly doesn’t do the paranormal like her roommate Teagan, including the man with whom she will fall in love. When an anonymous donor offers up a priceless piece of art for the museum’s fund raiser, Waverly, once again, comes face to with Viktor Christianson, and will quickly discover that the piece of art offered hides another artifact once thought long lost and buried. As Viktor and Waverly begin a search for the original owner, Viktor comes to realize that his past may have resurfaced, and has taken aim at our story line heroine. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Viktor and Waverly, and the potential fall-out as the underworld is struggling to hold onto one of its’ own.

Viktor Christianson has been alone most of his life having suffered horrendously at the hands of his vampire sire but meeting Waverly LaFleur stirs something deep within our story line hero, something Viktor never thought possible in the face of the abuse and evil he has endured. Waverly LaFleur is adamant about not getting involved in the supernatural community but her attraction to Viktor is stronger than her ability to stay uninvolved but as Waverly and Viktor begin their search for the who, what, and why, Waverly slowly falls for the man that will claim her body and soul.

The relationship between Viktor and Waverly is that of fated mates. Viktor never thought he would find his bond-mate but something about Waverly draws Viktor like a moth to a flame. Viktor is unable to walk away, and their palpable sexual attraction does not go unnoticed by Viktor’s supernatural family. Refusing to claim Waverly without her consent, Viktor bides his time, time that may be Viktor and Waverly’s ultimate betrayal. The $ex scene are intimate, erotic and intense.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, energetic and familiar secondary and supporting characters including Viktor’s brother Greyson; Viktor’s hybrid ‘child’ Rafe; as well as Quintus, Sebastian, and Ilsbeth, and Waverly’s former college friend Adam. The requisite evil has many faces.

VIKTOR is a complex and detailed story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, family, friendships, relationships and love. The premise is powerful and captivating; the romance is seductive and intense; the characters are energetic, dynamic, and edgy.

Previous reviews and reading order
Kade’s Dark Embrace
Luca’s Magic Embrace
Tristan’s Lyceum Wolves
Logan’s Acadian Wolves
Leopold’s Wicked Embrace
Dimitri
Jax
Jake
Quintus
Hunter
Christmas Embrace

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

FREE-> KADE’S DARK EMBRACE:  Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / Smashwords

LUCA’S MAGIC EMBRACE: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / Smashwords

TRISTAN’S LYCEUM WOLVES: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk Barnes and Noble/ KOBO / Smashwords

LOGAN’S ACADIAN WOLVES: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / Smashwords

LEOPOLD’S WICKED EMBRACE: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble /

DIMITRI: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

JAX: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /

JAKE:  Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / ibooks / Smashwords /

QUINTUS:Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Google Play

 ebook ONLY 99¢ –HUNTER: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /

Christmas Embrace: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo /

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Kym GrossoKym Grosso is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the award-winning paranormal romance series, The Immortals of New Orleans. She also has a new erotic romantic suspense series, Club Altura Romance. In addition to romance novels, Kym has written and published several articles about autism, and is passionate about autism advocacy. She is also a contributing essay author in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Raising Kids on the Spectrum.

Kym enjoys reading, tennis, zumba, traveling and spending time with her husband and children. New Orleans, with its rich culture, history and unique cuisine, is one of her favorite places to visit. Also, she loves traveling just about anywhere that has a beach or snow-covered mountains. On any given night, when not writing her own books, Kym can be found reading her Kindle, which is filled with hundreds of romances.

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A Very Naughty MC Christmas by KL Savage et el-review tour

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A Very Naughty MC Christmas Anthology by KL Savage, Cassandra Robbins et el-review tour

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 30, 2021

Tis the season for an MC Christmas. 10 steamy stories sure to make the naughty list this year.

••••••••

REVIEW:NOTE: A VERY NAUGHTY MC CHRISTMAS contains graphic language, text, and sexual scenarios that may not be suitable for all readers.

My review covers KL Savage, and Cassandra Robbins’ story line.

ELLE’S MISCHIEF (Ruthless Kings MC) by KL Savage

Told from several firsts person perspectives including Elle, Poodle, Reaper and Braveheart, ELLE’S MISCHIEF focuses on James ‘Poodle’ Winston’s fourteen year old daughter Ellie and her obsession with learning to drive a motorcycle. Convincing her father to teach her to drive, Ellie is surprised when Poodle finally relents, and allows Ellie to take his bike for a spin. With the approach of the Christmas holidays, Ellie, along with Reaper’s adopted daughter Maizey, want to shop for their MC uncles, so Maizey convinces a reluctant Ellie to drive to the store, taking Reaper’s motorcycle in the process but all does not go well, and Ellie and Maizey find themselves in a precarious position facing the wrath of the Ruthless Kings president.

The epilogue of ELLE’S MISCHIEF advances the series approximately four years wherein we see a possible love interest for Poodle’s now eighteen year old daughter Ellie, and the potential fall out as Ellie’s crush believes there is no way he is going to survive.

ELLE’S MISCHIEF is a quick read; a fast paced, holiday novella where many of the previous story line characters from KL Savage’s interconnected series are reunited for a Christmas celebration. The premise is entertaining; the $ex scenes are intimate and provocative; the characters are familiar, colorful and charismatic.

______

CLUBHOUSE CHRISTMAS (The Disciples 4.5) by Cassandra Robbins

Told from several first person perspective (Blade, Axel, Edge, Poet,Ryder) CLUBHOUSE CHRISTMAS focuses on several couples on Christmas morning as the Disciples MC embark on a Christmas celebration but all is not well when the Club wakes to the destruction of the clubhouse decorations.

The reader is up close and personal with club president Blade and his wife Eve McCormick, Axel and Antoinette Fontaine, Edge and Dolly Daniels, Poet and Charlie on Christmas morning as each couple prepares for the day, and Blade tries to gain control of a disastrous holiday celebration.

CLUBHOUSE CHRISTMAS is another quick read; fast paced holiday novella that revisits the previous story line couples, their growing and expanding families, and their struggles to move forward. The premise is engaging; the characters are familiar and edgy; the $ex scenes are provocative and raw. Ryder’s story is next.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS

L. Wilder: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorLeslieWilder

Jordan Marie: https://www.facebook.com/JordanMarieAuthor

Sandy Alvarez & Crystal Daniels: https://www.facebook.com/Authors.SandyAlvarez.CrystalDaniels

K.L. Savage: https://www.facebook.com/k.l.savage.author

Cassandra Robbins: https://www.facebook.com/cassandrafayerobbins

Lilly Atlas: https://www.facebook.com/lillyatlasbooks

Serena Akeroyd: https://www.facebook.com/SerenaAkeroyd

Verlene Landon: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorVerleneLandon

Teagan Brooks: https://www.facebook.com/teaganbrooksbooks

India R. Adams: https://www.facebook.com/IndiaRAdams

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Someone Perfect by Mary Balogh – a Review

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Someone Perfect by Mary Balogh – a Review

 

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Description:
As a young man, Justin Wiley was banished by his father for mysterious reasons, but now, his father is dead, and Justin has been Earl of Brandon for six years. A dark, dour man, he, nonetheless, takes it as his responsibility to care for his half-sister, Maria, when her mother dies. He travels to her home to fetch her back to the family seat at Everleigh Park.

Although she adored him, once, Maria now loathes Justin, and her friend, Lady Estelle Lamarr, can see, immediately, how his very name upsets her. When Justin arrives and invites Estelle and her brother to accompany Maria to Everleigh Park to help with her distress, she begrudgingly agrees, for Maria’s sake.

As family secrets unravel in Maria’s homecoming, Justin, too, uncovers his desire for a countess. And, while he may believe he’s found an obvious candidate in the beautiful 25-year-old Lady Estelle, she is most certain that they could never make a match…

 

 

 

 

Review:

Someone Perfect by Mary Balogh is the 9th book in her fantastic Westcott series. I usually do not read a lot of Historical romances, but I love the Westcott stories and have read every single book in this series.  Though we do not get to see too many of the Westcott family in this book, (they will make appearance nearer to the end), but Balogh once again gives us a fantastic slow burn romance. 

Justin Wiley, our hero, became the Earl of Brandon, 6 years ago, upon his father’s death; after having been banned from his home years ago, he sent his father’s widow and his half-sister (Maria) to live in another one of their estates.  Upon the death of Maria’s mother, Justin feels as her guardian, it is his responsibility to bring his sister back home to Everleigh Park estate.  Maria currently hates Justin, especially since he sent them away 6 years ago; but she has accepted that she must return to the family estate in Everleigh.

Lady Estelle Lamarr, our heroine, lives at nearby estate with her twin brother, Bertrand, with each being close friends with Maria.  Knowing that his sister may need some familiar friends to help her adjust, Justin asks Estelle and Bertrand to come to his home for a few weeks to help acclimate Maria to her new home.  Justin, trying to bring the family together, invites relatives to their estate to get to know Maria. Will Maria open up to Justin and all the relatives she hardly knew?

Estelle and Bertrand having reconciled a few years ago with their Marquess father, after he married Viola, one of the Westcott matriarchs’, with both being friendly with many of the Westcotts. They both decide to accept the invitation, though they feel Justin is somewhat dark and dour; but their concern is for Maria.

What follows is a wonderful story with realtives from both sides of the family, spending time with Maria, including the gossip and rumors of that past.  At first, Maria resents Justin, thinking that he was banned because he stole her mothers jewelry, which she will learn was a lie by her mother; as much as she loved her mother, Maria learns from the elders many truths, and beginning to realize that she still loves Justin.  While all the many family members enjoy their stay at Everleigh, Estelle spends time with Justin to learn about his hardship when his father banned him.  Slowly, they become closer, but though she begins to see nicer side to him, Estelle is not interested in getting married. As truths are revealed, Estelle begins to have strong feelings for this new Justin.   Will Justin be able to convince Estelle to become his Countess?

Someone Perfect was a great slow build romance that with many revelations, bringing together an unlikely couple to find love and happiness.  Mary Balogh gives us some wonderful new secondary characters, including Maria, Bertrand, and all the relatives who came to meet Maria.  Though it was off to a terrible start, I ended up loving Estelle and Justin together.  I can’t say enough about Mary Balogh’s writing, as she has another winner in Someone Perfect. If you enjoy regency romance with great couples and secondary characters, you should be reading Someone Perfect; which was another fabulous fun heartwarming story.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

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Shot Across the Bow by Julie Ann Walker-Review Excerpt & Giveaway

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Shot Across the Bow (Deep Six 5) by Julie Ann Walker-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

 

SHOT ACROSS THE BOW
Deep Six #5
by Julie Ann Walker
Release Date: November 29, 2021
Genre: adult, contemporary, romantic suspense

 

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 29, 2021

The former Navy SEALs of Deep Six Salvage thought they could retire to the sea and hunt for treasures of the deep, but when trouble comes to visit, there’ll be hell to pay.

Former Navy SEAL Spiro “Romeo” Delgado is six-plus feet of high-octane charm, and he has two hard and fast rules. One, always come to the rescue of those in need. And two, never give up his fast and furious bachelor ways. But when Mia Ennis joins Deep Six Salvage on the hunt for the Santa Cristina, her mesmerizing blend of brains, beauty, and bravery makes him question everything he thought he wanted in life.

Mia’s traumatic past has taught her to keep everyone she meets at arm’s length. But Romeo, with that body that is forever tensed for action and that dark gaze that tracks her every move, makes her feel safe in a way she never expected. Yet the secret she carries compels her to keep her distance—even as the past comes back to haunt them.

A harrowing plane crash ends with Romeo and Mia marooned on a desert island. When a boatful of men bent on murder drop anchor, Mia discovers her only hope for survival depends on her letting her guard down around Romeo. But surrendering to the passion she feels for him might be the most dangerous thing of all…

•••••••

REVIEW:SHOT ACROSS THE BOW is the fifth instalment in Julie Ann Walker’s contemporary, adult DEEP SIX romantic suspense series focusing on a group of former US Navy SEALs who own and operate a marine salvage business-Deep Six Salvage. This is former Navy SEAL Spiro ‘Romeo’ Delgado, and marine archeologist Mia Ennis’s story line. SHOT ACROSS THE BOW can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. The DEEP SIX series is a spinoff from Julie Ann’s BLACK KNIGHTS INC series. Romeo and Mia’s story started in book four DEEPER THAN THE OCEAN.

SOME BACKGROUND: The DEEP SIX series follows six former military or special ops agents who, upon retirement, set up their own business running secret missions behind the scenes. Searching for the wreck of the Santa Cristina near Wayfarer Island, the Deep Six team continues to encounter terrorists, pirates and drug runners on their hunt for sunken treasure.

Told from several third person perspectives including Romeo and Mia, Doc and Cami, SHOT ACROSS THE BOW follows the Deep Six team as they continue their search for a sunken treasure off Wayfarer Island but three members of the team-Romeo, Mia and Doc-along with property attorney Cami D’Angelo find themselves stranded on a small, remote island when an explosion sends their plane into the ocean, an explosion that may have targeted one of the people on board. As the foursome set about making a temporary shelter, past histories reveal startling revelations wherein anyone could have been in the direct line of fire. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Romeo and Mia, and the potential fall-out as the foursome find themselves facing down more than one gunmen when the true target is revealed.

Meanwhile, Dalton ‘Doc’ Simmons finds himself in an acrimonious relationship with the team’s property attorney Cami D’Angelo, a relationship fraught with palpable sexual attraction disguised by animosity, fueled by circumstance.

The relationship between Mia and Romeo is one of immediate attraction but Mia’s past refuses to let go, controlling all of her actions going forward. Believing she is not worthy of love, Mia is constantly pulling away from the man with whom she will fall in love, a man who has made it clear, he too wants nothing permanent going forward.Stranded together, Mia and Romeo find themselves acting on their mutual attraction, an attraction that is quickly crossing the line from friendship to love. The lone $ex scene is passionate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

The secondary and supporting characters include Mason McCarthy and Alexandra Merriweather; LT Anderson and Olivia, Dalton ‘Doc’ Simmons, attorney Cami D’Angelo, as well as Mia’s mother Jane Ennis, and her cousin Carter. Doc and Cami’s story line is next in DEAD IN THE WATER.

SHOT ACROSS THE BOW is a story of betrayal and vengeance, greed and jealousy, dysfunctional family dyanamics, friendships, relationships, sacrifice and love.The character driven premise is edgy and compelling but the guilty party is revealed early on, therefore the intrigue and suspense is limited; the characters are animated and dynamic; the romance is compelling and intimate.

The DEEP SIX series is an imaginative, detailed and impassioned series that reveals the destructive nature of greed and power across all walks of life.

Reading Order and previous reviews
Hell or High Water
Devil and the Deep
Ride the Tide
Deeper Than the Ocean

Copy supplied by Netalley

Reviewed by Sandy

 

 

He noticed the sand had turned cool beneath his bare feet as he led her toward the western tip of the island. For a long time, he stayed as silent as she did. Listening to the waves hiss against the shoreline. Enjoying the gentle warmth of the evening breeze as it teased across his skin. Sneaking glances at her pretty profile and fantasizing about running his finger from the slope of her smooth forehead down to her button nose and ending under her stubborn little chin.
Eventually, though, he couldn’t stand her silence any longer. “You’re being awfully quiet this evening.” He realized what he’d said, and rephrased. “I mean, quieter than usual. What’s on your mind?”
She tentatively met his searching gaze. For a moment, he thought she wouldn’t answer. Then, she did. And when she did, the simple truth of her words, and the way she said them without ego or artifice, hit him like a grenade from a rocket launcher. “The answer to that question is the same as it’s been for the last couple of months. You. You’re what’s on my mind. It’s always you.”
“My god, Mia.” His voice sounded like it’d been raked over rocks on the way out of his mouth. “You have no idea—”
He stopped there, because he wasn’t sure what he even wanted to say. That she had no idea what she did to him? That she had no idea how she made him feel? That she had no idea that it was taking the last bit of his willpower not to pull her to him so he could taste the mouth those sweet words came out of?
She placed a gentle hand in the center of his chest, and his heart thudded up to meet her touch. “Are we about to become lovers?” Her expression seemed pensive.
When the wind whipped some of her hair across her face, he did something he’d been longing to do since the day they met. He brushed the wavy lock behind the delicate shell of her ear, letting the strands slip slowly through his fingertips.
“I want that,” he admitted in a voice so low it was barely more than a growl. “Is that what you want?”
His heart tripped over itself when something that looked very much like indecision moved behind her eyes.
“Yes,” she finally answered, and he realized his shoulders had tensed, because they suddenly relaxed. “But…” She frowned. “Can you promise, no matter what, we’ll stay friends? I don’t think I could stand it if—”
He silenced her by placing a finger over her lips. He’d have rather used his mouth for the job, but once he started kissing her, he wouldn’t be able to stop. And right then she needed his words, not his tongue.
“I will never stop being your friend, cariña,” he swore to her.
She looked relieved. But it only lasted a second before her brow beetled again.
He used her troubled expression as an excuse to run his finger over her forehead, down her pert nose, and beneath her stubborn chin. There, he stopped, tilting her face up so that she was forced to hold his gaze. “What is it?” he asked quietly. “Tell me.”
“I haven’t…” She rolled in her lips when the words seemed to get stuck in the back of her throat. After a second, she tried again. “I haven’t had as many lovers as you have. I might not be what—”
He didn’t let her finish. He didn’t need to. “Mia, my sweet, sexy woman, believe me when I say that’s nothing you have to worry about.”
She nodded. But he could tell she was still nervous.
Who could blame her? Doc had accused him of staring at her like he’d like to eat her whole. What small, delicate creature wouldn’t be nervous when she found herself caught in the sights of a much bigger, much hungrier predator?
But he wasn’t going to eat Mia in one giant gulp. Mia wasn’t a fast-food french fry. She was a seven-course meal from a Michelin-starred restaurant.
He was going to eat her slowly, lick by lick. And bite by delicious bite.
But first…
“Breathe, cariña.” He tucked another unruly strand of hair behind her ear because he couldn’t get enough of touching her. “We aren’t going to start now.”
Not that he didn’t want to. He’d have liked it if they never stopped after that first kiss. But she was all up in her head, and that’s the last place he wanted her. When he made his move, and he would make his move, he wanted her totally in her body.
“Let’s sit down.” He gestured to a small log that had washed up on the beach. It was bare of bark and made smooth by its time at sea. “Will you read to me?”
When she nodded, he led her to the driftwood. After sinking down beside her, he let out a contented sigh when she unzipped her purse, took out the book, and began to read.
Her husky voice drifted in the salty evening air, sounding like pure seduction. And the blush on her cheeks was a soft, delicate pink that matched the sunset-tinged clouds.
It was an odd feeling to know that, despite the loss of his plane, despite their precarious predicament, he’d never been happier than he was right then. Sitting next to her. His thigh touching her thigh. The waning light bathing them both. And the anticipation of what was to come humming softly in the air around them.
And what happens after? the voice in the back of his head asked.
He wished the sonofabitch had a face so he could plant his fist in it. The voice had never cared about after before, so why was it talking about after now?
After doesn’t matter, he assured the voice and himself. After we’ll be friends, just like I promised. And in the meantime…
She would be his. And that would be enough.
He would make sure it was enough.

 

FOLLOW Julie: Facebook / Goodreads / Website / Twitter

Julie Ann Walker is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of award-winning romantic suspense. She has won the Book Buyers Best Award, been nominated for the National Readers Choice Award, the Australian Romance Reader Awards, and the Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA award. Her latest release was named a Top Ten Romance of 2014 by Booklist. Her books have been described as “alpha, edgy, and downright hot.” Most days you can find her on her bicycle along the lake shore in Chicago or blasting away at her keyboard, trying to wrangle her capricious imagination into submission.

Be sure to sign up for Julie’s occasional newsletter at: http://julieannwalker.com

Julie Ann Walker is graciously offering an ebook copy of SHOT ACROSS THE BOW 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.

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9. Giveaway runs from November 29-December 3, 2021

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A Swift and Savage Tide by Chloe Neill – a Review

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A Swift and Savage Tide by Chloe Neill – a Review

 

Amazon / B&N / Kobo / Google Play / Apple / BAM / Book Depository

 

Description:
Captain Kit Brightling is Aligned to the magic of the sea, which makes her an invaluable asset to the Saxon Isles and its monarch, Queen Charlotte. The Isles and its allies will need every advantage they can get: Gerard Rousseau, the former Gallic emperor and scourge of the Continent, has escaped his island prison to renew his quest for control of the Continent.

Gerard has no qualms about using dangerous magic to support his ambitions, so Kit and the crew of her ship, the Diana, are the natural choice to find him—and help stop him. Sparks fly when Kit’s path unexpectedly crosses with that of the dashing and handsome Rian Grant, Viscount Queenscliffe, who’s working undercover on the Continent in his own efforts to stop Gerard. But he’s not the only person Kit is surprised to see. An old enemy has arisen, and the power he’ll wield on Gerard’s behalf is beautiful and terrible. Sparks will fly and sails will flutter as Kit and crew are cast onto the seas of adventure to fight for queen and country.

 

 

 

Review:

A Swift and Savage Tide by Chloe Neill is the 2nd book in her A Captain Kit Brightling Novel seafaring fantasy series. I loved the first book in this series, and happy to say this one was just as much fun, exciting and enjoyable.  Refresher: Kit Brightling, our heroine, is one of the few female captains for the Queen’s fleet, having gained respect from the Queen, not to mention her fantastic loyal crew.  She is a strong protagonist, who has a magical affinity to the sea, and her ship, Diana, is a small, but also the fastest ship.  Having been successful in defeating the emperor in the last book, Kit and the Queen’s team are appalled to learn the emperor has escaped.  

Colonel Rian Grant, our hero, who is a Viscount, and a successful former soldier’ he is also part of the team called by the Queen. The relationship between Kit and Grant escalated into a slow burn romance in the last book, but Kit is only concentrating in finding the emperor.  She and her crew discover the old ship belonging to the emperor, and before she can get back to the ship, soldiers capture her and one of her crew.  In the prison, Kit spies on a man who uses powerful magic to kill someone, and realizes the man was supposed dead, and now is the commander for the emperor.  Luckily, Grant is working undercover, and manages to help her escape.

Kit is an amazing heroine, especially as we watch when she uses her ability to use the sea (current) to increase the speed of the ship to escape the attacks from a much larger ship.  The Queen’s team meet to plan to find Le Boucher, the man supposed dead, and ships are sent out, with the Diana leaving first to gather information. There were so many exciting amazing adventures, which we watch them in the water with sea dragons, marooned on an island, and captured by pirates. 

Kit will also begin to learn more about her ability to use magic, along with her Alignment.  I loved the crew of the Diana, who were such an awesome team, as well as a fun crew.  Grant is also an honorary member of the Diana team, not to mention his falling in love with Kit.  When he proposes to her, she is shocked and scared, loving the life she lives now.  I do love Kit and Grant together.  Will Kit give into her feelings for Grant or walk away?

What follows is a wonderful exciting tense adventure, where Kit and Grant work together to find Doucette (Le Boucher), as well as Kit using some of her learned magic to fight. A Swift and Savage Tide was another wonderful addition to this magical world, filled with two great heroes, fabulous secondary characters, exciting adventures, seafaring escapades, pirates, and a budding romance. This does end with some unresolved issues, which will continue in the next book. I for one look forward to the next book in this series, which is so very well written by Chloe Neill.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

 

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Love and Let Bark by Alanna Martin – Review & Excerpt

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Love and Let Bark by Alanna Martin – Review & Excerpt

 

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Description:
It’s up to two rescue husky puppies to convince their owners it’s never too late for a second leash on love.

When Nate Porter left Helen, Alaska, to become a firefighter with the Forest Service, he claimed it was because he craved adventure. The truth was, he couldn’t stand to hang around, pining for a girl the town’s century-old feud meant he could never have. But Nate got over Lydia Lipin years ago, or so he thought until he learns that an old rival has come sniffing around. The solution—a trip home with his rescue puppies to prove to himself he completely extinguished that old flame.

Lydia Lipin has always been satisfied being the “good” Lipin daughter—dutiful, practical, and always putting others before herself. But that role begins to chafe as Nate’s return ignites old memories. No one in town knew about their secret friendship or those forbidden kisses they stole the summer after graduation. Suddenly, Nate and his puppies are everywhere, and sparks are flying.

When Nate realizes he never got over Lydia, he’ll risk everything for a second chance. But Lydia’s not a risk-taker, and she has to make a choice—play it safe and pretend their summer fling was just puppy love, or step out of the family shadow and unleash her heart.

 

 

Review:

Love and Let Bark by Alanna Martin is the third book and final book in her wonderful Hearts of Alaska series.   This series takes place in Helen, Alaska and the background of this series is a horrible feud between the Lipin and Porter families that has lasted many years.   In book 1, Taylor (Lipin) and Josh (Porter) fell in love despite the feuding families; in book 2 Kelsey (Porter) and Ian find each other.   In Love and Let Bark, the story revolves around Lydia Lipin and Nathan Porter.  I will say I loved all the stories, but this was a wonderful romance.

Lydia Lipin runs the family B&B, and is usually the one to sacrifice her own life, to keep things peaceful; especially with her sister Taylor’s engagement to Josh, and goes out of her way to protect her sister from the meddling from both families.  Years ago, Lydia had a secret friendship with Nate Porter, and when she went away to college, they both decided they could not continue to date secretly due to the feud, and Nate left town.  To her shock, she runs into Nate and his adorable husky puppies, as he has returned home unable to use his arm from a serious accident. 

Nate has a successful career as a firefighter with the Forest Service, and when he learns that a former boyfriend of Lydia has also returned, Nate decides to renew his friendship with Lydia.   Nate has never forgotten Lydia, and when he runs into her, the feelings he has not been able to forget reignite.  Can Nate convince Lydia to give him a second chance?

In a short time, both Lydia and Nate find their feelings for each other reemerge, and the chemistry between them intensifies; will they both put themselves first this time.  I loved both of the husky puppies, who were so much fun and adorable.  I also liked Lydia’s cat Merlot, who is more independent.  The relationship between Lydia and Taylor (sisters) was wonderful, as their bond was strong. 

What follows is a fun and sexy romance between Lydia and Nate, and the adorable huskies, who made this story even better.  Just when we realize that they have fallen hard for each other, an argument between Nate and Cody will anger Lydia, and we pray they can reconcile and take their relationship to the next step, despite all the family feuds. 

Love and Let Bark was a wonderful sweet romance, great couple, two fantastic puppies, terrific friends and sisters (Taylor & Kelsey), despite the family feud.   Alanna Martin once again gives us a wonderful well written story. I suggest you read this series. 

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

LOVE AND LET BARK by Alanna Martin
Berkley Mass Market Original | On sale November 30, 2021

                                 Excerpt

“I’ve got a guest checking in who says he was a friend of yours, and he asked if you were around?” Shawn sounded uncertain, and he kept his voice low, suggesting whoever this friend was, he might still be hanging around the lobby.

Theresa made a disapproving face. “You’re in a meeting. It’s not appropriate for the staff to be bothering you if it’s not an emergency.”

Shawn, who was on speaker, likely heard the comment, and Lydia gritted her teeth. “Did he leave a name?” she asked, ignoring her grandmother. Damn it, this was her hotel now. She’d run it how she liked, and she was meeting with family, not a client or a guest. Which Shawn knew.

Shawn also knew that whenever Theresa Lipin stormed into the hotel, searching for one or the other of her granddaughters, Lydia hung an invisible “Please Disturb” sign on her door.

Shawn lowered his voice further, but some excitement crept in. “It’s Cody Miller. Isn’t he the Hitched guy?”

Lydia froze for a second as her brain processed this information. Cody Miller, friend, and Hitched were not three things that were meant to go together. Yes, she’d been friends with Cody in school. More than friends at times, actually. And yes, Cody was the guy who’d built Hitched-a travel and ride-share app. But super-wealthy, tech darling Cody and friend Cody had always been two different people in Lydia’s mind, even though logically she understood that they were one and the same. Probably it had something to do with the fact that she hadn’t seen Cody since before college, and they’d lost touch completely soon after.

So how was it that Cody was in her hotel and asking after her? Cody might be from Helen, but the town was not the sort of location that was likely to draw tech magnates. The only explanation that made sense was that Cody was visiting family, but Lydia could have sworn his family no longer lived here.

Regardless, Cody was here, he was an old friend, and perhaps just as importantly, he was an ideal distraction.

“I’ll be right out,” Lydia told Shawn, and she ended the call.

“Hitched?” her grandmother asked. “That’s an app, correct?”

Lydia was only mildly surprised that Theresa was familiar with the app. Her grandmother might dislike most technology, but she wasn’t precisely a Luddite. She simply preferred face-to-face interactions. It was easier to turn a critical eye on someone that way.

“Yes.” Lydia stood, slipping her phone in her back pocket. Most days she tried to dress in a style that Taylor referred to as Alaskan professional, a snarkism that proved you could take the sister out of L.A. but you couldn’t take the L.A. entirely out of the sister. But today was a Friday, and Lydia hadn’t dressed to impress-jeans and a simple cowl-necked sweater would have to do for meeting a billionaire. After all, tech darlings got away with wearing whatever they wanted, so why not her? Lydia had never seen a magazine or news photo of Cody wearing anything other than jeans.

“Cody is the boy you went to your prom with, isn’t he?” her grandmother continued.

That was much more surprising than Theresa knowing what Hitched was. But then, she and Cody had been an on-again, off-again thing for years. “Yes.”

Theresa nodded thoughtfully, the savage anti-wedding beast soothed, her invitation forgotten about on Lydia’s desk. “He was a nice boy. Smart.”

Cody had been smart, no doubt. He’d beaten out Lydia for valedictorian. Yet Lydia assumed her grandmother’s praise had more to do with Cody’s family being firmly pro-Lipin in the feud.

“Rich now, too, I’m guessing,” Theresa said. “Interesting that he came by to see you.”

It was interesting, but that was Lydia’s cue to make a hasty retreat for the lobby. The next sentence out of her grandmother’s mouth would likely involve the state of Lydia’s ovaries. Her grandmother had been determined to get Lydia married to the right sort of guy-that was, one of her choosing-for years. While Theresa and the rest of the family might not approve of Taylor’s choice of husband, her younger sister getting married had only made the nonsense Lydia had to deal with worse.

Late January was not a typical time for people to visit Helen, although true outdoor recreation enthusiasts were never deterred by the weather or lack of sunlight. As such, the hotel was one-quarter booked, but that didn’t mean corners had been cut. Flames crackled happily in the oversize fireplace, casting flickering light over the rustic wood decor, and the air smelled faintly of pine thanks to the scented candles lit at the reception desk. The inn’s complimentary homemade cookies and coffee sat out near the glass doors that overlooked the patio. It was almost time for Taylor to bring out the evening wine, which meant Lydia had to shake their grandmother soon. Cody had distracted her, but for how long?

Speaking of Cody, it took Lydia a second to recognize him sitting in one of the armchairs by the fire. For some reason, she’d expected him to be surrounded by an entourage, like a rock star, but he sat by himself, playing with his phone in one hand and holding a peanut butter cookie in the other. He looked totally at home and was dressed to Taylor’s exacting Alaskan professional standards-rugged khaki pants, thick sweater, and durable boots. Lydia suspected those clothing items were made by a brand that the average Helen resident couldn’t afford, but for the first time, her brain was able to reconcile the two Codys it carried around.

He jumped up as she strode over to him. “Lydia! It’s so good to see you.” Cody pulled her into a hug that she hadn’t been anticipating, and she had to course correct before smacking her nose into his shoulder.

Well, that was unexpected, but they had been close during school. Lydia decided to shrug it off and follow his lead. “It’s good to see you too.”

Cody beamed at her, holding her hands while he assessed her. “You look fantastic. Haven’t changed a bit.”

 

 

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Highland Prodigy by Willa Blair-a review

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Highland Prodigy (Highland Talents Heritage 1) by Willa Blair-a review

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 16, 2021.

Jamie Lathan is a formidable warrior, yet his life depends not only on his legendary prowess with a sword, but on keeping a dangerous secret. Like his mother, Jamie wields the power of healing magic. From childhood, he knew that those skills, often feared in a woman, would be condemned outright in a man. Discovery could mean imprisonment or death, but Jamie soon learns that denying his compulsion to heal is to deny the very core of himself.

Aftyn Keith desperately tries to fill the role of Healer after her mother dies unexpectedly. Still an apprentice, ill-prepared and hampered by her illegitimate birth, Aftyn knows that her best may not be enough to keep her place as a useful member of the clan. When a handsome Lathan warrior with healing skills far beyond her ken arrives and succeeds in saving his gravely injured kinsman, she begs him to teach her.

Jamie risks everything in choosing to trust Aftyn. But when she unwittingly betrays him, Aftyn is faced with a decision that may gain Jamie’s freedom, but cost her the only home that she has ever known. In the face of her growing feelings for Jamie, she knows that either decision will leave her heart broken beyond any Healer’s mending.

•••••••••

REVIEW: This made for such a refreshing read after reading so many historical romances that all do the same thing….

Jamie might be a great swordsman and warrior, but he has a secret that if found out about will certainly end his life!He can heal the sick and wounded, and in those days it really was a woman’s job. But that’s not the issue, the problem is that he heals them with his hands!

Aftyn is a healer, but not a great one, her mother was so much better at it. But sadly she died, and Aftyn is left to fill the role. She has her mother’s journal to read and follow, but most of it is written in a way that Aftyn doesn’t understand! She feels like she’s going to fail, and be a useless healer.That is until she meets a stranger that knows how to heal! She needs his help and she needs it fast!

Jamie and Aftyn soon become each other’s confidantes, but can Jamie really trust her with his secret?And when Jamie is betrayed by Aftyn (but it was an accident) can she regain his trust?

Apparently this is the next generation of healers (Highland Talents) and I have to admit I’ve not read any of the previous books. And I don’t think it matters really, although I’m now interested in reading how the other series fares against this one.It’s the start of a new series, and one I’m going to be keeping an eye out for.

The lives of the chat came alive within this book, you could easily imagine the rolling hills and the hard life in which they lived. The interaction between Jamie and Aftyn was good, and as an added bonus they’d met each other as children (and that i thought was a nice touch)

For anyone who likes a historical romance, I’d happily recommend this one.

? Reviewed by Julie

Copy supplied for review

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The Christmas Project by Christi Barth – a Review

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The Christmas Project by Christi Barth – a Review

 

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

Description:
Can they forgive the past and pull off a Christmas miracle?

Mariana Vasquez has always adored the historic waterfront Brampton Mansion, but the beloved building has succumbed to years of neglect. When Baltimore City inherits it, there’s only one chance to keep it from being demolished. Mariana plans to earn the mansion a second chance and the money to pay for its upkeep with a designer Christmas showcase.

A mix-up on Scott Ashford’s last renovation job has shaken his confidence and harmed his business. He needs a fresh project and great publicity to caulk over his disgrace. Donating his expertise to save a historic property sounds perfect…except the opportunity is dangled by an old friend. Well, ex-friend, since he abandoned her ten years ago…

Mariana has too much pride to ask Scott to return to Baltimore for her, but she’s desperate enough to ask him to come back to save the mansion. There’s barely time to finish all the restorations, so Mariana’s sure she won’t have any time to fall for Scott again. But maybe the mansion isn’t the only thing that deserves a second chance this Christmas…

 

 

 

Review:

The Christmas Project by Christi Barth is another one of her wonderful standalone romances. Mariana Vasquez, our heroine, lives in Baltimore, Maryland, and is currently in charge of restoring the historic Brampton Mansion.  The mansion has fallen apart over the years, and Mariana is determined to give the mansion a second chance to bring it back to what it once was; using top designers to fix the mansion before Christmas to have a showcase.  But just when only a few weeks are left, one of the designers is injured falling through the steps, unable to return to the mansion.  Mariana is desperate, since the town will demolish the building, if it cannot be fixed in time; her boss is putting pressure on her, and she makes a decision to bring back an old friend, to finish the job; but it has been 10 years, and she has not forgotten that he walked away from her.

Scott Ashford, our hero, is surprised when he receives a gift basket in his New York office, from a friend he hasn’t seen in years.  Scott is coming off a bad project, and when Mariana asks him to help her finish the restoration of the famous Brampton Mansion, he is thrilled and jumps at the chance to work at the mansion, as well as to see her again, including rebuilding his confidence

Mariana is happy Scott accepted the pro bono work he will do, as he is one of the best designers. She tries to keep the past in the background, as her reputation is also on the line. In a short time, Mariana and Scott renew their friendship, as they work closely together, especially with the time element.  At dinner one night, she confronts him why he walked from her, never to be seen again.  Scott apologized, but told her what actually happened and how his move was a lifetime opportunity that helped make his career; he says he regrets leaving her and thought about her often,   

Mariana learns more about Scott’s becoming a major interior designer over the last 10 years, as well as knowing more about his family. They spend more time together, as they attend fundraisers to promote the upcoming Christmas showcase, and some of their old sparks ignite.  Can Mariana trust Scott?

The Christmas Project was a delightful, sweet, heartwarming friends to lover’s romance, with wonderful appeal of the holiday season. Christi Barth gives us another fabulous holiday themed story, that was very well written. If you enjoy pure romance, second chances and a wonderful couple, you should read The Christmas Project.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy supplied for Review

 

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