Monthly Archives: July 2022

THE LIFE SHE HAD by KL Armstrong -a review

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THE LIFE SHE HAD by KL Armstrong-a review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 19, 2022

If someone was threatening your home, how far would you go to protect it?

Celeste Turner has a woman living in her shed. A woman who is definitely not supposed to be there. The local police, however, are ill-inclined to help. Celeste is a newcomer to a region of rural Florida. It doesn’t matter that her family is originally from the area or that she returned to nurse her dying grandmother. All the locals see is a city girl who swooped in to secure her inheritance . . . a rundown house in need of extensive repairs. Celeste needs her new life to work, and this woman is a threat to that.

Then she meets her. To her surprise, she finds out that Daisy is polite and friendly; a backpacker who is just making her way through the area. Quickly, Celeste begins an unlikely and beneficial friendship with Daisy–she can’t help herself and, besides, Daisy will be moving on to her next stop soon. Why not take advantage of the extra help?

Both women have secrets they want to keep buried, and when a body is discovered in the glades near Celeste’s house, they must move quickly to prove their innocence and protect the lives they’ve built for themselves.

••••••

REVIEW: THE LIFE SHE HAD by KL Armstrong (aka Kelley Armstrong) is a contemporary, adult, suspense thriller focusing on four people in a swampy, rural area of Florida: Celeste Turner, Daisy, mechanic Tom Lowe and attorney Liam Garey.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Celeste and Daisy) THE LIFE SHE HAD is a story of secrets and lies, mystery and suspense in the wake of the death of Celeste’s beloved grandmother Maeve Turner. Living alone on Maeve’s property, Celeste will discover a young woman living on her grandmother’s property, a young woman who knows more than anyone could have imagined. As Daisy and Tom’s lives begin to implode, Celeste discovers Daisy and Tom’s secrets but not before Daisy and Tom reveal Celeste’s own secrets and lies. A local legend that crosses the line between myth and reality brings four people together but not everyone will survive when the truth is revealed. As the story line unfolds, the twisted truth and hidden clues reveal the true depth of greed, obsession, secrets and lies.

KL Armstrong pulls the reader into a slow building, intense, dramatic, and impassioned story of desperation and delusion, family and friendships, murder and suspense, preoccupation and love.

Copy supplied for Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Fae’s Prisoner/Fae’s Claimed (Wicked Fae) by Melody Raven-reviews

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FAE’S PRISONER / FAE’S CLAIMED (Wicked Fae 1 & 2) by Melody Raven-reviews

FAE’S PRISONER
Wicked Fae 1
Genre: Adult, paranormal, erotic, romance

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 11, 2022

The Unseelie Court is getting a fresh shipment of virgins… Will these women be able to withstand the wickedest fae’s tempting ways?

Kier
I requested beautiful virgins. Meek, mild females to save our kingdom from destruction. What I got was a firebird who would rather burn to herself down with the entire palace rather than surrender.

I’m the right hand to the Unseelie Fae king. If anyone can tame her wild ways, it’s going to be me. And I never expected to enjoy pulling my firebird into my wicked ways quite as much as I am…

Mia
I call him Snake Eyes. Hypnotizing. Deceitful. And number one on my hit list.

Because one way or another, I’m going to escape these crazy men who think they can control me. If Kier threatened me with violence or death, I could handle him. But he works in tricks and deals. His promises lead to nights so sweet that even my own body starts to betray me.

But my time is limited. The fae king will be ordering more human women any day now and a dark witch will help me but only if I offer myself over to a different type of darkness altogether.

Can I give up on going home if that means letting Snake Eyes win? And will Kier even want a firebird if she is caged?

•••••

REVIEW: FAE’S PRISONER is the first instalment in Melody Raven’s adult WICKED FAE erotic, paranormal romance series. This is twenty-eight year old human female Mia, and Unseelie Fae General Kier’s story line.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Mia and Kier) FAE’S PRISONER follows in the aftermath of the abduction of several human females, all virgins, who were selected as mates for a number of Dark Fae warriors. In a war between the Dark and the Light, the Light killed most of the women and children, and in the ensuing aftermath, the Dark Fae were slowly dying out. In an attempt to repopulate the Dark Fae species, the Unseelie began a series of human abduction, in an effort to see if the matings will work. Enter twenty-eight year old human female Mia, and Unseelie Fae General Kier.

From the outset, Mia was never intended for our story line hero but Mia is a strong, independent and aggressive human female, perfect for the General of the Unseelie Fae. Mia has no desire to remain beyond the portal, and when approached by a mysterious stranger with a proposition, Mia regrets accepting, knowing she may lose the man with whom she is falling in love. What ensues is the building but acrimonious relationship betweenMia and Kier, and the potential fall-out as Kier’s life hangs in the balance when Mia makes a deal she cannot fathom.

The relationship between Mia and Kier begins acrimoniously as Mia and her ‘friends’ are a victim of a kidnapping. The Dark Fae are desperate to replenish their population, most of the males are without relationships or love. As Kier begins to fall for his feisty human female, Mia continues to struggles between head and heart knowing that to give means to lose the ongoing battle. The $ex scenes are passionate and aggressive but I dislike the use of a certain four-letter word in my romance story lines.

We are introduced to human females Grace and Sienna; Dark Fae warrior Elron; their King Jaiden; witch Melusine, and the demidragon Thrax. King Jaiden’s story line is next in FAE’S CLAIMED.

FAE’S PRISONER is a character driven, fast paced story of desperation and betrayal, magic and murder, acceptance and love . The premise is enchanting and edgy ; the characters are animated, spirited and stubborn; the romance is seductive and intense.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

______

FAE’S CLAIMED
Wicked Fae 2
Genre: Adult, paranormal, erotic, romance

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 13, 2022

Raina

I’ve been taken. He calls himself a king. A mythical being from another world. I’m an academic. There’s no way he’s sane. There’s no way he’s telling the truth.

But when he calls vines to burst out of the concrete and drag me towards him, I’m rapidly converted into a believer.

King Jaiden

If you want something done, you’ve got to do it yourself. That’s how I found myself on the mortal realm looking for the perfect queen. The silly mortal female I find has the nerve to say no to me.

Does she not realize I’m royalty? No matter. With a flick of my wrist I can make her come with me and a twist of my tongue I have her making deals she’ll never understand the repercussions of.

But the Seelie have learned of our plans with the human females and even my own people have started rumbles of dissent. Can I promise Raina’s safety when my own kind are the most dangerous threat?

I came to the Mortal Realm so I could find a queen I wouldn’t care about. One who wouldn’t be a weakness. My plans have backfired.

Because Raina might be the undoing of an entire kingdom if I can’t keep myself from falling under her spell.

And the Unseelie King is never weak. Not for anyone. And definately not for love…

••••

REVIEW: FAE’S CLAIMED is the second instalment and novella in Melody Raven’s contemporary, adult WICKED FAE erotic, fantasy/paranormal romance series. This is the Unseelie King/Dark Fae Jaiden, and human female, physics professor Raina’s story line. FAE’S CLAIMED can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

SOME BACKGROUND: In a war between the Dark and the Light Fae, the Light have been accused of killing most of the Dark Fae women and children,and in the ensuing aftermath, the Dark Fae were slowly dying out. In an attempt to repopulate the Dark Fae species, the Unseelie began a series of human abduction, in an effort to see if the matings will work.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Raina and Jaiden) FAE’S CLAIMED once again, follows in the aftermath of the abduction of three human females. King Jaiden is desperate for a mate, and having witnessed the more or less successful relationships of original three matings, Jaiden, along with generals Xian, Wolfe and Radien, enter a portal where upon Jaiden would go in search of a mate, eventually coming face to face with our story line heroine but the Unseelie have ventured too far from home, and Raina finds herself the captive of the Light Fae / Seelie King Saren. As desperation to locate his unclaimed mate forces Jaiden to compromise for her safety, he will quickly discover that Raina is not without some ideas of her own. What ensues is the building relationship between Jaiden and Raina, and the potential fall-out as many of the Fae struggle with the existence and appearance of the human females; and the Seelie are in need of mates for themselves.

The relationship between Raina and Jaiden begins acrimoniously as Jaiden knows immediately that he wants to claim Raina as his own but Raina is an academic; an intelligent, independent and take no prisoners type of woman but a woman who is slowly falling for our story line hero.Jaiden is desperate to claim Raina as his mate but with a target on their backs, Raina and Jaiden find themselves on the defensive as our heroine finds herself a pawn between warring Fae. The $ex scenes are intimate but I dislike the use of a certain four letter word in my romance story line.

We are introduced to Light Fae/Seelie King Saren, as well as the return of Mia and Kier (FAE’S Prisoner), Wolfe, Radien and Xian.

FAE’S CLAIMED is another fast paced, character driven story of desperation, betrayal and vengeance; power and control, magic and acceptance. the premise is captivating; the romance is provocative; the characters spirted and energetic.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Happy Death Day (Lilah Love 7) by Lisa Renee Jones-review tour

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Happy Death Day (Lilah Love 7) by Lisa Renee Jones-review tour

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 26, 2022

Lilah is back home after two weeks away from the big, bad beast that is New York City, and with Kane by her side. The minute the chopper touches down, her phone rings. It’s a local medical examiner who has been stalking her online, but then, she soon learns, so is half the city.

Seems an online forum has popped up to follow Lilah, her serial killer mentor, and her drug lord husband. Call Lilah irritated as Kane is no drug lord, despite the cartel’s wishes that he follow in his father’s footsteps, her mentor is dead, and no one knows but those who buried the body. She needs the attention to go away, and now.

The worst part, or maybe it’s the best is there’s yet another serial killer on the loose who’s mimicking horror movie killers. Now Lilah has someone to take her anger out on, and arrest, not kill, because good girls don’t kill. But then, who said Lilah was a good girl?

Happy Death Day is book seven in the Lilah Love series.

•••••••

REVIEW:HAPPY DEATH DAY is the seventh instalment in Lisa Renee Jones’ contemporary adult LILAH LOVE romantic suspense series focusing on FBI Agent Lilah Love.

Told from first person perspective (Lilah Love) HAPPY DEATH DAY follows independent and feisty FBI Agent Lilah Love on her return from a two week honeymoon with her husband and businessman /Cartel heir Kane Mendez, a return that sees Lilah investigating a potential serial killer who may or may not have connections to our story line heroine. Four dead bodies, apparently all victims of a possible HMC (Horror Movie Copycat), and several with a connection to a small coffee shop our heroine loves to frequent. As Lilah and her ‘team’ start their investigation, Lilah’s father’s run for governor pulls Kane, Lilah and her brother Andrew into a political fight with damning ramifications, a fight where the Love dysfunctional family dynamics is anything but loving and kind. As the race for Governor becomes dangerous and dark, Lilah eyes the characters put into play, wondering who is really in charge.

Meanwhile, Kane begins to hint that Lilah’s boss and FBI Director Murphy isn’t all who he appears to be forcing Lilah to reconsider to whom she professes her allegiance and trust. With the help of her cousin Lucas, and an IT whiz known as Tic Tac, Lilah begins to unearth a trail of questionable connections, connections that may be targeting our story line couple.

The secondary and supporting characters include Lilah’s bodyguard Jay, NYPD Chief Houston, FBI Directory Murphy ; Lilah’s brother Andrew, their father Grant Love; and Society member Ted Pocher, whose group is grooming the candidates for higher office. We are introduced to forensics tech Jack Cox.

HAPPY DEATH DAY is a story of betrayal and vengeance, murder and mystery, power and control, love and trust. Kane Mendez refuses to accept that Lilah is no longer the ultimate target, and Lilah knows that even family, blood or otherwise, cannot be trusted when it comes to winner takes all. The fast paced premise is intriguing, and suspenseful; the characters are energetic, charismatic and captivating. HAPPY DEATH DAY ends on a cliffhanger -you have been warned.

READING ORDER and Previous Reviews
Murder Notes
Murder Girl
Love Me Dead
Love Kills
Bloody Vows
Bloody Love

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Haven’t read book one MURDER NOTES? It’s currently FREE

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Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest | Goodreads

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lisa Renee Jones is the author of the highly acclaimed INSIDE OUT series.

In addition to the success of Lisa’s INSIDE OUT series, she has published many successful titles. The TALL, DARK AND DEADLY series and THE SECRET LIFE OF AMY BENSEN series, both spent several months on a combination of the New York Times and USA Today bestselling lists. Lisa is also the author of the bestselling the bestselling DIRTY MONEY and WHITE LIES series. And will be publishing the first book in her Lilah Love suspense series with Amazon Publishing in March 2018.

Prior to publishing Lisa owned multi-state staffing agency that was recognized many times by The Austin Business Journal and also praised by the Dallas Women’s Magazine. In 1998 Lisa was listed as the #7 growing women owned business in Entrepreneur Magazine.

Lisa loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her at www.lisareneejones.com and she is active on Twitter and Facebook daily.

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??Isolate (NOLA Defiance MC 2) by KE Osborn-review tour ??

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?? Isolate (NOLA Defiance MC 2) by KE Osborn-review tour ??

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 27, 2022

She was the girl next door.Then she broke my heart.When she fell for my best friend instead of me.

Unwilling to come between them, I left LA. Found sanctuary in New Orleans with a brotherhood who calmed my storm.

She should have been safe.She was his to protect.The problem is—she should have been mine.And now his mistakes have come back on her.

So when she shows up at the gates of the clubhouse seeking my help, how can I turn her away?
Especially when the trouble is caused by the man we both trusted.
My feelings haven’t changed, only intensified, the tension between us thick.
He deceived us both. So can I now betray him and act on my feelings?

•••••

REVIEW:ISOLATE is the second instalment in KE Osborn’s contemporary, adult NOLA Defiance MC dark, erotic, MC romance series-a spin off from the Houston Defiance MC series. This is twenty three year olds, NOLA Defiance MC vice president Jett aka City, and physical therapist Isabelle ‘Izzy’ Buchanan’s story line. ISOLATE 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 (Izzy and City) ISOLATE follows the childhood friends to lovers relationship between twenty three year olds, NOLA Defiance MC vice president Jett aka City, and physical therapist Isabelle ‘Izzy’ Buchanan. Izzy and Jett have been best friends for as along as they can remember, doing everything together since a very young age but City’s membership with the Defiance MC LA brought Izzy up close and personal with City’s Defiance brother Dice, a brother who quickly fell in love with our story line heroine. Refusing to get between a ‘brother’ and his girl, City requested a transfer to the NOLA Defiance MC, where he battled to forget about the woman he loved. Now the NOLA Defiance MC’s new vice president, City struggles when an injured Izzy Buchanan is at their front door, asking for protection against the man she once loved, a man who has sacrificed her life for a debt owed. Dice is no longer the man they remember but a man whose habits have placed Izzy in the direct line of fire. What ensues is the rebuilding relationship and romance between Izzy and City, and the potential fall-out as Dice demands Izzy’s return placing Izzy once again in the direct line of fire.

The relationship between Izzy and City is a childhood best friends to frenemies to lovers relationship in which Izzy never understood City’s move to NOLA; his reluctance to reveal the truth, or the emotional ties between our leading couple. Not intending to play the two best friends against one another, Izzy not only made a target of City, but Dice’s lifestyle made a target of our story line heroine. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense.

There are a large number of colorful secondary and supporting characters including City’s former best friend Dice (Defiance LA), as well as several members of LA Defiance MC. We are reintroduced to Hurricane and Kaia (Gravitate 1), Kaia’s sister Lani, Felix, IT whiz Raid, Grudge, horticulturalist Maxxy, prospects Grey and Bodhi; Bayou, Hoodoo, Quarter; Hurricane’s step-siblings social worker Novah Harrington, and investor Nash Harrington, as well as club girl Frankie. The requisite evil has many faces with the return of the Novikov Russian Bratva, and loan shark/businessman Gambit. Nash’s story line can be read in Hostile Hearts.

ISOLATE is a story of betrayal and vengeance, power and control, addiction and desperation, acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is gritty and heart breaking; the romance is erotic and seductive; the characters are energetic, charismatic, and captivating.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one GRAVITATE

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

Website / Instagram / Twitter/Facebook / Goodreads / Bookbub / Amazon Author Page/ Newsletter /

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Sudden Impact (Crimson Point Protectors) by Kaylea Cross-a review

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Sudden Impact (Crimson Point Protectors 3) by Kaylea Cross-Review & Excerpt

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 26, 2022

She won’t let him in.

Psychologist Mia Ramos is over dating—especially players like the tall, dark and sexy Asher. He’s all wrong for her, and getting involved with him will only end in heartbreak. Yet she can’t stop wanting him, and every time he shows her another glimpse of the real man beneath the slick front he shows the rest of the world, it hooks her more. She’s determined to keep her distance—until disaster hits. Everything changes in an instant, forcing her to rely on the man who tempts her to break her own rules. A ruthless killer wants her dead, and Asher is the only one who can save her.

He can’t let her go.

Air National Guard Pararescueman Asher “Groz” Grozinski knows all about keeping secrets, and he can tell that sexy, confident Mia has some of her own. She also seems completely unaffected by him, which delivers a swift kick to his ego—and intrigues him more. What starts out as a challenge soon turns into something so deep and intense, he can’t walk away. Because beneath that aloof exterior she has a bigger heart than anyone he’s ever met. Now he’s in uncharted territory, falling hard for the first time in his life and ready to do whatever it takes to claim her for his own. So when an unseen killer strikes, he’ll risk everything to protect the only woman he’s ever given his heart to.

•••••

REVIEW:SUDDEN IMPACT is the third instalment in Kaylea Cross’ contemporary, adult CRIMSON POINT PROTECTORS romantic suspense series-a spin off from the author’s Crimson Point series. This is firefighter/National Guard Pararescueman Asher ‘Groz’ Grozinski, and psychologist Dr. Mia Ramos’ story line. SUDDEN IMPACT can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Several characters from the original Crimson Point series cross over between series.

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

Told from third person perspective, as well as first person (killer) SUDDEN IMPACT follows the building but acrimonious relationship between firefighter/National Guard Pararescuerman Asher ‘Groz’ Grozinski, and psychologist Dr. Mia Ramos. Asher Grozinski doesn’t do relationships, and his reputation as a player precedes his introduction to our story line heroine but Asher is determined to make a play for our storyline heroine, even though Mia continues to be always on guard. Mia Ramos knows what it is like to have loved and lost, and in the ensuing time struggles to trust including the man that calls to heart. After a couple of harrowing and heart breaking weeks at work for Mia, Asher offers Mia a weekend away, a weekend that barely begins when a disaster sweeps away our story line heroine. Rescuing Mia is all Asher can think about but waiting in the wings, someone else is hoping to take away it all. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Asher and Mia, and the potential fall-out as Mia’s past demands reparation seeking revenge for a perceived betrayal and lies.

Asher Grozinski doesn’t want to talk about his past, a past mired in betrayal and hurt but when Mia persists in knowing the truth, Asher is willing to push Mia out of his life in an effort to forget about what happened and why. Mia continues to have issues of trust, and with Asher’s rejection, Mia knows it is time to go into the future alone.

The relationship between Asher and Mia begins acrimoniously. Mia doesn’t trust men, and Asher’s reputation as a one-night stand kind of guy, is something with which Mia wants nothing to do but Asher is persistent, and a few ‘not-dates’ quickly turns into something more. Asher is looking forward to their weekend together but Mia’s past refuses to stop until Mia is no more.the $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

The secondary and supporting characters include Mia’s grandfather Paolo, and Former Delta operator Callum Falconer, as well as Asher’s ‘mother’ Peg; several of Mia’s patients and clients, and a number of victims of a mountain landslide. We are reintroduced to Kerrigan and Travis (Falling Hard 1), Jaia and Brandon (Cornered 2); Tiana and Mac ( Rocky Ground /Crimson Point 4); Ember and Boyd (Dangerous Survivor Crimson Point 7)-the camaraderie between friends is furious and fun. Callum Falconer’s story line is next.

SUDDEN IMPACT is a story of obsession, perceived betrayal, vengeance and madness; acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is intriguing and energetic; the romance is seductive and captivating; the characters are strong, intelligent and determined.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Falling Hard
Cornered

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

“So is that why you won’t go out with me? You think I’m only out for one thing?”

Surprised at his directness, she raised an eyebrow. “Aren’t you?”

His gaze was steady. Measured. Sincere. “I might be open to more if the right person came along.”

She stared at him in astonishment. The look he was giving her, direct and unflinching. Good God, he could not mean her. Her ovaries did an ecstatic little dance in her pelvis. “Mostly it’s because we want completely different things.”

One side of his mouth tipped up. “Sure it’s because you’re not scared?”

She blinked, alarmed by how much she liked him already. “Scared of what?”

“Scared that you might not be able to resist me.”

It should have been the moment she’d been waiting for. Should have proven her theory and won her private bet all at the same time. Instead, the endearing grin he gave her, the slightly self-deprecating humor behind it, disarmed her.

She shook her head at him, unable to fight off the answering smile. Damn him, he was way too smooth and charming. “Your ego needs to be deflated a few PSI before your head explodes.”

“This might surprise you, but some women consider me quite a catch.”

“Yeah, but only if they’re into catch and release.”

His low laugh slid through her, settling right between her legs to start a pulse. “I’m not all bad, Mia.”

Ooh, the way he said her name was too sexy. “No,” she agreed. “And you did save my life earlier on the wall,” she teased.

“I was honored,” he said in a deep, intimate tone that made the pulsing worse. Reminding her of every single instant of what it had felt like being trapped against his body and sliding down it.

She shook her head, as much at herself as him. “You’re bad.”

“Not bad. Experienced though,” he allowed with a nod.

It took everything she had to suppress a ripple of longing, her mind now conjuring up all sorts of dirty thoughts, imagining exactly what all that experience had gained him in terms of sexual skills. And damn the devil for making her do it, but she couldn’t resist baiting him.

“Fortunately, I don’t require anyone’s…experience to get my needs met,” she said.

He cocked an eyebrow, looking intrigued. “Really? Why’s that?”

Time to go. But not before she gave him one lasting parting shot to think about.

She stood and stepped up next to him, leaned down until her lips hovered inches from his ear. His scent teased her, filling her lungs. “Because I have a particular favorite toy with a one-hundred-percent success rate. Guaranteed orgasm every time, no man required,” she murmured, taking a perverse pleasure in the way he suddenly stiffened.

She couldn’t believe she’d said it, but she wasn’t sorry. She enjoyed the hell out of throwing him off his game. “So yeah, I’m all good there.”

Straightening and stepping past him before he could get out a single word, she couldn’t wipe the smile off her face as he twisted in his seat to stare after her. “Thanks for the non-date, Asher. See you around.”

In other news, we just received confirmation last week that Big Weasel will be attending the gorgeous and historic Durham University in the northeast of England this fall to study astrophysics! (He did NOT get that mathematical part of his intellect from me. lol)

We’re thrilled for him. Many tricky steps to be completed before we’ll be able to get him over there in time to start, so please cross your fingers and toes that all goes smoothly. It’s going to be tough to have him living so far away, but what an amazing opportunity this is for him. Plus, I LOVE DURHAM, and the UK in general. Can’t wait to explore more historic sites when we’re there this fall.

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Kaylea Cross writes edge-of-your-seat military romantic suspense. Her work has won many awards and has been nominated for both the Daphne du Maurier and the National Readers’ Choice Awards. A Registered Massage Therapist by trade, Kaylea is also an avid gardener, artist, Civil War buff, Special Ops aficionado, belly dance enthusiast and former nationally-carded softball pitcher. She lives in Vancouver, BC with her husband and family.

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

 

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Quintessentially The One by Aleatha Romig-Review Tour

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Quintessentially (ABCs of Love) The One by Aleatha Romig-Review Tour

 

 

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 28 2022

The ABCs have never been sexier… A secret baby, second-chance, contemporary stand-alone romance

“Representing the most perfect example of quality or class” ~ Quintessential

A trip back to the small Indiana town of Riverbend to finalize my grandmother’s last will and testament throws my world off its axis. I wasn’t prepared to learn the stipulations of her will or that she’d left her beloved mercantile Quintessential Treasures to my college summertime love, Kandace Sheers.

Imagine my greater surprise when I learn about the secret that’s been roaming Riverbend for the last five years. Here are a couple of hints:

She’s five years old.
She has her mother’s silky auburn hair and my golden eyes.
The answer is simple.
I take responsibility for the girl and go back to Chicago where my life awaits.
It turns out, Grandma had other plans because life’s never that simple.

•••••

REVIEW: QUINTESSENTIALLY THE ONE by Aleatha Romig is a stand alone, contemporary, adult, romance story line focusing on twenty-eight year olds, attorney Daxton ‘Dax’ Richards, and single mother/store owner Kandace Sheers.

NOTE: QUINTESSENTIALLY THE ONE by Aleatha Romig is a part of the multi-authored THE ABCs of life series.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Kandace and Dax) QUINTESSENTIALLY THE ONE follows the second chance relationship between childhood best friends and former lovers attorney Daxton ‘Dax’ Richards, and single mother/store owner Kandace Sheers. Kandace Sheers has loved Dax Richards all of her life but Daxton had bigger plans then spending his life in small town Indiana, and after his last visit to Riverbend, Dax never returned leaving behind a heart broken young woman, and the daughter he never knew. Fast forward to present day Daxton Richards returns to Riverbend following the death of his beloved grandmother, a woman who left her business to the only woman Dax has ever loved. Enter Kandace Sheers. What ensues is the rebuilding relationship between Dax and Kandace, and the potential fall-out as Dax’s life continues in Chicago, while Kandace and their daughter’s life remains in Riverbend.

Dax Richards never knew he left a part of himself behind the last time he visited Riverbend Indiana. Most of the small town were protective of our story line heroine, and with Dax’s return everyone stepped in to protect Kandace and her daughter Molly. Molly is a precious five year old who never knew about her father but with Dax’s return, our hero is determined to become a part of their lives.

The relationship between Dax and Kandace is one of second chances; a rekindling romance between two people whose lives went in different directions. Kandace was never able to forget about the man who had stolen her heart; Dax went on with his life, often forgetting what he had left behind. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to Kandace’s best friend and co-worker Chloe; café owner Joyce; Kandace’s brother Jason, and their parents Randy and Bridget, as well as Kandace’s daughter Molly, Dax’s parents, and several small town regulars.

QUINTESSENTIALLY THE ONE is a story of family, secrets, relationships and love. The premise is heart warming and emotional; the romance is tender and seductive; the characters are charismatic and wonderful.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

NEWSLETTER | WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE | GOODREADS
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Aleatha Romig is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author who lives in Indiana, USA. She grew up in Mishawaka, graduated from Indiana University, and is currently living south of Indianapolis. Aleatha has raised three children with her high school sweetheart and husband of over thirty years. Before she became a full-time author, she worked days as a dental hygienist and spent her nights writing. Now, when she’s not imagining mind-blowing twists and turns, she likes to spend her time a with her family and friends. Her other pastimes include reading and creating heroes/anti-heroes who haunt your dreams and bring your imagination to life!

Aleatha released her first novel, CONSEQUENCES, in August of 2011. CONSEQUENCES became a bestselling series with five novels and two companions released from 2011 through 2015. The compelling and epic story of Anthony and Claire Rawlings has graced more than half a million e-readers. Aleatha released the first of her series TALES FROM THE DARK SIDE, INSIDIOUS, in the fall of 2014. These stand alone thrillers continue Aleatha’s twisted style with an increase in heat.

In the fall of 2015, Aleatha moved head first into the world of dark romantic suspense with the release of BETRAYAL, the first of her five novel INFIDELITY series that has taken the reading world by storm. She also began her traditional publishing career with Thomas and Mercer. Her books INTO THE LIGHT and AWAY FROM THE DARK were published through this mystery/thriller publisher in 2016.

In the spring of 2017, Aleatha released her first stand-alone, fun, and sexy romantic comedy with PLUS ONE, followed by the sweet stand-alone, ONE NIGHT.

Aleatha is a “Published Author’s Network” member of the Romance Writers of America and PEN America.  She is represented by Kevan Lyon of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency.

Sign up today to receive her monthly newsletter  and /or text message alerts stay informed.

And if you’re new to ALEATHA, check out her FREE books.

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Wolf Tamer (Moon Kissed 2) by Harper A Brooks-review

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Wolf Tamer (Moon Kissed 2) by Harper A Brooks-review 

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 July 28, 2022

Love is only a distraction, a weakness.

Tasha failed.

Her damn feelings got in the way of doing her job, and now, her coven has marked her for death. To stay alive, she has no choice but to turn to the very person she was meant to kill. Reid.

To make things worse, her witch magic is returning and it’s interfering with her invisibility, something she desperately needs to find out what happened to her sister.

Hiding Tasha among his pack has Reid questioning his hatred for her kind, while pretending to be her mate has him questioning his own sanity. What happens when fake feelings morph into something more? Something real and dangerous?

They’re so close to finding out the secrets behind the Redcliff Pack and the Buson witches—so close—but the truth will not only be painful…

It’ll end up changing everything.

Get swept up in all the action and romance with Wolf Tamer, the second book in the Moon Kissed Series by Harper A. Brooks!

••••••••

REVIEW: Book one definitely needs to be read before opening up book two. And book two starts where book one ended…..

Tasha And Reid are still fighting their attraction for one another. They are still trying to work out who is trying to kill them, and where Tasha’s sister is…..

Returning to Reid was never the plan, but pretending to uphold the plan and kill Reid should buy Tasha some time. Told in both the main characters points of view, we watch as Reid fights for both his life and the leadership of his pack…..We hold our breath as it looks like Tasha will face death at the hands of her witch community. The double dealings will make your head spin and the action scenes leave you breathless.

The book starts at a furious pace, and it doesn’t let up, brilliantly written it draws you in with the chemistry between Tasha and Reid, the mystery as you try to solve who is behind trying to take out Reid and kill Tasha. Witches sent Tasha to kill Reid, but after learning more about Reid and the coven, Tasha is so confused about her feelings to Reid and her duty to the family that took her in.

Reid should hate Tasha, he use to hate witches, still does in fact, but his pact needs their magic to stay hidden from the human world. His family don’t trust her, and his pack hate her, so if he wants to make her his mate then that’s some big bridges to mend.

We also have a few secrets that are beginning to be revealed, are a few witches working with members of Reid’s pack? And if so, why?

And the ending…..What a cliffhanger that was. I’m hoping we don’t have to wait to find out what happens next.

Click HERE for Julie’s review of book one WOLF HUNTER

Copy supplied for review

? Reviewed by Julie B

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

Harper A. Brooks lives in a small town on the New Jersey shore. Even though classic authors have always filled her bookshelves, she finds her writing muse drawn to the dark, magical, and romantic. But when she isn’t creating entire worlds with sexy shifters or legendary love stories, you can find her either with a good cup of coffee in hand or at home snuggling with her furry, four-legged son, Sammy.

She writes urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and reverse harem.

RONE Award Winner

USA TODAY Bestselling Author

International Bestselling Author

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Bayou Sweetheart by Lexi Blake-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway Tour

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Bayou Sweetheart (Butterfly Bayou 5) by Lexi Blake-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway Tour

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 26, 2022

After leaving the military, Major Blanchard moved to Papillon, Louisiana, to be with his aging father, where he’s taken a deputy position with the sheriff’s department. Now that he’s settling into life on the bayou, he’s trying out the dating scene. Every single woman in town seems to be pining after the handsome newcomer. But so far, nothing’s worked out, and he’s had some spectacularly bad dates. Major’s getting ready to give up on love when a new lady roars into town to film a movie and turns his world upside down.

Actress Brynn Pearson is trying to make a successful transition from child star to leading lady. Now that she’s landed her first lead in a major film, nothing can stop her. She’s committed to focusing solely on her work, so romance is the last thing she needs—too bad she can’t get her mind off the dreamy deputy she keeps running into. He’s gorgeous, and something about him makes her feel safe. As Brynn’s feelings for Major deepen, she starts to wonder if maybe there’s more to life than her career.

When a family crisis throws Major’s life into a tailspin, he turns to Brynn for support, and hopes their budding relationship will shine brighter than Hollywood lights.

•••••

REVIEW:BAYOU SWEETHEART is the fifth instalment in Lexi Blake’s contemporary, adult BUTTERFLY BAYOU erotic, romance series focusing on the people who live and work in Papillon, Louisiana. This is thirty-three year old Papillon Deputy Major Blanchard, and twenty –five year old actress Brynn Pearson’s story line. BAYOU SWEETHEART 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 (Brynn and Major) BAYOU SWEETHEART follows the building romance and relationship between thirty-three year old Papillon Deputy Major Blanchard, and twenty –five year old actress Brynn Pearson. Brynn Pearson, her sister Allyson, and their ‘momager’ Diane Pearson, and fellow actor Gavin Jacks are in Papillon, Louisiana in preparation for an upcoming movie, a movie the ‘momager’ is hoping will make Brynn Pearson a star. Brynn has worked in the television industry since she was five years old, and jumping from childhood to adulthood in the world of movie stars meant missing all of the steps in between. Meeting local Papillon Deputy Major Blanchard went viral when our heroine had to rescue said deputy when he got himself and his dog stuck in the Bayou bog. From the outset Brynn and Major’s attraction was instant but Brynn was only in town for a few weeks, and the incoming paparazzi was about to blow up any chance of a relationship when scandal meets reality on the front pages of the news. What ensues is the building but struggling relationship between Brynn and Major, and the potential fall-out as a family emergency pulls Major out of Brynn’s life, and a scandal is about to destroy any hopes of Brynn’s burgeoning jump from child to adult star.

Brynn Pearson has been working since the age of five but work she no longer finds rewarding or fun. Wanting some time to recoup and reconsider the next stage of her life, Brynn considers setting down roots in Papillon Louisiana but Major Blanchard fears disappointment is only a matter of weeks away. Major Blanchard is struggling with family issues of his own but meeting Brynn gave Major hopes for something more but something more is going to have to wait in the wake of a paparazzi nightmare, and an ailing father who is caught between independence and his son.

The relationship between Brynn and Major is one of immediate attraction. As one of the few remaining single men in Papillon Louisiana, Major is has caught the eye of many women including women willing to set them up with somebody’s daughter but Major only has eyes for our story line heroine, a woman he refuses to tie down in Papillon Louisiana. 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 and energetic secondary and supporting characters including many of whom we have me in previous story lines: Armie and Lila (Butterfly Bayou 1); Seraphine Guidry (Bayou Baby 2); Roxanne and Zep Guidry (Butterfly Dreaming 3) as well as the introduction of Brynn’s sister Allyson, their mother Diane; actor and mentor Gavin Jacks; several social pariahs and paparazzi reporters, as well as local gang leader and thief Brian.

BAYOU SWEETHEART is a story of family and relationships, power, control and acceptance ; fame and scandal; purpose and love. The premise is captivating and entertaining; the romance is seductive; the characters are charismatic and charming-there is plenty of witty banter, back and forth between many of the characters.

Reading Order and previous reviews
Butterfly Bayou
Baby Bayou
Bayou Dreaming
Bayou Beauty

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

“Are you still driving Harry’s truck? I only ask so I can have an idea of how many people are going to call the station about the pretty blond car thief.”
Brynn winced. “Sorry. I didn’t think it would be a big deal. And no. Harry had an emergency. Apparently his mother-in-law had some plumbing problems and he went out to help. I called a car service.”
“We have a car service?” Major asked and then winced. “Please tell me Greg Bonham isn’t still trying to make Guber happen.”
She snorted. “Yes. I heard all about his plan to create a fleet of golf carts.”
“That’s not road legal. You are not calling him to take you back.” He groaned, though it sounded like a sexy growl. “I’ll drive you home, and I’ll have a talk with Greg because putting twinkle lights all over a golf cart does not make it safe. So, where’s your buddy this evening?”
“Duke?” She didn’t have another buddy. She had acquaintances. She had coworkers. She had fans. She didn’t have buddies beyond her dog. She suddenly realized how sad that was.
“Yes. I miss his royal disdain.”
“Disdain?”
A brow rose over Major’s eyes. “That dog does not like me. And he didn’t like Dolly, either, which is a mistake on his part because she is delightful.”
Brynn chuckled. “That’s not what you were saying when she was wrapped around your shoulders.”
“Well, we’ve moved on and she’s delightful again. She never met a stranger, and I think she was hurt by Duke’s rejection of her love.”
Oh, this was an infinitely more dangerous man than the one she’d met before. Was he flirting with her? If he was, it was working, because she was ready to throw out everything she’d learned about him earlier in the day. “Duke takes his time warming up to people, but once he gets used to you, you’ll find him delightful, too. He’s back at the B and B. When I’m not able to take him with me, he usually stays with an assistant. In this case, he’s hanging out with Shep. What has you in a good mood? Did you get to ticket a bunch of people?”
He put a hand on his chest. “I do not enjoy ticketing people, Brynn. Especially not people around here. They’re mouthy and very creative in finding an excuse for not using their blinker when they turn. By the way, speaking of ticketing people, you have a lead foot. That is not going to do you well here. The boss is always on the lookout to upgrade the station house’s appliances, and the money from driving offenses goes straight into his budget. He’s got two small children at home now. He wants an espresso machine. He kind of needs it to keep functioning.”
Ah, the joys of small-town life. “Thank you for the warning. How about I gift him one and maybe you gently look the other way?”
That jawline of his straightened, and he turned on his serious stare. “Ma’am, are you trying to bribe an officer of the law?”
That cop voice got to her. She suddenly understood why people role-played. She’d always thought it was dumb, but now she could see how Deputy Major doing a slow search of her body could be sexy. In a playful way, of course. A consenting way.
Was she thinking about hopping into bed with him?

NY Times and USA Today bestselling author Lexi Blake lives in North Texas with her husband, three kids, and the laziest rescue dog in the world. She began writing at a young age, concentrating on plays and journalism. It wasn’t until she started writing romance and urban fantasy that she found the stories of her heart. She likes to find humor in the strangest places and believes in happy endings no matter how odd the couple, threesome, or foursome may seem.

FACEBOOK / TWITTER / WEBSITE / AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE

The Reading Cafe and Lexi Blake’s publisher are offering a paper copy of BAYOU SWEETHEART to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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