Monthly Archives: March 2022

Soul Fire (RBMC: New Orleans 3.6) by Crimson Syn-a review

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SOUL FIRE (RBMC: New Orleans 3.6) by Crimson Syn

 

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 28, 2022

BRIMSTONE

I’ve seen souls set on fire,
I’ve tried to save them all,
But there are just some souls that don’t deserve to be rescued,
Including my own.
Soul is the only woman who’s tested my limits,
And now she’s testing my patience.
Death is too certain in my life,
To let love offer otherwise would make me a fool.

SOUL

Mason Hudson captured my heart after that first encounter.
Even he couldn’t put out the fire we ignited in each other.
And then, just like that, he left.
Now he’s back and wants to play bodyguard,
But as much as he wants to fight it,
There’s no guarding us against our love.
He has only one chance, and one way back,
And it will take a true hero to set my soul on fire.

•••••••

REVIEW: SOUL FIRE is a prequel novella in Crimson Syn’s contemporary, adult RBMC: New Orleans MC romance series. This is firefighter and MC member Lieutenant Mason ‘Brimstone’ Hudson, and Inn owner Soul Montgomery’s story line. SOUL FIRE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary but I recommend reading THE ENFORCER’S HOLIDAY PACKAGE for background and history as some of the events of the current timeline are as of a direct result of the events in the aforementioned story.

Told from three first person perspectives (Soul, Brim, Siege), set approximately thirty years earlier focusing on the OG, SOUL FIRE follows in the wake of a deliberate fire that set ablaze Soul Montgomery’s Mountain Inn in Port Townsend. Rescued by Lieutenant Mason ‘Brimstone’ Hudson, Soul would quickly become a part of Brimstone’s life but another deadly fire would see the Lieutenant reconsidering his career as a firefighter, as well as his membership in the RBMC. Struggling between head and heart, believing himself unworthy in the face of loss, Brimstone would play a game of push and pull with our storyline heroine, a game that would place Soul’s life in the direct line of fire when the Russian Mafia demands payment in return for someone they lost. What ensues is the back and forth, building but often heart breaking relationship between Soul and Brim, and the potential fall-out as Russian Mafia take aim at the women of the RBMC.

The relationship between Brim and Soul is one of instant attraction but a deadly fire finds Brim struggling with the loss of life, and the ensuing guilt surrounding the death of someone else.Needing Soul yet continually pushing our heroine aside, Brim battles his attraction and desire for a woman he believes he doesn’t deserve. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense.

The secondary and supporting characters include Siege and Harmony (The Enforcer’s Holiday Package) , Saddle, and Paul ‘Bulldog’ Jameson, club secretary Silencer, and Detective Noel ‘Cipher’ Garcia. We are introduced to Detective Aiyana Locklear.

SOUL FIRE is a story of loss and love, forgiveness and acceptance, vengeance and retribution, family and friendships. The fast paced premise is engaging and captivating; the romance struggles in the face of grief and guilt; the characters are energetic, enthusiastic and dynamic.

Previous Reviews
Inked in Vengeance
A Biker for Christmas
Scarred by Pain
A Cowboy Under the Mistletoe
Quivering Heart
Afflicted with Desire
The Enforcer’s Holiday Package

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

My name is Crimson Syn, not really, but what fun is it to use my real name. Instead I’ll use my inner goddess’ name, it’s much more fun that way. I grew up in New York City where I had a wonderful education, loving parents and awesome friends. What more could a girl ask for?

I started writing at the age of sixteen. The first romance I read was Stephanie Laurens’ Devil’s Bride. Since then I have been influenced by dozens of flourishing romance authors and even more dashing and daring rogues. I must say it, but Fifty Shades was not my first erotic romance, nor did it influence me to start writing them. If you’ve never read Mary Balogh, Elizabeth Hoyt, Lisa Kleypas, Bertrice Small or A.N. Roquelaure’s Sleeping Beauty trilogy, then you’re missing out. Those were my sweet introductions to erotic romance, and boy were they hot.

So here I am, after reading so many wonderful stories, I have too many sinful tales of my own not to share. I like my alphas rough and possessive, and I have no shame in saying it or writing it. I had delightfully wicked teachers growing up, their books took me to new worlds and brought me new loves. So, I want to do the same for you. I want to indulge my readers in those steamy reads that will send them into the arms of dangerous alphas and deliciously sexy rogues, without leaving the confines of their nice warm bed. If I am able to entice your inner goddesses, then I have done my job and I am satisfied.

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Between Bloode and Water by Marie Harte-a review

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Between Bloode and Water (Between the Shadows 3) by Marie Harte-a review

 

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 1, 2022

Kaia has had it with her mother. Talk about touchy. Offend the sea witch and pay the price. Oy. Granted, Kaia’s last boyfriend had been an idiot, but nearly sacrificing him to a dark god had been totally unnecessary. And those deals her mother keeps making with demons to obtain more power? Not a healthy way to achieve balance.

To stop her mother from sacrificing some other poor schlub, she sneaks into her mother’s lair and finds more intended sacrifices. But one of them has fangs.

Needing to get to safety before her mother returns and loses her mind, Kaia, a sea nymph, swims away with the guy and soon learns he’s under a spell.

In order to cure him, she overrides her mother’s magic with her own, weak though it may be. But now this male—a freakin’ vryko, a vampire who can swim like the merfolk—thinks he loves her. Curing Orion of the enchantment should have ended their association, but he’s still obsessed with her.

And for some reason, she’s intrigued by him as well. But the dark one to whom her mother promised a soul doesn’t care where it comes from. And since her mother has reneged on Orion, the dark one decides Kaia will do nicely in his place.

••••

REVIEW: BETWEEN BLOODE AND WATER is the third instalment in Marie Harte’s contemporary, adult BETWEEN SHADOWS paranormal romance series. This is two hundred and forty-six year old vryko vampire Orion, and soon to be twenty-five year old, water nymph Kaia Dunwich’s story line. BETWEEN BLOODE AND WATER can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and familiarity.

SOME BACKGROUND: There are ten tribes of vampires each made up of individual clans, all male, and each tribe of vampire has a different gift. Tribes hate other tribes, and clans hate other clans, even within the same tribe. Six Bloode Stones, thought to be the tears of the Primus Ambrogio, the ancestor of the vampires, are missing, and the meeting of all six stones, will ‘cause’ peace to fall upon the vampire race, the Blood Empire will unite and rule the worlds by destroying and consuming every living beast including the human race.

Told from several third person perspectives including Orion and Kaia, BETWEEN BLOODE AND WATER follows the building relationship between two hundred and forty-six year old vryko vampire Orion, and soon to be twenty-five year old, water nymph Kaia Dunwich. Kaia Dunwich is contracted to work with the local magir library, and our heroine suspects her mother Sabine, The White Sea Witch is using black magic. Kaia must infiltrate her mother’s magical island, an island that comes and goes to the eye, but Kaia never expected to find several werewolves, and a bespelled vampire, a vampire who claims Kaia is his mate. Enter vryko vampire Orion, and the man with whom Kaia will fall in love. What ensues is the rescue of our story line hero, as our couple grow closer together but only one who suspects it is all a ruse.

Orion is a vryko vampire, with the ability to swim and survive underwater, the perfect match for our story line heroine but Orion’s love and attraction to Kaia is precipitated by a powerful spell, a spell meant to keep Orion pliant and docile. Suspecting her mother had other plans for our story line hero, Kaia struggles with her attraction to a man, whose need for Kaia is a fabrication of magic. As Kaia and Orion grow closer together, the broken spell will reveal the truth, and Kaia will find herself the target of a powerful god. Orion reveals more of the history of his vampire clan, a history that doesn’t sit too well with our story line heroine.

Meanwhile, the clan continues to search for the Bloode Stones, thought to be the tears of the Primus (Ambrogio-the original vampire), stones that call to their direct descendants.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters include Kaia’s sister Macy and her vampire mate Duncan (Between Bloode and Craft 2); Night Bloode housemates and vampires Khent, Rolf, Kraft ; Orion’s kitten Shadow, as well as the clan patron, goddess Hecate, and her sidekick vampire/demon/magician/shifter Mormo, housekeeper Bella, and Fara’s brother and dark elf Onvyr; Macy’s best friend Cho, a half demon and his father Anton, as well as Kaia and Macy’s father Grand Mind Mage William Dunwich, and Kaia’s mother Sabine. The requisite evil has many faces. Once again, the back and forth between housemates is often frenetic and unbalanced. Kraft’s story is next in Between Bloode and Wolf.

BETWEEN BLOODE AND WATER is a story of family and betrayal, power and control, magic and passion, acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is entertaining and inviting ;the characters are animated and quirky; the romance is edgy and heart breaking.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

Between Bloode and Stone
Between Bloode and Craft

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Conceal (Vindicated 5) by KE Osborn & Addison Jane-Review Tour

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Conceal (The Vindicated Series 5) by KE Osborn & Addison Jane-Review Tour

 

 

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Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3ISJFqG

ABOUT THE BOOK:Release Date March 4, 2022

Confused, enraged, ruined—that’s how I felt when she left that day, and it took every ounce of strength I had not to go after her.

Our connection was a slow burn.

And it had begun to rage.

Until she blew out of town, with no warning, completely extinguishing the flames.

Now she’s here, standing on the doorstep, holding a piece of me I never knew existed. I should be angry. I should be hurt. But there’s no time for that. Threats have been made, and now it’s up to my team and me to bring down the almost untouchable elite coming after them.

I’ve already lost enough time, and I’ll protect them with my life before I go another day without the now most important parts of my world.

Our fire is stronger than before.

And they’re coming for my family.

But we’ll use it to burn them to the ground.

••••••

REVIEW:CONCEAL is the fifth instalment in the contemporary, adult THE VINDICATED erotic, romantic suspense series co-authored by Addison Jane and KE Osborn. This is dance instructor Molly , and special ops agent Noah’s story line. CONCEAL can be read as a stand alone but for back story and cohesion I recommend reading the series in order as many previous events and characters are often referenced, and there is some important information missing about the history between everyone and the group for which they work.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Noah and Molly) with a couple of final chapters from Tanner and Mayor Marks, CONCEAL follows the rebuilding romance and relationship between dance instructor and single mother Molly, and special ops agent Noah. Approximately one year earlier, Molly walked away from the man that she loved, carrying a secret she thought she would never reveal but her life in New York as a dance instructor was about to take disastrous turn when our heroine witnesses something she should have never seen, threatening her life in the process. With a target on her back and her proverbial tail tucked between her legs, Molly goes to Washington DC in search of the one man she is hoping will protect them both. Enter special ops agent Noah, and the man Molly has never stopped loving. As Molly’s secrets rip at our hero’s heart, a dirty politician is about to get away with murder. What ensues is the second chance romance and relationship between Noah and Molly, and the potential fall-out as a man with an agenda sets his sights on our story line heroine.

Noah is a member of SO7, a division of The Agency, and as such, their team does not exist but when trouble follows Molly on her return trip home, Noah and the team begin an investigation of their own, only to discover that political corruption goes all the way to the top. Molly has never stopped loving our story line hero but Molly never wanted to pull Noah away from what he loves. Coming home meant facing all of her demons, and the judgemental attitudes of people she once called family and friends.

The relationship between Molly and Noah is a second chance romance; a rekindling relationship in which Molly’s secrets are about to destroy our story line her. Noah knows that he must step up and take responsibility for what happened in the past but responsibility now includes a family that continues to grow. 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 colorful, energetic and charismatic secondary and supporting characters including all of Noah’s SO7 teammates-Lily and Kace, Luca and Everly, Axel and Kenzi, team leader Jack, Tanner, and Blair, as well as several members of the Malice MC including club president Ruin, Brix, Jinx and Falcon. We are introduced to New York Mayor Marks, his daughter Harper, and Noah’s brother Chad, their parents Caroline and Tom, and Noah’s ex Annamae.

The world building continues to focus on the camaraderie and friendships between the members of The Agency and SO7. As I have not read the first couple of books in the series, there is some confusion as to the history and backstory of the organization(s) SO7, and The Agency and how the groups are all interconnected. Many authors I have read and continue to read, add a series synopsis, or some backstory in each instalment, especially for new readers who may be lost when jumping onto the bandwagon in the middle of the series. Here’s hoping Addison and KE ease my mind in future instalments 😉

CONCEAL is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, murder and mayhem, forgiveness and love. The premise is dramatic, intriguing, and captivating; the romance is impassioned and seductive; the characters are dynamic, intense and determined.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of PERCEIVE

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

KE OSBORN

With a flair for all things creative, International Bestselling Author K E Osborn, is drawn to the written word. Exciting worlds and characters flow through her veins, coming to life on the page as she laughs, cries, and becomes enveloped in the storyline right along with you. She’s entirely at home when writing sassy heroines and alpha males that rise from the ashes of their pasts.

K E Osborn comforts herself with tea and Netflix, after all, who doesn’t love a good binge?

Turn lust into love at www.keosbornauthor.com

AUTHOR LINKS

Email: kesosborn.author@hotmail.com
Website: http://www.keosbornauthor.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keosbornauthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/KEOsbornAuthor
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KEOsborn
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/KEOsbornAuthor
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/k-e-osborn
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/K-E-Osborn/e/B00F6RK2HS
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/beIMc1

ADDISON JANE

BOOKBUB – https://www.bookbub.com/authors/addison-jane
AMAZON – https://www.amazon.com/Addison-Jane/e/B01CV33BWC/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2?qid=1475711584&sr=1-2
TWITTER – http://twitter.com/AddisonJaneNZ
EMAIL – Addisonjaneauthor@gmail.com
FACEBOOK – https://www.facebook.com/Addisonjaneauthor

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Dreaming of a Devilish Highlander by Vonda Sinclair-Interview & Giveaway

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Dreaming of a Devilish Highlander (Highlander Shifters 1) by Vonda Sinclair-Review, Interview & Giveaway

 

DREAMING OF A DEVILISH HIGHLANDER
Highland Shifters #1
by Vonda Sinclair
Release Date: February 9, 2022
Genre: adult, historical, Highlander, paranormal, romance

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

A devilish Highlander cursed to change form…

After defending himself in an ambush and defeating his attacker, Gavin MacTavish finds himself cursed by a woman of the enemy clan. Lady Wilona MacRae is a witch of the dark arts and the mother of his slain foe. Ensnared in the curse, Gavin spontaneously transforms into a hawk at dawn each day, then shifts back into a man at sunset. Devastated that his father has been struck with madness because of the curse, Gavin has no choice but to become chief of a dwindling clan. Fearing him as if he were the devil himself, most have fled.

A wayward lass from the future…

When Dani MacRae, a 21st century English lit professor, is given an ancient family heirloom—a brooch—she begins having sensual dreams of a gorgeous Highlander. These spellbinding dreams threaten to take over her life. But when she holds a 400-year-old claymore at a Highland games event, she’s stunned to find herself thrust back in time to 1630 Scotland, into the bedchamber of the intriguing man who invaded her dreams.

A profound love…

After kissing the bonny, unusual lass, Gavin knows she’s the only woman for him, the woman his eccentric father insists he must marry to destroy the curse. But can Gavin conceal from her what he becomes during the daytime? Surely she will reject him and leave if she finds out.

In an effort to help his ill father and his clan, Dani reluctantly agrees to marry Gavin… at least until she can find his enchanted sword, which could return her to the future. Being ripped from her beloved modern day relatives and successful career, Dani is unsure whether she can sacrifice everything for Gavin. That is… until she falls hard for him.

Once Lady MacRae learns Dani is attempting to break her evil spell, she uses any means possible to thwart the union. Can Gavin and Dani seize the magnificent love that will shatter darkness, banish evil, and restore their good fortune?

••••••••

REVIEW: Historical Romance with a hint of magic and I’m there.

This book did remind me a little of Outlander and The Discovery of Witches (with the time travel) but also a film that I love (Ladyhawke) but that’s where the similarities end.

A book I couldn’t put down once I started, really well thought out and written. Descriptions of the scenery had me easily imagining myself walking alongside Gavin and Dani. Loved the Scottish dialect and its usage in the book (some authors don’t use it correctly, and for me spoils the read.)

Gavin is the Laird of his small clan, he became the Laird after his father became mad after a curse settles on his clan! A lot of the villagers left (frightened off) so Gavin is working hard to restore both his name and reputation. Gavin is such a solid character, he’s frightened and angry at the curse, but he’s trying to live his life as normally as he can (a little hard when you turn into a hawk as the sun rises!)

Dani is our time travelling damsel. But the only distress she had was getting back to her own time, oh and avoiding marriage to Gavin! She’s an English literature professor from the 21st century, a no nonsense woman who had me in stitches with her wit and inner dialogue. Being thrown back in time would unsettle most people, and it certainly keeps Dani on her toes.

Lady MacRae is the villain in this book, casting spells and doing her best to keep the marriage from happening. She cast the curse after Gavin. I did feel a little sorry for her, and at times I wanted her to repent and change (if she does that you’ll need to read the book) but we also need a good villain to boo and hiss at, and Wilona more than adequately fit that remit.

Reading about this pair did have me chuckling as you watch them skirt around their feelings for one another. Can Gavin tell Dani about his predicament without scaring her away? Will Dani want to stay in a world that has no wifi, no lighting and no running hot water? Can the pair break the curse? Can they live as man and wife, or will Dani be forced to live a half life with her”hawk” husband?

This is the first book in a new series, and although I’ve not read this author or any of her previous books, I’m adding this series to my “watch for” list.

? Reviewed by Julie B

Copy supplied for review

TRC:  Hi Vonda and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the release of DREAMING OF A DEVILISH HIGHLANDER.

<Vonda Sinclair: Thanks so much! It’s an honor to be featured on your site.

TRC:  We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Follow: Goodreads /Facebook /Twitter /Website /Amazon Author Page

Vonda Sinclair: I live in beautiful North Carolina but my favorite place to travel is bonny Scotland. I haven’t visited since 2017, so I’m really starting to miss it. Writing stories set in Scotland is always a great joy. My hobbies include gardening and amateur photography.

TRC:  Who or what influenced your career in writing?

Vonda Sinclair: Several years ago, before I started writing romance, I was addicted to reading it. I loved all types… historical, paranormal, contemporary, etc. One day I thought… I wonder if I could create characters and write a story. Writing romance novels started as an experiment but became a huge part of my life and a wonderful career. I became obsessed with words and how they sound together, how they evoke images and emotions. I love to create a story world full of characters and experiences for readers.

TRC:  What challenges or difficulties did you encounter writing and publishing this story?

Vonda Sinclair: I experienced a lot of stress in 2020 and 2021 for obvious reasons, as I’m sure everyone has. The stress, lack of focus, and difficulty concentrating hampered my creativity and inspiration. The book took much longer than it should have to complete. I hope I can keep going with a good momentum. In addition, I’m writing part time now instead of full time due to other responsibilities.

TRC:  Would you please tell us something about the premise of DREAMING OF A DEVILISH HIGHLANDER?

Vonda Sinclair: The basic premise is can true love break a curse? Most of my stories are based on the healing power of love.

When Gavin MacTavish and his party are attacked in the forest on the way home, they’re forced to defend themselves or die. Unfortunately, the man Gavin kills is the son of a witch. Literally. She places curses on Gavin and his two friends. Gavin’s life becomes a living hell. Help comes in the form of a modern day woman. Dani has a wonderful career as a professor and a good life, but she cannot find love until she falls into the past. They complement and contrast each other in many ways. This story has a lot of steam and humor.

TRC: What kind of research/plotting did you do, and how long did you spend researching /plotting before beginning DREAMING OF A DEVILISH HIGHLANDER?

Vonda Sinclair:  I’m always researching when I write. I like to get specific about which foods were eaten in Scotland in the early 1600s. When the characters move about the castles, details of what they’re seeing and experiencing are important. For instance, how the windows worked, how the door locks operated. What does it feel like and smell like in a castle dungeon? I’ve been fortunate to have explored several Scottish castles, both ruins and inhabited ones. This research has been invaluable for getting the details right. When I write rough draft, I don’t always include all the specifics. I’ll research the exact detail I need on later drafts. It helps that I’ve written several books set between 1618 and 1630. A lot of it sticks in my mind, and I might only have to go back and double check something. For instance, sending a missive back then required several more steps than writing a letter or email today. Everything was done differently four-hundred years ago, and I like to give readers a sense of what that was like.

TRC: How many books do you have planned for the series?

Vonda Sinclair: I plan to do three books, stories about Gavin, Torr, and Brodie. Of course, I could come up with a creative excuse to add more. One of my other series, Highland Adventure, has ten books so far and I’m not finished with the series. Secondary characters keep demanding their own stories which is wonderful fun.

TRC: Believability is an important factor in writing story lines especially stories with a paranormal premise-readers like to think ‘what if?’. How do you keep the story line believable? Where do you think some author’s fail?

Vonda Sinclair: For me, believability comes from specific details, which ties into research. You have to make the story feel real by inserting the reader into the story, making them experience every aspect of the world you’ve created. Sensory details are important and so are historical setting details. Scotland has changeable, tempestuous weather, and I like to include it when I can. I would include emotions here too. Help the reader to feel exactly what the character is feeling. For paranormal elements, show how and why something so farfetched is really possible. In other words, the explanation is shown in vivid detail. In any type of story, the author has to convince the reader to suspend disbelief. I suppose this is done via the author’s craft, skill, experience, intuition, creativity, etc.

TRC: Do you believe the cover image plays a deciding factor for many readers in the process of selecting a book or new series to read?

Vonda Sinclair: Yes, it does for me. I’m sure a lot of readers feel the same way. Most people ignore the old adage of don’t judge a book by its cover.

TRC: When writing a storyline, do the characters direct the writing or do you direct the characters?

Vonda Sinclair: I would say it’s a little of both in my case. Sometimes a scene will come to me almost fully formed. Other times, I’ll brainstorm on paper… maybe this could happen or maybe that could happen. This will spur other ideas until something gels.

TRC: The mark of a good writer is to pull the reader into the storyline so that they experience the emotions along with the characters. What do you believe a writer must do to make this happen? Where do you believe writer’s fail in this endeavor?

Vonda Sinclair: As I mentioned earlier, I feel it has to do with the details. Emotions are one of the trickier parts of writing. If it doesn’t come naturally to the writer, they’ll need to learn the skill through reading books, noticing how great writers do it, taking workshops and practicing. This is especially important in romance because it’s an emotional genre. Some new writers tell emotion (She was sad.) instead of making the reader cry. The best writers make the readers bite their nails, cry, laugh, yell, etc. You really want to get the reader involved in the story. Connected to this is creating characters that readers love. If readers care about your characters, they’re going to be invested in their emotions.

TRC: Do you listen to music while writing? If so, does the style of music influence the storyline direction? Characters?

Vonda Sinclair: I sometimes listen to Celtic instrumental music or music designed for concentration and focus. I don’t want to listen to distracting music or singing. It has to fit the mood of the story, and I keep it at a low volume.

TRC: What do you believe is the biggest misconception people have about authors?

Vonda Sinclair: If their books are flamboyant and over the top, then the author will be too. A lot of us are introverts. Or maybe they think we are just like our characters. (We’re not. lol)

TRC: What is something that few, if anyone, know about you?

Vonda Sinclair: Most readers don’t know I have a BS in psychology and a minor in studio art. I studied French for four years. Believe it or not, these do tie into my books. lol

TRC: Who or what influenced your path towards a young adult, paranormal story line.

Vonda Sinclair: I wanted a short break from historical romance. Sometimes it’s fun and refreshing to work on something unusual like shapeshifters and time travel.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Vonda Sinclair: The second story in this series, the one about Gavin’s friend Torr. I haven’t finalized the title yet.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Vonda Sinclair: I just want to say thank you for this interview. It has been fun!

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food
I love a lot of foods, but since I’m currently doing low-carb, I’ll say bacon. lol

Favorite Dessert
Cheesecake

Favorite TV Show
Downton Abbey

Last Movie You Saw
Downton Abbey (See a pattern here?)

Dark or Milk Chocolate
Either

Secret Celebrity Crush
Jason Momoa

Last Vacation Destination
Scotland

Do you have any pets?
Yes, cats.

Last book you read
I listened to an audiobook about meditation by Emily Fletcher.

TRC: Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on the release of DREAMING OF A DEVLISH HIGHLANDER. We wish you all the best.

Vonda Sinclair: Thanks so much!!

Vonda Sinclair is graciously offering a paper copy of DREAMING OF A DEVILISH HIGHLANDER to ONE (1) lucky commentator 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 Vonda Sinclair on Facebook

4. Please FOLLOW Vonda Sinclair on Twitter

5. Please FOLLOW The Reading Cafe on FACEBOOK .

6. FOLLOW The Reading Cafe on Twitter for an additional entry.

7. Please FOLLOW The Reading Cafe on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

8. Please follow The Reading Cafe on Tumblr

9. Giveaway open to USA and CANADA only

10. Giveaway runs from March 12-17, 2022

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Ruthless Redemption (Hunting Duet 2) by Eden Summers-Review Tour

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Ruthless Redemption (Hunting Duet 2) by Eden Summers-Review Tour

 

 

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 10, 2022

They say love hurts—but they never mentioned it could make you bleed.

His deceit was like wine.
I drank it in. Let it intoxicate me.
But he’s not the man I fell for.
Matthew Langston is a lie.

I’d run from him if I could. I’d flee. If only he hadn’t turned my family against me.
Now, I have nothing. There’s no money, phone, or external support.
Only him, and his obsession with winning me back.

So I’ll use it to my advantage. I’ll use him.
Because he made a promise to help me get revenge on those we despise.
And once that’s over, so are we.

•••••

REVIEW:RUTHLESS REDEMPTION is the second instalment in Eden Summers’ contemporary, adult HUNTING dark, erotic, Mafia, romantic suspense duet-a spin off from the author’s HUNTER HER series. This is the continuing story of single mother Layla Torian, and businessman Matthew Langston’s story line. RUTHLESS REDEMPTION should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up immediately after the events of book one SEEKING VENGEANCE. I recommend reading the HUNTING HER series for back story and cohesion where Layla’s story begins.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Layla and Matthew) RUTHLESS REDEMPTION picks up immediately after the cliff hanger of SEEKING VENGEANCE in which Layla Torian discovers the true identity of the man with whom she had fallen in love, and the extent to which her extended family wishes she no longer existed. A virtual prisoner of the man she once loved, Layla struggles with her attraction to a man who all but destroyed her life. What ensues is the tempestuous relationship between Layla and Matthew, and the potential fall-out as Matthew’s history, and Layla’s past collide, in a fight to the death.

Layla Torian no longer trusts Matthew Langston, or the family that supposedly has let her down. Years under the ruthless control of her father have left Layla embattled and alone but her only thoughts are for the daughter she left behind. Succumbing to Matthew’s apologies and seduction forces Layla to look at the bigger picture when the truth is finally revealed. Matthew Langston knows that when Layla discovers the reality of his past, there may be no turning back from the betrayal and deception but Matthew is willing to risk everything for the woman he loves.

The relationship between Matthew and Layla struggles in the face of secrets, lies and betrayal. Layla is an outcast; a prisoner; a woman on her own but a woman who is determined to regain her freedom, perhaps at the cost of everything she knows. Matthew is desperate for Layla’s forgiveness but protecting our heroine is first and foremost on his mind. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and passionate but I struggle with the use of a certain four-letter word, used only once, but to what purpose.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Layla’s extended family of siblings and one-time friends from the original Hunting Her series: Decker and Keira, her brother Cole, Layla’s daughter Stella; Matthew’s brothers Salvo and Remy; Matthew’s right-hand man Bishop, as well as his uncle Lorenzo, and his father Emmanuel.

RUTHLESS REDEMPTION is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, obsession and love. The premise is heart breaking, edgy and emotional; the romance is captivating and impassioned; the characters are broken, lost, energetic and resolute. RUTHLESS REDEMPTION ends on a bit of a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

 Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one SEEKING VENGEANCE

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

Eden Summers is a bestselling author of contemporary romance with a side of sizzle and sarcasm.

She lives in Australia with a young family who are well aware she’s circling the drain of insanity. Eden can’t resist alpha dominance, dark features and sarcasm in her fictional heroes and loves a strong heroine who knows when to bite her tongue but also serves retribution with a feminine smile on her face

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A Million Kisses in Your Lifetime by Monica Murphy-Review Tour

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A Million Kisses in Your Lifetime by Monica Murphy-Review Tour

 

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

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

Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3opBhHg

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 10, 2022

Wren Beaumont is many things.

Beautiful.
Smart.
Sweet.
Innocent.

At Lancaster Prep, the girls love her. They all want to be her friend. Only I see Wren for who she really is.

A repressed little virgin who keeps her feelings locked up so tight she’s probably close to bursting. She thinks she’s above us all.

Even me.

I shouldn’t be drawn to her. She’s not my type.

Until we’re forced to work together in class and realize we might have more things in common than we originally thought. Soon enough I find myself completely obsessed. I will do anything for this girl to make her fall in love with me.

Anything.

••••••

REVIEW:A MILLION KISSES IN YOUR LIFETIME by Monica Murphy is a contemporary, YA/NA stand alone erotic, romance story line set in the author’s THINGS I WANTED TO SAY (BUT NEVER DID) world. This is prep school students Crew Lancaster, and Wren ‘Birdy’ Beaumont’s story line. A MILLION KISSES IN YOUR LIFETIME can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. Crew is Whit Lancaster’s cousin (Things I Wanted To Say); Crew’s brother Grant’s story can be found in the novella- THE WRONG BROTHER.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers. Although the characters are seventeen and eighteen years old, the sexual situations are adult in nature.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Crew and Wren) A MILLION KISSES IN YOUR LIFETIME follows the tempestuous but building relationship between Lancaster Prep Boarding School eighteen year olds Crew Lancaster, and Wren Beaumont. Crew Lancaster is part of the school ‘legacy’, and as such his attitude is that of ownership and power, and something about newcomer Wren Beaumont irks Crew Lancaster like never before, so he makes it his mission to discover everything about our heroine whether she wants him to or not. Forced to work together on a psychology assignment, Wren and Crew slowly unravel the ins and outs of one another’s lives, an unravelling that pulls our couple closer together but all is not well at Lancaster Prep when a teacher is found to be crossing the line. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Wren and Crew, and the potential fall-out when Wren’s over protective father threatens to end the relationship before it gets started.

Crew Lancaster is a bully, and Wren is his current target but the acrimonious back and forth between our story line couple hides a barely veiled attraction that quickly turns into something more. From the outset, Wren’s new girl status made her popular amongst the other girls but slowly, Wren’s likability fell when the mean girls decided it was time to target our story line heroine. Wren is an innocent; naïve to many of the boy/girl nuances but an innocence fueled by the people at home.

The relationship between Crew and Wren is often testy and acerbic but Wren has no idea why Crew took an immediate dislike to our story line heroine. Working together meant a forced proximity, that pushed our couple together towards their own happily ever after. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate.

We are introduced to Crew’s family including his brothers, Finn and Grant, girlfriend Alyssa (THE WRONG BROTHER), their sister Charlotte, and Wren’s parents Harvey and Cecily, whose own relationship is combative and failing; Crews’ friends Malcolm and Ezra; Wren’s friend Maggie Gipson, as well as embattled Honors English teacher Mr. Figueroa, psychology teacher Ms. Skov, and the requisite mean girls. Charlotte’s story will be released in April 2022-The Reluctant Bride.

A MILLION KISSES IN YOUR LIFETIME is a story of power, control, money, and trust; family and friendships, relationships and love. The character driven premise is edgy and dramatic; the romance is tender and seductive; the characters are animated and intense.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

Monica Murphy is the New York Times, USA Today and #1 international bestselling author of the One Week Girlfriend series, the Billionaire Bachelors and The Rules series. Her books have been translated in almost a dozen languages and has sold over one million copies worldwide. She is both self-published and published by Random House/Bantam and Harper Collins/Avon. She writes new adult, young adult and contemporary romance.

She is a wife and a mother of three who lives in central California on fourteen acres in the middle of nowhere along with their one dog and too many cats. A self-confessed workaholic, when she’s not writing, she’s reading or hanging out with her husband and kids. She’s a firm believer in happy endings, though she will admit to putting her characters through angst-filled moments before they finally get that hard won HEA.

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Defiant Queen (Savage Heir 6) by Jagger Cole-Review Tour

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Defiant Queen (Savage Heir 6) by Jagger Cole-Review Tour

 

 

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 10, 2022

She can’t remember.
I won’t forget.

Two houses, both alike in indignity.

In violence, bloodshed, and tragedy.

But this rose by any other name would still be mine.

Death couldn’t take her from me.

Her running away won’t either.

I pulled her from her darkness, and wrapped her in mine.

Now I’ll turn the world to ash to find her.

My sweetest torment, and cruelest obsession.

My tale of woe.

A shattered Juliet, for the anti-Romeo.

••••••

REVIEW:DEFIANT QUEEN is the sixth instalment in Jagger Cole’s contemporary, new adult SAVAGE HEIRS dark, erotic, Mafia romance series, and the second instalment in the author’s interconnected due focusing on eighteen year old Mafia princess Mara Belsky, and heir to the Reznikov’s throne Konstantin Reznikov. DEFIANT QUEEN should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up immediately after the events and cliff hanger of BROKEN GOD.

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

SOME BACKGROUND: Several weeks earlier Mara Belsky woke from a four year coma, a coma induced by a bullet to the back of her head. Forced to move in with Konstantin Reznikov, Mara’s slow recovery of her memories begin to reveal dark and dangerous truth that sends our heroine on the run.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Konstantin and Mara) DEFIANT QUEEN follows Mafia princess Mara Belsky as she journeys to Russia to uncover the truth about the day she was struck by an assassin’s bullet but the target upon our heroine’s back has yet to be removed, and Mara finds herself in constant danger from an unknown source, and the man that she loves. Konstantin Reznikov is keeping secrets from our story line heroine, secrets he knows could destroy the limited trust between Mara and himself but the past refuses to die, and our couple continue to be the focus of a series of reminders that everything they knew could very well be a lie. What ensues is the rebuilding relationship between Konstantin and Mara, and the fall-out as an assassin returns to finish the job.

Konstantin Reznikov’s backstory is heart breaking and dark; a backstory that has groomed a man to be cold and unforgiving, dangerous and deadly. The only light in Konstantin’s young life was destroyed by the people sworn to protect, and our hero refuses to watch the woman he loves succumbed to the same end.

The relationship between Mara and Konstantin is tempestuous and unforgiving. Mara believes Konstantin is the ultimate betrayer, and Konstantin struggles to reveal the truth. A slow rebuilding of trust and acceptance forces Konstantin to expose the darkness he has endured all of his life. The $ex scenes are aggressive, erotic and intense.

Once again, Mara’s twin sister Lizbet and her boyfriend Lucas (Brutal King) are front and center in our heroine’s life, as well as her former bodyguard Grigori, and Konstantin’s best friend and right hand man Vadim and his father Gavan. The requisite evil has many faces.

DEFIANT QUEEN is a story of betrayal and revenge; obsession and delusion; trust and understanding; friendship and family, love and acceptance with a few twists and turns to add shock and surprise. The premise is dark, gritty and haunting; the romance is spicy and provocative; the characters are broken, flawed, determined and strong.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one BROKEN GOD

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

A reader first and foremost, Jagger Cole cut his romance writing teeth penning various fan-fiction stories years ago. After deciding to hang up his writing boots, Jagger worked in advertising pretending to be Don Draper. It worked enough to convince a woman way out of his league to marry him, though, which is a total win.

Now, Dad to two little princesses and King to a Queen, Jagger is thrilled to be back at the keyboard.

When not writing or reading romance books, he can be found woodworking, enjoying good whiskey, and grilling outside–rain or shine.

You can find all of his books at www.jaggercolewrites.com

Grab a FREE book for joining my fans-only newsletter – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/8rld1ik3sd

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Killer Kiss (Ruthless Revenge 1) by Kristen Luciani-Review Tour

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Killer Kiss (Ruthless Revenge 1) by Kristen Luciani-Review Tour

 

 

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 4, 2022

A bratva princess needs protection from the man secretly hired to destroy her…Me.
My job was to protect the gorgeous heiress to the Ivankov mafia empire after her parents were murdered.

I thought she’d be naive and innocent like her sisters. I didn’t count on the fiery vixen princess who’d narrowly escaped the third bullet meant for her.

I need to become her savior… before I reveal myself as her devil.

She fights me with all of the anger, distrust, and stubbornness that floods her sinful body, fueling every one of my twisted desires. Her actions beg me for punishment in the form of bound wrists and the sharp sting of my palm against her flesh.

She will learn to obey.

As time goes on, I slowly forget my hatred and shelve all plans for revenge, my obsession with Kristina Ivankov swallowing me whole.

I will not lose.
I will claim my prize.
I will own the princess and her kingdom.
Forever.

••••••

REVIEW:KILLER KISS is the first instalment in Kristen Luciani’s contemporary, adult RUTHLESS REVENGE dark, Mafia, erotic romance series focusing on criminal underworld heirs Massimo Marrone and med student Kristina Ivankov. The RUTHLESS REVENGE trilogy is set in the same world as the author’s Reckless Reign and Sinfully Savage worlds. Some of the characters cross over or are mentioned for cohesion and familiarity.

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

Told from dual first person perspectives (Massimo and Kristina) KILLER KISS follows in the wake of the Mafia style hit on Kristina’s parents Anton and Kira Ivankov. On leave from med school to help celebrate her sister’s eighteenth birthday, Kristina suspects not all is right in her father’s organization but gunfire kills her parents before secrets are revealed, and heroine is left to pick up the pieces. Anton’s ‘business partner’ Savio offers up Massimo, his head of security to help ‘protect’ our story line heroine and her sisters, but Massimo has secrets that threaten everyone involved. What ensues is the building relationship between Massimo and Kristina, and the fall-out as betrayal and lies destroy all trust Kristina has in the people she loves.

Massimo has secrets but our hero has been threatened, and Kristina Ivankov is a means to an end. Not only is Anton’s business partner searching for the truth, but someone else is targeting what’s left of the Ivankov Crime Syndicate. Kristina Ivankov is no shrinking violet, and is capable of defending herself when necessary but she quickly discovers that the fight for power and control is about to become personal, taking aim at our story line heroine. Not only is the Ivankov Crime Syndicate on the precipice of imploding but the Juarez Cartel, and the Leota Commission want to ensure their place at the top.

The relationship between Massimo and Kristina is quick to develop. Kristina hires Massimo as protector and guardian but one man is not capable of being in several places at one time. Believing Massimo is keeping secrets, Kristina attempts to seduce our story line hero, only to find she is the one on the receiving end of seduction. The $ex scenes are intimate erotic and intense.

There is a large ensemble cast of energetic, powerful and controversial secondary and supporting characters including Kristina’s sisters Sofia and Maria, Quinn Mulligan from the Mulligan Crime Family; Uncle Frank, and mob boss Savio. The requisite evil has many faces.

KILLER KISS is a story of secrets and lies, power and control, betrayal and vengeance, broken trust and heart break. The fast paced premise is dramatic, dark and gritty; the romance is provocative; the characters are edgy and animated ….but saying that, there is a question of believability in the face of a lack of in-house, personal and property security for the Ivanokov family and its’ organization-questionable on so many levels affecting the believability from the start. KILLER KISS ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

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Kristen Luciani is a self-proclaimed momtrepreneur, beauty product junkie, and USA Today bestselling romance author with a penchant for stilettos, Silicon Valley, plunging necklines and grapefruit martinis.  As a deep-rooted romantic who prefers juicy drama to fill the lives of anyone other than her, she tried her hand at creating a world of enchantment, sensuality, and intrigue, finally uncovering her true passion. No pun intended…

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