Monthly Archives: June 2022

On One Condition (S.I.N. #2) by K. Bromberg-review tour

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On One Condition (S.I.N. #2) by K. Bromberg-review tour

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 27, 2022.

The requirement is ridiculous but simple. Spend two months in Cedar Falls and play the mayor’s games to ensure that The Retreat, Sharpe International’s newest resort, can open.

But I have a history with this small, Montana town. One I’d tried to forget but never could. Asher Wells. My Lavender Girl.

She’d had dreams and aspirations to leave Cedar Falls and make her mark on the world. So why is she still here, standing in front of me? And more importantly, why is she looking at me with hurt in her eyes when I was the one who‘d been forced to leave or else face the damning consequences of that night?

I have everything in life: money, success, an empire to run . . . everything except for one, very important thing. Her.

Fifteen years is a long time to wonder. . . what if. I’ll be damned if I leave town this time without her.

••••

REVIEW:ON ONE CONDITION is the second instalment in K. Bromberg’s contemporary, adult S.IN. erotic, romance series focusing on the Sharpe Triplets-Callahan, Ford and Ledger. This is billionaire businessman Ledger Sharpe, and thirty-two year old Lavender farmer Asher Wells’ story line. ON ONE CONDITION can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Asher and Ledger) ON ONE CONDITION follows the second chance romance and relationship between is billionaire businessman Ledger Sharpe, and thirty-two year old Lavender farmer Asher Wells. Fifteen years earlier, Ledger Sharpe and Asher Wells had their whole lives ahead of them. Ledger and his family would spend the summers in Cedar Falls, where he met and fell in love with local girl Asher Wells but their last summer together ended in heart break for both, and neither one could forgive or forget what happened or why. Fast forward to present day and Sharpe International International Network is building a resort in Cedar Falls, Montana, a resort that has the town divided. Reconnecting with Ledger Sharpe brings with it too many heart breaking memories from the past, a past mired in secrets and lies for our story line couple. What ensues is the rebuilding romance and relationship between Asher and Ledger, and the potential fall-out as Asher continues to struggle in the wake of love and loss, as the truth threatens to destroy our story line hero.

Asher Wells lost her heart the day she was pushed to the side, believing she wasn’t worthy of the man that she loved. Ledger Sharpe’s life wasn’t easy in the shadow of his powerful father, a father who controlled every aspect of his sons’ lives, down to their future and the woman Ledger had loved.

The relationship between Ledger and Asher is one of second chances but the small town of Cedar Falls doesn’t forget, and in this, Asher’s life has been difficult and hard. Ledger remembers the young woman who had stolen his heart, never realizing the hurt and pain inflicted by someone else. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are reintroduced to Ledger’s brothers Callahan and Ford, as well as Ledger’s assistant a Hillary; Asher’s best friend Nita, and Cedar Falls’ Mayor Grossman.

ON ONE CONDITION is a story of second chances; a rekindling romance once destroyed by power and control, secrets and lies, family and love. The premise is captivating and emotional; the romance is seductive; the characters are charismatic and energetic.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one LAST RESORT

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

New York Times Bestselling author K. Bromberg writes contemporary novels that contain a mixture of sweet, emotional, a whole lot of sexy, and a little bit of real. She likes to write strong heroines, and damaged heroes who we love to hate and hate to love.

A mom of three, she plots her novels in between school runs and soccer practices, more often than not with her laptop in tow.

Since publishing her first book in 2013, K. has sold over one million copies of her books and has landed on the New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestsellers lists over twenty-five times.

In April, she’ll release The Player, the first in a two-book sports romance series (The Catch, book 2, will be released late June), with many more already outlined and ready to be written.

She loves to hear from her readers so make sure you check her out on social media or sign up for her newsletter to stay up to date on all her latest releases and sales HERE

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon Author | Driven Group

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The I Do Over by Samantha Chase-review tour

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The I Do Over (Meet Me at the Altar 6) by Samantha Chase-review tour

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 28, 2022

For 48 hours, they were married. But that was a long time ago.

Seventeen years ago, Maddie Christopher told one little white lie, and it has been wreaking havoc on her life ever since. At the time, the lie was worth it—it meant she got to marry the man she loved, however brief a marriage it was—but now she’s ready to finally move on. But in order to do that, she needs to find the man whose heart she broke all those years ago and finally apologize.

Knox Channing has everything he could have asked for in life—after a career in the Navy SEALs, he’s now running a thriving security firm with his two best friends. The only thing that would make it better is if he wasn’t the lone single guy in his friend group. But after having had his heart broken once, he’s not looking to go back there. Or at least that’s what he thought before Maddie showed up in his office.

He swore that he would never let himself fall for anyone again, much less for the woman who once broke his heart. But sometimes you fall in love with the most unexpected person at the most unexpected time. Twice.

•••••

REVIEW:THE I DO OVER is the sixth instalment in Samantha Chase’s contemporary, adult MEET ME AT THE ALTAR romance series. This is thirty four year old, physio-therapist Maddie Christopher, and thirty-five year old, former Navy SEAL/security consultant Knox Channing’s story line. THE I DO OVER can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives THE I DO OVER focuses on the second chance relationship between thirty four year old, physio-therapist Maddie Christopher, and thirty-five year old, former Navy SEAL/security consultant Knox Channing. Seventeen years earlier, high school sweethearts Knox Channing and Maddie Christopher, crosses state lines, returning home married, ready to start their lives together but Maddie’s father exploded, sending Maddie away, leaving a heart broken Knox in the wake. Having joined the Navy, Knox spent fifteen years as a US Navy SEAL, a position that allowed him to start the SEAL SECURITY firm with his two best friends, friends that are about to discover the truth. What ensues is the rebuilding romance and relationship between Maddie and Knox, and the potential fall-out as Maddie struggles between head and heart, family and friendships, Knox and love.

Maddie Christopher’s life was destroyed the day her father sent her away. For close to seventeen years, Maddie has struggled in the wake of losing the only man she would ever love, a man she betrayed when everything spiralled out of control. Needing to apologize, Maddie heads to North Carolina to confront the man she has never forgotten, a man who still holds a grudge against our story line heroine. Knox Channing never knew hurt like the hurt Maddie Christopher inflicted seventeen years earlier. With her arrival in North Carolina, Knox struggles between head and heart, knowing he may never be able to trust the woman that broke his heart.

The relationship between Knox and Maddie is one of second chances: a rekindling relationship that would continue to struggle in the face of the past, and the present that refuses to let go. The $ex scenes all fade to black.

We are reintroduced to Knox’s fellow Navy SEALs and business partners: Daniel Alexander and Josie Sullivan (You May Kiss the Groomsman 3), Xander Madden and Daisy Sinclair (The Proposal Playbook 4), all of whom struggle with Knox’s rekindling romance with the woman who broke his heart.

THE I DO OVER is a story of family, friendships, betrayal and heart break. The premise is engaging and entertaining; the romance is seductive and sweet; the characters are determined and energetic.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

The Engagement Embargo
With This Cake
You May Kiss the Groomsman
The Proposal Playbook
Groomed to Perfection

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

FOLLOW: Goodreads / Twitter / Website / Facebook / Instagram / TikTok / Bookbub /

New York Times and USA Today Bestseller/contemporary romance writer Samantha Chase released her debut novel, Jordan’s Return, in November 2011. Although she waited until she was in her 40’s to publish for the first time, writing has been a lifelong passion. Her motivation to take that step was her students: teaching creative writing to elementary age students all the way up through high school and encouraging those students to follow their writing dreams gave Samantha the confidence to take that step as well.

When she’s not working on a new story, she spends her time reading contemporary romances, playing way too many games of Scrabble or Solitaire on Facebook and spending time with her husband of 25 years and their two sons in North Carolina.

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The Single Dad (The Dalton Brothers 3) by Marni Mann-Review Tour

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The Single Dad (The Dalton Brothers 3) by Marni Mann-Review Tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 28, 2022

A sexy single dad and nanny romance from USA Today best-selling author Marni Mann …

Most college-aged girls go to Europe to experience their sexual awakening.

All I had to do was come home.

Ford Dalton isn’t the kind of man I’d look at twice—because I can’t stop looking at him at all.

We can’t take our hands off each other in the bar.

Back at his house, it’s our lips.

And in his bed?

There isn’t a single part of us that’s not on fire.

One night would never be long enough for Ford to show me every delicious thing he can do to my body.

But there’s something he’s keeping from me: he’s already met the love of his life.

His daughter, Everly.

And there’s something I’m keeping from him: I just applied for the job of my dreams.

Everly’s new nanny.

••••••

REVIEW: I think I’m gonna need to start charging these characters for the amount of emotional turmoil they put me through. If you’re looking for a single dad, swoon worthy romance, then look no further than Marni Mann’s newest release; The Single Dad. This is book three in the Dalton Brothers series and can be read as either a standalone or in series order.

Sydney has been working abroad as a nanny, chasing her dreams of traveling the world and seeing all its wonders it has to offer while she figures out what she wants to be when she “grows up.” Returning home with her goal in mind, she turns to her best friend for a place to crash while she sorts through her stuff. During a night out, who does she happen to run into? That’s right readers…

Ford.

Ford had his life changed the moment little Everly was placed in his arms, since then nothing would ever matter more than her and her happiness. During a forced outing with his brothers, Ford’s eye is caught by the lovely Sydney. Their attraction is sizzling, and it’s not just her looks that have captured him, it’s also their conversation. One thing leads to another, and they both give into the heat of sexual need they are both feeling. This lands them in bed for a night of mind boggling, white hot indulgent spicy time.

Fast forward to a week later, Sydney walks into Ford office for what? An interview for the nanny for little Everly. Can the pair put aside their past to focus on the job, or will their attraction for one another finally boil over?

Eeeppp! Ford and Sydney were so much fun to read! Everly is such a funny little kid, always making me laugh. The Daltons series has been a favorite read of mine from Mari and I hope to get more. Ford and Sydney were fire together, but a fire that burned so sweetly! Who doesn’t think about the Single Dad and the Nanny together lol

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
The Lawyer
The Billionaire

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sarah

Best-selling Author Marni Mann knew she was going to be a writer since middle school. While other girls her age were daydreaming about teenage pop stars, Mann was fantasizing about penning her first novel. She crafts sexy, titillating stories that weave together her love of darkness, mystery, passion, and human emotion. A New Englander at heart, she now lives in Sarasota, Florida with her husband and their two dogs who subsequently have been characters in her books. When she’s not nose deep in her laptop working on her next novel, she’s scouring for chocolate, sipping wine, traveling to new locations, and devouring fabulous books.

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

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The Lost by Jeffrey B. Burton – a Review

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The Lost by Jeffrey B. Burton – a Review

 

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Description:
Glencoe, Illinois: A home invasion turned kidnapping at the mansion of billionaire financier Kenneth J. Druckman brings Mason “Mace” Reid and his cadaver dog, Vira, to this wealthy northern suburb of Chicago. Druckman was assaulted, left behind while his wife and young daughter were taken for ransom.

Brought to the scene by the FBI, Reid specializes in human remains detection, and Vira is the star of his pack of cadaver dogs he’s dubbed The Finders. After Vira finds the dead body of the mother, former supermodel Calley Kurtz, everyone is on high alert to find Druckman’s missing daughter before the five-year-old disappears forever. But the trail Vira finds on the property’s dense woodlands leads right back to Druckman himself.

With the help of Detective Kippy Gimm, Reid and Vira must race against the clock. Nothing is as it appears to be . . . and the red herrings could be lethal.

 

Review:

The Lost by Jeffrey B Burton is the 3rd book in his Mace Reid K-9 Mystery series. Refresher:  Mace Reid, our hero, trains dogs (cadaver dogs) that can hunt for dead bodies. He works with the police, and Vira, one of his amazing dogs (Sue, Maggie, Delta and Bill), has unique abilities to sense things besides dead bodies, such as a slight paranormal element of sensing the murderer.

Mace receives a call from Special Agent Len Squires to bring Vira to the home of Billionaire Financier Kenneth Druckman, who was assaulted and his wife and daughter have been kidnapped.  A ransom has been demanded, with Mace and Vira assigned to trek on the extensive grounds around the mansion.  Vira finds the dead body of the wife, but the daughter is still missing; however, Vira finds the trail leads back to the Druckman’s estate.  Unable to prove to Squires, Mace now suspects the husband had a hand in killing his wife.

Kippy Grimm, our heroine and Mace’s girlfriend, is a homicide detective, and starts to work close with Mace and Vira to investigate Druckman and his Russian mob connections.  What follows is a wonderful exciting, tense thriller, with non-stop action, edge of your seat suspense, and a few twists along the way, Things will escalate when Mace and Kippy searching for the daughter and Vira (who is protecting the girl), find themselves in intense danger. 

The Lost was intriguing and tense, with a complex tale of kidnapping, murder, and the Russian mob. To tell too much more would be spoilers, and this is the kind of book you need to read to understand.  Mace continues to be a wonderful hero, as well as Kippy, who is tough,savvy and strong. Not to mention Vira, who remains the star of this series, being an amazing dog.

The Lost was another great addition to this series, and very well written by Jeffrey B. Burton.  If you enjoy murder mystery thrillers, with great characters and wonderful specialized cadaver dogs, you need to read this book.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

 

 

 

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Dog Friendly by Victoria Schade – a Review

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Dog Friendly by Victoria Schade – a Review

 

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Description:
A burned-out veterinarian takes a much-needed beach vacation, where a charming surfer makes waves in her love life, and a unique foster pup renews her passion for her work.

Exhausted veterinarian Morgan Pearce is feeling overworked and under-thanked, so when two favorite clients ask her to watch their special needs senior dog in their Nantucket home, she jumps at the chance for a summer break. She hopes her time on the island will be a reset from the stress of her everyday life, but her chill vacation vibe takes a hit when she gets roped into fostering a challenging, anxious dog and helping plan the local rescue group’s glittery annual fundraiser.

Her trip starts to feel more like a vacation when Morgan begins falling for Nathan Keating, an irresistible entrepreneur who thinks every problem can be solved on a surfboard. Just as the summer is shaping up to be the magical refresh she needs, thanks to a fling that feels like the beginning of something real and Hudson, the foster dog who reminds her how much she loves her job, a visit from her estranged brother and the discovery of who Nathan really is changes everything. Morgan finds herself at a crossroads, trying to determine if mistakes from the past must define the future, or if she should forgive, forget, and grab hold of a chance to finally rescue herself.

 

Review:

Dog Friendly by Victoria Schade is a cute fun romance, with adorable dogs.  Morgan Pearce, our heroine, is a veterinarian, who is overworked and somewhat burned out, and when she faints on the job, she knows she needs to take a break.  I was surprised to learn that many Veterinarians have a high rate of suicide, due to the stress and pressor that takes a mental toll. 

Morgan loves dogs, and when one of her customers offer her a chance to spend a few months at Nantucket, while they are away, to watch over their dog, Bernadette; she accepts. Other then the people offered her the chance to get a good vacation, Morgan hides that she is a veterinarian, and claims only to babysitting the dog.  Bernadette was a sweet lovable dog, which was easy for Morgan. But she is asked to foster a challenging and anxious dog, as well as help with the local rescue group’s annual fundraiser. Morgan is happy and content in beautiful Nantucket, allowing herself to relax and enjoy the friends she has met, as well as both dogs she is taking care of; and now she finds herself meeting hot hunk.

Nathan Keating, our hero, has been pushing his new flavored drinks, which he hopes will escalate into a successful business; he is also very friendly with everyone in town.   is the gorgeous guy who is friendly to all. He meets Morgan, and in a short time a slow build romance begins, with them spending a lot of time together, as well as him training Morgan how to surf. 

What follows is a lighthearted, fun, enjoyable story, which also deals with stress, burnout & mental health. This book does give us a look at the harshness of the veterinary profession.  I really liked Morgan and Nathan, and hoped they could get past some personal issues to stay together.  I will say I absolutely loved the dogs, especially Bernadette and Hudson, who Morgan slowly trained her to overcome his fears.  

Dog Friendly was a very good story line, with a great couple, wonderful fun dogs, and so very well written by Victoria Schade.  This was a charming read, that kept me unable to put the book down.  I suggest you read Dog Friendly.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

 

 

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PETRA’S BIKERS (RBMC: Reno, NV #5) by Misty Walker -Review Tour

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PETRA’S BIKERS (RBMC: Reno, NV #5) by Misty Walker -review tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 28, 2022

I thought I had nothing left to give.
It took two dirty bikers to prove me wrong.
Cameron Bixby was in her third year of residency at UMC of Southern Nevada when her entire world was stripped from her.
She was given a new name, Petra, and for two years, she was made the property of the worst kind of men who abused her until she was nothing but an empty shell.
Then the Royal Bastards MC stepped in and saved her.
Sly, club treasurer and resident hacker, and Moto, road captain and gearhead, were tasked with finding out who she was and what they should do with her.
The woman was skittish, fragile, and addicted to God knows what, so luring information from her took… unique tactics.
But as they coax her to health, they realize she’s so much more than the timid dove they rescued.
She’s strong, intelligent, and sexy as hell.
Suddenly, they aren’t sure if making her remember is the best idea.
Because Petra belongs in the world of an MC, but Cameron Bixby doesn’t.

•••••••

REVIEW: PETRA’S BIKERS is the fifth instalment in Misty Walker’s contemporary, adult RBMC: Reno NV dark, erotic, MC romance series. This is thirty-one year old, medical resident Dr. Cameron ‘Petra’ ‘Dove’ Bixby, thirty-four year old, Mark ‘Moto’ Watanabe and thirty-seven year old, Chris ‘Sly’ Buckley,’s story line. PETRA’S BIKERS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

WARNING: Due to the nature of the story line premise including rape, sexual assault and graphic violence, as well as MMF, MM, MFM sexual situations, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from three first person perspectives (Dove, Sly, Moto), following two time lines, PETRA’S BIKERS focuses on the menage relationship between Dove, Sly and Moto, as well as the take down of sexual trafficking ring working in the Las Vegas area. Four years earlier, Cameron Bixby, and her best friend / co-worker Mia Garcia were abducted and sold into sexual slavery. Fast forward to present day, upon her rescue, Cameron, who now goes by Petra, has no memory of the time before imprisonment, including her name, her family or her prior life. Healing and recovering with the RBMC, the group of men who saved her life, Petra aka Dove would find herself falling for Moto and Sly, the two men who would claim Petra as their own. But safety was a matter of perception when the past resurfaces, threatening Cameron’s sense of well-being and home. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Petra, Sly and Moto, and the potential fall-out as the past demands Petra in return for another life; and Petra reunites with her family, threatening any permanency with the men that she loves.

The relationship between Petra, Sly and Moto is a reverse harem; an MMF, MFM, MM sexual relationship in which both Sly and Moto will equally claim our heroine as their own but guilt is ever present in the face of lives lost, and Petra’s missing friend, a friend who may or may not be alive or well. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense.

Once again, there is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including many of whom we have me in previous story lines. We are introduced to Cameron aka Petra’s best friend Mia; Petra’s mothers Savannah and Lori, as well as exotic dancer Roxy. The requisite evil has many faces.

PETRA’S BIKERS is a dark, raw, gritty and dramatic story of abduction and trafficking, power and control, search and rescue, recovery and love. The premise is harsh and intense; the romance is seductive and provocative; the characters are broken, healing, captivating and determined.

Previous Reviews and Reading Order
Birdie’s Biker
Truly’s Biker
Bexley’s Biker
Riley’s Biker

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Misty Walker is a USA Today Best-Selling contemporary romance author with books in multiple subgenres including, age-gap, forbidden, biker, and gay.

​She’s been in the book and audiobook industry for many years, though she’s only been publishing since 2019.

​Misty currently resides in the high desert of Reno, NV with her husband and two daughters. She enjoys camping in her comfy travel trailer, reading, and writing.

FOLLOW: Website / Goodreads / Facebook/ Twitter/ TikTok / Instagram / Pinterest

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Harmony of Fire by Brian Feehan-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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Harmony of Fire by Brian Feehan-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 28, 2022

The We walk among us–beings who existed long before humans ever did, filled with powerful magic. Owen and Alice are both Etherealist, rare humans born with magic and a target for those We that wish to take it from them. At nine years old and against her will, Alice’s soul was tied to one such powerful and evil We. She escaped and was trained as a weapon so she might one day break the bond and safely return home. Owen is a musician who is trying to outrun his past while keeping those around him safe in an increasingly dangerous world. Only through finding each other do either Alice or Owen have a chance of survival.

••••

Sandy’s Review:  HARMONY OF FIRE is the first instalment in Brian Feehan’s contemporary, adult, ALICE AND OWEN urban fantasy, romance series focusing on musician/gatekeeper/Etherialist Owen Brown, and twenty-six year old, Etherialist/ hunter Alice.

SOME BACKGROUND: The We have been around since the dawn of time. With seven levels of power, the We walk among the people of Earth but a war between Heaven and H*ll forced the We to choose sides, be it angel or demon, Heaven or H*ll. Etherialists are humans born with ethereal magic, magic that can be used and abused by someone else.

Told from third person perspective following several time lines HARMONY OF FIRE focuses on twenty-six year old Alice as she hunts down the demon that controls her life. At the age of nine, Alice found herself ‘bonded’ to a man named Kerogen, who was using our heroine as his source for power. As a member of the We, Kerogen is a demon, one of the strongest of his kind, and Kerogen is determined to reclaim that which was lost. Alice is on the run, hunting for the creature that took away her free will but Alice is determined to destroy every demon that crosses her path, or has the unfortunate luck to be caught in her sights. Alice never expected to meet Owen Brown, a man she considers just as evil, but a man who can control the gates between Heaven and H*ll. Trying to prevent further destruction, Alice is imprisoned by Owen and his ‘people’, people who have power unlike anything Alice has seen before. What ensues is the building relationship between Owen and Alice, as Owen’s people make plans to take down the man who has bonded himself to our story line heroine.

We are introduced to a large cast of secondary and supporting characters, many of whom are a part of Owen Brown’s life, a life spent in service protecting the gates to the beyond.

HARMONY OF FIRE is a slow building but detailed, complex and focused story of angels and demons, power and abuse, magic and mayhem, Heaven and H*ll. There is an inordinate amount of ‘info dumping’ as the author’s world building introduces the premise, some of the backstory and details as to the who, how and why. Owen Brown is a man whose darkness pulls at his soul, a need to tread the fine line between good and evil, as our hero performs music to relieve the fire that burns from within.

___________

Barb’s Review:
Harmony of Fire by Brian Feehan is the first book in his Alice & Owen series. The We walk among us, beings who existed long before humans ever did, filled with powerful magic. Owen and Alice, who are the main characters in this story, are Etherealist, rare humans who also have magical abilities.  We meet Alice, whose soul was bonded to an evil We, when she was nine years old; with the help of a priest, Alice was able to escape.  Over the years, she learned how to use her powers, and spends her time to find and kill the man who did this to her; especially since he continues to look for her.

Owen is a musician, who has ability to use his music to reach into the souls of those who listen; he is able to go into the dark roads to heaven and hell.  Owen has a wonderful band of young people (I loved most the members, but especially Clover), he is very protective and loyal too; always leaving where they play, when threats are lurking and hunters are too close.  One of his band members is underage, and needs protection from others, until she is unbonded when she reaches 18 years old.   Owen will take his group to an old friend, where they will be safe; we get to meet some amazing friends of the past, such as Mara, Damon, Cornelius, just to name a few.

Alice, who has become a weapon, enters the bar, where Owen, Mara and others are, and attempts to attack them, thinking they are demons, like the man who forced the bonding on her.  They manage to stop Alice, from her attack, controlling her powers, as they imprison her in the basement, until they can prove to her, they are not demons.  Owen tries to spend time with Alice, to show her how she was taught wrong, and most of the We are good people, who were being killed by Hunters.  In a short time, his attraction to Alice escalates, and slowly she opens up to him, intrigued by his gentle kindness; she too will fall hard for Owen, and learn more about his magical music.  When Mara, Damon and Cornelius explain that they might be able to break the bond, Alice begins to open herself up to other possibilities. 

I will say that early on, the story was a bit slow and confusing, which in first books of fantasy, is usually normal; by the second half it was very exciting and intriguing.  I really loved the chemistry between Owen and Alice.  I also loved most of the secondary characters, as Mara, Damon and Cornelius had amazing powers. To say too much more would be spoilers, as you really need to read this, in order to understand.  Harmony of Fire is very well written by Brian Feehan, and I look forward to the next book, Harmony of Lies.

 

Copies provided by Publisher

Excerpted from Harmony of Fire by Brian Feehan Copyright © 2022 by Brian Feehan. Excerpted by permission of Berkley. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.

 

“Hey, you! Hey you there! Give me the stamp. I need the stamp!”
Warning bells flitted through Owen’s mind as a long, skinny arm wearing a simple black and gold leather watch knocked down hard on top of the bar. The clasp to the watch faced up, veins and tendons in the wrist creating lines and valleys for his eyes to follow.
He is freaking out! The thought hit him and reverberated through Owen’s body like a siren going off. He is freaking out. Is this where it starts?
“I need the stamp? Wait! What are you? What the hell are you? You’re not one of the owners? I don’t care. I need protection. Where is the owner?” His voice was fast, and drove in like a ram’s horns, twisting Owen’s gut.
The stranger’s hand reversed from pressing flat and open into a tightened fist, demanding satisfaction. Owen looked from the fist to the stranger’s face.
A sea of humans enjoying the music, atmosphere, or simply wanting drinks framed the new customer. Air in motion stilled as Owen looked, examined, studied. Owen made mental notes of the creature speaking, in case he ever might have a need to find him again.
Five foot eight, on the thin side, black hair parted to the left, wrinkles around the eyes, oval face, nose slightly long, not overly bulbous. Asian American, most likely. Well dressed, in a gray suit, open-collar white shirt, expensive material. Appearance ruffled, sweat around the rim of his hair.
Blue underglow shading just beneath the right eye, as well as along the right jawline. A level two and very frightened.
One of the creatures before earth. One of the We who had celebrated with God, before their choice between going to war, or staying here… One of the We.
Frightened always means deadly when it comes to the We. He doesn’t know who I am. I have to give him something he can hold on to. Be the bartender.
“Hello, sir. Aurei is one of the owners and she just went to the back. She will be out in a moment, and she can help you with what you are looking for. My name is Owen. How about while you wait, I get you a drink, something cold? You look thirsty.”
A patron to the We’s left spoke up. “Hey, I have been waiting for like ten minutes, and this guy just walks in here and you’re going to help him? This is bull. I have girls waiting on me. I was next.”
“Quiet, you fool!” the level two commanded, striking out by infusing his voice with ethereal energy.
Owen watched the wave of words fan out, slamming hard into the patron who had spoken like a blow to the throat. Instantly the patron’s windpipe closed, but the choking didn’t make a sound. The wave of spoken power rippled past like a stone in a pond, silencing those gathered nearest as well.
The power shattered against Owen’s own protection. Like the itch, the protection was a byproduct of ethereal energy stored within, and Owen had more than most.
I hate level twos. They don’t know their ass from their elbow.
Owen’s right hand moved out to the side, with the message Hold. I have this. A clear sign for both Clover and Jessie, who were looking his way.
The release of power in the air was like a foghorn going off to anyone with ethereal power inside the building.
Using the white cooler, Owen stepped up and in one smooth motion leaped over the bar, one hand touching the thick, polished wood for balance as he slipped himself into the small gap that had formed.
The maneuver created reactions but Owen ignored them all, focusing on the thin We with the specs and the human patron who could no longer breathe.

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Brian Feehan is a 2nd generation author, son to #1 New York Times Bestselling author Christine Feehan. He lives in a small coastal town in Mendocino County Ca with his son and the love of his life Michelle. He loves spending time with family, playing tennis, cooking, reading, and of course writing.

 

 

Brian Feehan’s publisher Berkley Romance is graciously offering a paper copy of HARMONY OF FIRE to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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Red on the River by Christine Feehan-Dual Review & Giveaway

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Red on the River by Christine Feehan-Dual Review & Giveaway

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 28, 2022

Vienna Mortenson isn’t your typical gambler. She prefers to stay under the radar, using her poker winnings to support her family and her community, including the local search and rescue team, which she heads up. Out in the backcountry there’s no time for hesitation when lives are on the line. Vienna prides herself on being tough and decisive. She’s not the sort to make a fool of herself over a guy, especially one who left her high and dry without a backward glance.

Zale Vizzini’s job constantly puts him in harm’s way. Working undercover and disappearing for months at a time isn’t exactly a recipe for a stable relationship. Despite the challenges and the risks, Zale wants something real with Vienna. He just needed time to figure out how to be in her life without putting her in danger. Now, he’s determined to win her back, and he’s ready to lay all his cards on the table.

As their friends’ wedding approaches, Zale takes advantage of the festivities to make a play for Vienna’s heart. But there are more deadly forces waiting to strike in the rugged terrain of Nevada and the western Sierras. Soon both of their lives are threatened, and the odds are stacked against them.

•••••

Sandy’s Review: RED ON THE RIVER is a contemporary, adult, slightly paranormal, romantic thriller set in the author’s MURDER AT SUNRISE LAKE world. This is professional poker player/surgical nurse Vienna Mortenson, and undercover operative Zale Vizzini’s story line. RED ON THE RIVER can be read as a stand-alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. Vienna Mortenson was first introduced in book one.

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

Told from third person perspective RED ON THE RIVER follows the second chance relationship between professional poker player/surgical nurse Vienna Mortenson, and undercover operative Zale Vizzini. Months earlier, a serial killer targeted Stella Harrison (Murder at Sunrise Lake), and in their wake threatened Stella and her close-knit friends including our heroine Vienna Mortenson. Taking some time for herself in the aftermath of the life-threatening events , Vienna would set out on an outdoor adventure where she would meet one of their rescuers, undercover operative Zale Vizzini. Six weeks together ended when Zale ghosted our story line heroine, leaving a heart broken Vienna in his wake. Fast forward to present day, wherein an invitation to a Las Vegas Poker Tournament brings Vienna up close and personal with the man who broke her heart, a man whose secrets may push Vienna out of his life.

All was not well in Las Vegas, Nevada; two undercover operatives were missing and presumed dead, and Zale and his partner Rainier claimed to have been hired to protect the hotel owner Daniel Wallin, but someone has targeted our story line heroine in the process, leaving Vienna exposed and unaware of what happened. Vienna Mortenson would find herself under the protection of Zale Vizzini, protection that would pull our couple together even though Vienna struggled with events from the past. What ensues is the rebuilding relationship between Zale and Vienna, and the potential fall-out as secrets are revealed, a contract needs to be fulfilled, placing a target on the back of our story line heroine.

The relationship between Zale and Vienna is a rekindling romance. Zale had previously ghosted Vienna following a six week whirlwind romance in which Vienna found herself falling for a man whose lifestyle was constantly on the move.Vienna’s past was mired in rejection and loss, and in this, our heroine struggled to trust the man who walked away without looking back. There are no $ex scenes.

We are re-introduced to a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including a few ‘Mafia’ members that may or may not have a future story line: Zale’s partner Rainier, operatives Rush, and Wilder; Stella and Sam (Murder at Sunrise Lake); nurse/photographer Harlow Frye; café owner Shabina Foster; computer IT expert and contracted government employee Raine O’Mallory; nurse Zahra Metcalf; Sam Rossi’s father Don Marco Rossi; and hotel owner Daniel Wallin. The requisite evil has many faces.

RED ON THE RIVER is another complex, detailed and informative story line often over-focusing on poker, poker play, and card combinations, as well as an exhaustive account of hiking, and mountain climbing. As per Christine Feehan’s style of writing, there is a slight paranormal aspect to the series but the author steers clear of any erotic $ex scenes or the use of strong language.

A side note- the author’s use of the paranormal aspect is virtually nil in the story, and in this, I believe the story line and series would benefit without the supernatural element.

________

Barb’s Review:
Red on the River by Christine Feehan is another one of her of suspense novels. We got to see some of the characters from her Sunrise Lake series.  We meet Vienna Mortenson, our heroine, who is in Vegas, participating in a live high stakes Poker tournament; she usually only plays online and rarely loses, but having received an invitation to this tournament, Vienna plans to win. She is one of the best in playing poker, but she also is a nurse, as well as helping in Search and Rescue. Vienna is helping prepare her best friend, Stella’s upcoming wedding, and this trip is also a bachelorette gathering with a wonderful group of ladies, who love hiking and bouldering. Vienna also wants to repair her relationship with her mother, while in Vegas. 

Zale Vizzini, our hero, works undercover on assignment to protect his boss; and is constantly in the middle of danger.  He met Vienna months ago, with both falling hard for each other, as they spend weeks together; but one morning he just quietly walked out of her life.  Now Zale is Vegas on assignment, and determined to win her back.  When Zale tries to explain that he left to keep her safe, as his job was dangerous, but he now wants to her back permanently.   Vienna feels her attraction to Zale awaken, but can she trust him?

The tournament was a huge success for Vienna, but threats are made on her life, and Zale knows he needs to protect her from an enemy.  At this point of the story, the focus is on Vienna, Stella, and the other magnificent ladies who are part of the bachelorette trip, which takes place in rugged territory in Nevada and the Sierras, as they hike and climb.  We get to meet all the ladies, and enjoy their friendship, and bantering. I loved how each of the ladies excel at many things, making them a wonderful group.  Not long after they continue on their trek, their lives are put in intense danger, with threats against them; Zale and his partner Rainer push to help the ladies. 

What follows an exciting suspenseful mystery romance, with both Vienna, Zale and her wonderful smart ladies working together to try to find who is truly behind the attempt to kill Vienna and why.   As I had already noted, what made this a fantastic story was the amazing fabulous group of friends who were all smart, strong and savvy, as their friendship was bonded together (Vienna, Stella, Raine, Zahra, Shabina, Harlow).  I did like Vienna and Zale and rooted for them to stay together, as they made a great couple.  I do see a possible relationship with Rainer and Shabina in future books.

Red on the River was an excellent, fun and exciting romance suspense thriller, that was filled with action, suspense, as well as the fun bantering with the ladies.  Overall, this was a great story, with a terrific couple, fantastic friends and other secondary characters. I look forward to the next book in this series, which is so very well written by Christine Feehan. 

 

Copies supplied by the publisher

 

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

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Christine’s Feehan’s publisher Berkley Romance is graciously offering a paper copy of RED ON THE RIVER to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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