Monthly Archives: March 2023

Rocked by Love: Jillian Braden by Melissa Foster-a review

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Rocked by Love: Jillian Braden (A Braden – Bad Boys After Dark Crossover Novel) (The Bradens & Montgomerys: Pleasant Hill – Oak Falls Book 10) by Melissa Foster

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 8, 2023

What happens when a rock star with no plans of settling down finds out he has a teenage daughter, his manager is embezzling from him, and the woman he’s hired to design his tour wardrobe is breathing fire? Come along for the snarky, emotional, and insanely sexy ride as Jillian and Johnny get caught up in a storm that just might be bigger than both of them.

Jillian Braden’s quick, creative thinking and fierce determination have helped her singlehandedly build a fashion empire. She doesn’t mince words and demands respect, but beneath all that armor, she carries the Braden curse of a soft heart. But that soft heart isn’t looking to start a family and doesn’t know the first thing about mollycoddling. When famed rock star Johnny Bad hires her to design his tour wardrobe and then postpones it at the last minute for the third time, she’s had enough. Jillian is determined to set him straight, but she isn’t at all prepared for what she finds or for the type of help Johnny Bad really needs.

•••••

REVIEW:ROCKED BY LOVE: JILLIAN BRADEN is the tenth instalment in Melissa Foster’s contemporary, adult THE BRADENS AND MONTGOMERYS, PLEASANT HILL / OAK FALLS erotic, romance series, a cross over with the author’s Bradens/Bad Boys After Dark series. This is thirty year old fashion designer Jillian Braden, and rock star Johnny Bad’s story line. ROCKED BY LOVE 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 (Jillian and Johnny) ROCKED BY LOVE follows the building romance and relationship between thirty year old fashion designer Jillian Braden and rock star Johnny Bad. Months earlier Jillian Braden was hired by the rock band Bad Intensions to design the costumes for their upcoming tour but the order had been canceled without warning two to three times, and Jillian had had enough. Desperate to uncover the truth, Jillian faces off against lead singer Johnny Bad, only to discover all was not well in Johnny’s life. Johnny’s past has caught up, disrupting his life, a life that is no longer his alone. With the help of Jillian, Johnny must rearrange his life going forward, a life he is hoping will include our story line heroine. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Jillian and Johnny, and the potential fall-out as Jillian’s time with Johnny comes to an end.

Jillian Braden never expected to find herself falling for a rock star, let alone a rock star with a bit of a reputation but Johnny’s life has been turned upside down, and our hero uses the band’s contract with Jillian for emotional support and help with everything going on. The daughter Johnny never knew existed is struggling to find her way, and Jillian finds herself mothering a girl who does not want to be mothered.

The relationship between Jillian and Johnny begins acrimoniously as Jillian is angry that the band’s manager has cancelled a third time but Jillian knows immediately something is wrong when all h*ll breaks lose about a fourteen year old child. Johnny has cancelled his upcoming tour but is struggling to find peace with the daughter he never knew. With Jillian’s help, Johnny becomes both father and mentor, a man who wants something more from our story line heroine. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense.

There is a large and familiar secondary and supporting cast of wonderful characters many of whom we met in the previous series and story line. We are introduced to Johnny’s daughter Zoey, and his siblings Kane, Aria and Harlow, as well as Jillian’s siblings Beau, Jax, Graham, Nick and Zev, and their parents.

ROCKED BY LOVE is a story of family and relationships, a wonderland of Xanadu perfection, an idyllic, almost utopian and heartwarming world where Johnny’s daughter’s acclimation and acceptance in the family is positive, with limited issues or drama, and very few challenges. The premise is fascinating and delightful; the romance is seductive and provocative; the characters are charismatic, charming and captivating.

Reading Order and previous reviews
Embracing Her Heart
Anything For Love
Trails of Love
Wild Crazy Hearts
Making you Mine
Searching for Love
Hot For Love
Sweet Sexy Heart
Then Came Love

Bad Boys After Dark-Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Mick
Dylan
Carson
Brett

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Melissa Foster is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling and award-winning author. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance, new adult romance and women’s fiction with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Readers adore Melissa’s fun, flirty, and sinfully sexy, award-winning big-family romance collection, LOVE IN BLOOM featuring the Snow Sisters, Bradens, Remingtons, Ryders, Seaside Summer, Harborside Nights, Wild Boys and Bad Boys After Dark, and the Montgomerys. Melissa’s emotional journeys are lovingly erotic and always family oriented– perfect beach reads for contemporary romance lovers who enjoy reading about loyal, wealthy heroes and smart, sassy heroines with complex and relatable issues.Melissa also writes sweet and clean romance under the pen name Addison Cole.

Melissa has painted and donated several murals to The Hospital for Sick Children in Washington, DC. Her interests include her family, reading, writing, painting, friends, helping others see the positive side of life, and visiting Cape Cod.

Melissa is available to chat with book clubs and welcomes comments and emails from her readers. Visit Melissa on Facebook or her personal website.

Never miss a brand new release, special promotions or inside gossip again by simply signing up to receive your newsletter from Melissa.

Find Melissa on the following sites….
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NINES’S TIME (Devil’s Riot MC: Tennessee 2) by EC Land-review

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? NINES’S TIME (Devil’s Riot MC: Tennessee 2) by EC Land-a review?

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 5, 2023

Innocence comes in several different ways, for her and for me.
Nines
Accused of something so vile, I’ve got to find a way to prove I’m not the one they’re looking for. I didn’t do it, and they know it. On top of that, she steps into my life, more like stumbles. Time stops with one look at her, and I see the vulnerability in her eyes.

I don’t have it in me to go for what I want, not when I’ve got this hanging over my head. But I can’t let her go either.

She’s mine for the taking. But will she believe me when it comes to the truth?

•••••

REVIEW: NINES’S TIME is the second instalment in EC Land’s contemporary, adult DEVIL’S RIOT MC: TENNESSEE erotic, MC romance series. This is Devil’s Riot MC VP Brick ‘Nines’ Tucker, and boutique owner Meadow’s story line. NINES’S TIME can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

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

Told from four first person perspectives (Nines, Meadow, Nerd and Sniper) using present day and memories from the past, NINES’S TIME follows the building romance and relationship between Devil’s Riot MC VP Brick ‘Nines’ Tucker, and boutique owner Meadow. Meadow is in hiding having escaped the brutal existence that was her earlier life. Meeting Gavril, the head of the Romanian Mafia set Meadow on a path of security and comfort but Meadow never expected to come face to face with the Devil’s Riot MC, a motorcycle club with more connections to her past than she could have ever imagined. Having befriended two of the woman from the Devil’s Riot MC, Meadow is invited to a club BBQ but refuses in the wake of demons from her past until her ‘father’ Gavril makes it his mission to bring Meadow along, a mission where she will come face to face with her future in the guise of Brick ‘Nines’ Tucker. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Brick and Meadow, and the potential fall-out as Meadow’s past returns demanding vengeance and blood for sins of the past.

Brick ‘Nines’ Tucker is currently battling a trumped up charge that found our hero imprisoned for a crime he did not commit. Released on bail, Brick is drawn to the foster daughter of Romanian Mafia boss Gavril, a young woman whose demons run dangerous and dark. Seeing a kindred spirit, Brick makes it his mission to claim Meadow’s heart but quickly discovers that darkness is never far behind.

The relationship between Nines and Meadow is one of immediate attraction but Meadow struggles with memories from the past, memories that refuse to let go. Nines knows that to claim Meadow means to become guardian and protector of a woman so battered and bruised that breaking through may take time.Meadow is willing to give Nines a chance but threats against the club and the people with whom she is falling in love force Meadow to walk away, placing herself in the direct line of fire. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are reintroduced to several members of the Devil’s Riot MC including but not exclusive to: Storm and Blow (Blow’s Smoke 1), Rain, Chelsea, Sniper, Nerd and Cara, Calyx, Scorn, attorney Markus as well as Romanian Mafia leader Gavril; and Meadow’s step-father Johnathan.

NINES’S TIME is a story of betrayal and vengeance, power and control, abuse and torture, acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is dark and gritty; the romance is seductive; the characters are desperate, determined and dynamic.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Cannon (Pittsburgh Titan 6) by Sawyer Bennett-review tour

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Cannon (Pittsburgh Titan 6) by Sawyer Bennett-review tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / Google Play /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 28, 2023

Cannon West left his hockey playing days behind to care for his dying wife but has since found success on the other side of the bench. Now, as the youngest head coach in league history, he’s hoping to lead the Pittsburgh Titans to a winning season. The last thing he’s looking for is a relationship, but life sometimes takes us in another direction.

The Pittsburgh Titans are still working to move on from the tragic plane crash that forever changed the landscape of their organization. Having lost my wife, I know all about grief and the guilt of survival which makes me uniquely equipped to take this team to the next level. From the very first time I stepped inside the Titans’ arena, I knew I was exactly where I needed to be.

New to town, I’m still establishing my routine, but I have the most important aspect under control—the coffee shop where I stop on my way to the arena every morning. A strong cup of java and the gorgeous manager who I can’t help but chat up is quickly becoming my favorite way to start the day. But no matter how much I enjoy the blush that stains Ava Cavanaugh’s cheeks with my admittedly awkward attempt at flirting, I know it will never be more than brazen banter with a new friend. My job consumes almost all my time, and I know firsthand what that level of commitment can do to a relationship.

That doesn’t mean I’m not open to some fun. My career comes first, but Ava understands my boundaries. The only problem is that once I give into her temptation, the rules I set for myself become blurred, and my mixed signals hurt Ava—the one thing I promised I wouldn’t do. I’ve put myself in what seems to be an untenable situation, but I’ve faced those before. Now I need to find the strength to move past my fears, or risk losing my second chance at love with the woman who has stolen my heart.

••••

REVIEW: CANNON. Is the sixth instalment in Sawyer Bennett’s contemporary, adult PITTSBURGH TITANS erotic, hockey romance series. This is Pittsburgh Titans head coach, thirty-six year old, Cannon West, and twenty-seven year old, barista/PR promoter Ava Cavanaugh’s story line. CANNON can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Some of the events of CANNON cross over with, and run parallel to the events of book five Drake.

SOME BACKGROUND: Several months earlier, a devastating plane crashed claimed all but three members of the Pittsburgh Titans hockey team including owners, coaches and staff. Rebuilding the team, owner Brienne Norcross, offered positions to one-time professional and semi-pro players, including our story line hero.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Cannon and Ava) CANNON follows the building romance and relationship between Pittsburgh Titans head coach, thirty-six year old, Cannon West, and twenty-seven year old, barista/PR promoter Ava Cavanaugh. For several weeks Cannon West has been frequenting the small coffee shop near his condo, and finally got up the nerve to talk to barista Ava Cavanaugh. Cannon is a widower, having lost his first wife to cancer, and knows that to get involved with someone else means setting up parameters for a life with a man who spends half his time on the road. Ava Cavanaugh came to Pittsburgh with her former boyfriend but quickly found herself jobless, homeless in the wake of her boyfriend’s workplace affair. Struggling to make ends meet as a barista, Ava is fired when a night spent with Cannon results in her late arrival to open the store. As her relationship with Cannon slowly turns into something more, Ava searches for a job, a job that may take our heroine some place else but Cannon’s past is about to affect his future, and our hero pushes Ava out of his life. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Ava and Cannon, and the potential fall-out as Cannon struggles to let go of the past, and the doubt that lingers behind the grief and guilt.

Cannon West knows the life of a professional hockey player and coach is no life from the people left behind. Going into a relationship with Ava means setting up boundaries and limits, boundaries that Cannon keeps moving to support himself. Ava Cavanaugh is well aware of the possibility of spending most of her time without the man with whom she is falling in love but Ava never expected to love Cannon to a ghost and guilt from the past.

The relationship between Ava and Cannon begins slowly as Cannon takes his time before asking Ava out. Ava has struggled in the months since moving to Pittsburgh, having lost everything in the wake of her boyfriend’s affair. Falling for Cannon was easy; taking on his guilt means moving forward without the man that she loves. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and familiar secondary and supporting characters including several hockey players and their significant others; team owner Brienne Norcross and her boyfriend/ goalie Drake McGinn, as well as both Ava and Cannon’s extended families, and Cannon’s former mother in law Connie.

CANNON is a story of grief and guilt; betrayal and forgiveness; family and friendships, relationships and love. The fast paced premise is intoxicating and inspiring ; the characters are animated, dynamic and spirited; the romance is edgy and intimate. If you are a fan of hockey romance, Sawyer Bennett writes some of the best story lines to keep you entertained and addicted.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

Baden
Stone
Gage
Coen
Drake

Reviewed by Sandy

Copy supplied for review

Since the release of her debut contemporary romance novel, Off Sides, in January 2013, Sawyer Bennett has released more than 30 books and has been featured on both the USA Today and New York Times bestseller lists on multiple occasions.

A reformed trial lawyer from North Carolina, Sawyer uses real life experience to create relatable, sexy stories that appeal to a wide array of readers. From new adult to erotic contemporary romance, Sawyer writes something for just about everyone.

Sawyer likes her Bloody Marys strong, her martinis dirty, and her heroes a combination of the two. When not bringing fictional romance to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to a very active toddler, as well as full-time servant to two adorably naughty dogs. She believes in the good of others, and that a bad day can be cured with a great work-out, cake, or a combination of the two.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | BOOKBUB | AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE | INSTAGRAM

 

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More Than I Could by Adriana Locke-review tour

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More Than I Could by Adriana Locke-review tour

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date FEBRUARY 27, 2023

This grumpy hero makes things hard for the nanny.
You know what? I’m over him.
His moods.
The verbal sparring.
Those biceps that look like they were cut from marble.
Okay, maybe I’m not over him being shirtless.
Chase Marshall is a single dad with a daughter to love, so fighting with me shouldn’t be a priority. But he can’t seem to stay away.
The lingering looks when he thinks I’m not watching.
The seemingly innocent touches while making breakfast.
The smirks gracing his lips after I’m irritated by his antics.
He’s ridiculously sweet to his daughter. I even catch glimpses of how charming he could be to me—if he wanted to.
But that’s the problem. He acts like he doesn’t want to. That he doesn’t want me.
He does. It’s in the innuendos, the way he places his hand in the small of my back—the almost kisses while we’re putting away groceries. The way he comes running when I see a spider and checks on me before he goes to bed. Even if he does grumble about it.
I might not be totally over my boss, but I’m going to make him think I am.
Let’s see how frustrated Mr. Marshall gets now.

•••••

REVIEW: There is nothing like a good grumpy sunshine troupe, and Adriana Locke does it better than most. More Than I Could is a fun, sweet, romance that has the feels, all the spicy and all the best drama. This is a standalone in the Adriana Locke world so read to your heart’s content.

Megan and Chase have quick chemistry and are even quicker to act on it when Megan becomes Chase’ daughters new nanny. Yes, that’s right, it’s the nanny and daddy romance. What’s better is that Chase is a grumpy bear, but with a heart of gold. Little Kennedy is a Daddy’s girl, and Chase, while he struggles, is an amazing father.

The dynamic between Chase and Megan is enjoyable to read, and those moments with the three of them together, well they are enough to give anyone a toothache. Then, on the flip side of the couple they have the funniest back and forth arguing, and wow, even better spicy bits.

Adriana Locke always takes her time with her main character, developing their stories and emotions, but her side characters are also so likable and fun to read. I hope to see Gavin and Kate getting a story as well. If you like a heartwarming story to read during the cold nights, well look no further than More Than I Could.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sarah S

USA Today bestselling author Adriana Locke lives and breathes books. After years of slightly obsessive relationships with the flawed bad boys dreamed up by other authors, she decided to create her own. She is the author of Tumble, the first novel in her Dogwood Lane series; the Exception series; the Gibson Brothers series; and the Landry Family series.

She resides in the Midwest with her husband, her sons, two dogs, two cats, and a bird. She spends a large amount of time playing with her kids, drinking coffee, and cooking. You can find her outside if the weather’s nice, and there’s always a piece of candy in her pocket. Besides cinnamon gummy bears, boxing, and random quotes, her next favorite thing is chatting with readers. She’d love to hear from you! Look for her at www.adrianalocke.com.

Social Media Links

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Goodreads / Amazon Author / Bookbub / Newsletter Sign up /

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TOUCHED BY ICE (Ice Breaker Cold Case 4) by Cynthia Eden-a review

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TOUCHED BY ICE (Ice Breaker Cold Case 4) by Cynthia Eden

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 28, 2023

Cold case. Hot romance.

Aiden Warner has power, fame, and money. What he doesn’t have? Answers. His twin brother vanished when Aiden was a teen, and the mystery has haunted Aiden for years. He will do anything, pay any price, to learn the truth. Luckily for Aiden, there is one woman out there who can help him solve the mystery from his past.

She deals with the dead.

Dr. Antonia “Tony” Rossi has a reputation—she finds the dead. She’s an expert when it comes to discovering remains and identifying the deceased. Someone has to give justice for the missing, and she’s made it her life’s work to be the voice for those who can’t speak. Tony’s a loner by nature, uncomfortable with attention, and definitely not a woman who seeks the spotlight.

He thinks he can buy her. Newsflash, he can’t.

Aiden is used to getting what he wants, and what he wants now? Antonia. He figures he can pay her to do the job, and the case will be closed but…he’s wrong. About her. About himself. From the minute he meets her, Aiden is obsessed. He expected Antonia to be brilliant, but he doesn’t expect the hot surge of desire he feels for her.

Someone will kill to keep the past buried.

But now Aiden’s attention has a killer focused on Antonia, too. Someone who will not allow her to uncover any of his dark secrets. And if he has to, he will bury Antonia so deeply that no one will ever find her again.

It’s not the past that can destroy you. It’s the present.

When Antonia is threatened, Aiden realizes that nothing matters but protecting her. For years, his heart has been locked away, but she’s brought him to life again. He will not lose her. Will he fight for her? With everything he has. Would he kill to protect her? In a heartbeat.

Together, Aiden and Antonia will hunt for the murderer who has been hiding and waiting to strike again. The dead are going to speak, and Antonia will make sure she gives them justice.

•••••

REVIEW: TOUCHED BY ICE is the fourth instalment in Cynthia Eden’s contemporary, adult ICE BREAKER COLD CASE romantic suspense series focusing on the men and women who work for Ice Breakers, an online team of crime solvers whose goal is to solve cold cases. This is forensic anthropologist Dr. Antonia ‘Tony’ Rossi, and thirty-two year old, billionaire casino owner/businessman Aiden Warner’s storyline. TOUCHED BY ICE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

NOTE: For fans of Cynthia Eden, there is a slight cross over with the author’s Wilde Ways series.

Told from third person perspective TOUCHED BY ICE follows the building romance and relationship between forensic anthropologist Dr. Antonia ‘Tony’ Rossi, and thirty-two year old, billionaire casino owner/businessman Aiden Warner in the wake of Aiden hiring our heroine to find his twin brother. Aiden’s twin brother Austin has been missing, and presumed dead, for close to fifteen years, and Aiden has been desperate to uncover the truth. Dr. Rossi’s reputation for ‘finding’ the dead has drawn Aiden to the woman with whom he will fall in love but Tony isn’t interested in taking on any more cases until Aiden reveals he knows more about Tony than she could have ever imagined. Tony will agree to help locate Aiden’s missing brother but all does not go well when our couple are targeted the closer they get to uncovering the truth. What ensues is the building relationship between Tony and Aiden, and the potential fall-out as Tony begins to suspect everyone in Aiden’s life, including the man, himself.

Aiden Warner lost everything the day his twin brother Austin went missing but the amount of blood and destruction in the family’s cottage meant something bad had happened to his brother. As Aiden and Tony begin investigating the who, how and why, it becomes apparent that several of the locals know more than they are willing to say. The murder of a local real estate agent, and the poisoning of Tony’s dog proves that our couple have been targeted, possibly by the same person or persons responsible for killing Austin Warner.

The relationship between Aiden and Tony begins acrimoniously as Tony refuses Aiden’s attempts to convince her to help. Tony is overwhelmed in the wake of a recent discovery, and finding another young body brings up too many memories of crimes long ago but Tony knows that Aiden will never rest until his brother’s body is found, and in this Tony is hoping the truth will bring some peace to the man with whom she is falling in love. 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 Aiden’s right hand man and security specialist Smith Sanders; as well as police chief Barrett Montgomery, veterinarian Levi Russell, his assistant Sharon, and real estate agent Melanie Rodgers. We are reintroduced to Memphis Camden (Falling for the Ice Queen 2), and his brother Saint Camden (Ice Cold Saint 3). Smith Sanders story is next in TRAPPED IN ICE.

TOUCHED BY ICE is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, greed and addiction, forgiveness and love. The fast paced, action packed premise is captivating and intriguing; the romance is seductive and provocative; the characters are desperate, determined and dynamic.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Frozen in Ice
Falling for the Ice Queen
Ice Cold Saint

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Cold-Blooded Liar by Karen Rose – Review & Excerpt

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Cold-Blooded Liar by Karen Rose – Review & Excerpt

 

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Description:
San Diego homicide detective Kit McKittrick loves the water. She lives on a boat, and when she’s not solving crimes with the SDPD, she’s assisting her foster sister with her charter fishing business, scuba diving, or playing with her poodle. But there’s nothing that intrigues Kit more than a cold case, so when an anonymous caller leads her on the path of a wanted killer, she’s determined to end the decade-long manhunt.

Sam is soon released but goes home with both a newfound distaste for the SDPD and a resolve—not unlike Kit’s—to uncover the truth. Kit and Sam repeatedly butt heads in their separate investigations but are forced to work together to find one of the deadliest serial killers the city has faced in a decade.

 

 

Review:

Cold-Blooded Liar by Karen Rose is the 1st book in her new San Diego Case Files series.  I am a big fan of Karen Rose, as she writes fantastic crime drama’s that are exciting and tense from start to finish.  I will always read her books.

We meet Kit McKittrick, our heroine, and a San Diego homicide detective, who is considered one of the best in solving crimes.  She and her partner, Baz have worked together for many years, and they are currently deep into a cold case, revolving around a serial killer, who has eluded them and recently killed again.  Kit is close to her foster parents, who also willingly help other young girls to foster, to give them a better life. 20 years ago, Kit’s sister was found murdered, with no resolution over the years, leaving her with terrible memories; this cold case has her determined to find this killer, who kills only underage young girls.   

Sam Reeves, is a psychologist, who treats clients who are court ordered.  One of his patients, is a pathological liar, and when this patient begins revealing strange details, Sam decides to anonymously report this to the SDPD hotline, without revealing his identity, especially keeping patient confidentiality. Kit and Baz discover the tipster’s name, and arrest him, thinking he could be the murderer; since he left a clue to where the woman maybe buried. In a short time, Kit knows that Sam is not the killer, and is released. Since he wants to help get more information, he continues to call Kit with some clues he gets from the client’s ex-wives. 

What follows was very exciting, intense, mindboggling, suspenseful, and action-packed thriller.  The San Diego homicide team was very good, with Baz, Navarro, Connor working closely with Kit to find the killer before he kills again.  I liked Kit’s family, and Sam’s friends who were always there for each other.  Sam also finds himself attracted to Kit, who she knows is innocent, shying away from any romantic feelings. I suspect that we will see more of Sam and Kit in the next book of this series. Cold-Blooded Liar was a fantastic thriller, with so much emotional and passionate feelings along the way. 

Karen Rose once again gives us a fabulous story, with great characters, and a major surprise at the end. I could not put the book down, as it was exciting from start to finish.  If you like crime dramas, you should be reading Karen Rose.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

 

COLD-BLOODED LIAR by Karen Rose
Berkley Hardcover | On sale February 28, 2023

                              Excerpt

Longview Park, San Diego, California

Monday, April 4, 5:30 p.m.

Kit pulled the handkerchief across her nose and mouth as she watched the two CSU techs meticulously uncovering what was, indeed, a grave. Based on the odor, the body had been there awhile.

They’d arrived at the mystery caller’s coordinates to find that the ground had settled somewhat, creating a slight depression that measured five and a half by two and a half feet.

Ground-penetrating radar had shown a body.

The victim had been small.

Kit slipped her hand into her pocket, finding the little cat-bird figurine. Stroking it with her thumb. Please don’t be a child.

“I hope it’s not a kid,” Baz murmured, echoing her thoughts.

All homicides were difficult. Even drug dealers murdered on the street had been loved by someone. Were missed by someone.

But the child homicides were a completely different level of hell.

She looked away from the grave to where Sergeant Ryland, the CSU leader, was making a plaster cast of the only footprint they’d found in the area. It was a man’s shoe, size eleven.

“You got anything for us, Ryland?” she called.

“I just might.”

She and Baz walked from the grave site to where someone had stepped off the asphalt path, leaving the single footprint in the strip of ground between the path and the field of grass.

Ryland finished pouring the plaster over the footprint, smoothed it out, then set the timer on his phone. “Thirty minutes for the plaster to set. Come see the photos I took of the print while I wait.” He retrieved his camera and beckoned them closer. “There was lettering on the sole of the shoe-likely a brand name. I can’t quite make it out in the photo, but I’m hoping to get detail from the plaster cast.”

“So it’ll be seventy-two hours or so,” Baz said and Ryland nodded.

Kit leaned closer to the screen. “Can you zoom in on it?”

Ryland did, handing the camera to Kit. “I can make out what looks like a Y at the end of the brand name, but-“

“Sperry,” Kit said. “Sorry to interrupt, Sergeant. I recognize the logo. They’re Sperry Top-Siders.” She gave him back his camera. “My sister runs a charter fishing business and sometimes I first mate for her on my days off. A lot of her customers wear them.”

Ryland studied the photo. “You could be right.”

She was, Kit was certain. “Trouble is, that’s a popular shoe. I’ve even got a pair.”

“So do I,” Baz said. “Tracking those will be nearly impossible.”

Kit shrugged. “But when we find the guy who owns these shoes, we can put him at the scene. Any way to get a weight estimate on the wearer?”

Ryland shook his head. “Ground’s too hard. Barely enough sinkage to get the plaster cast. I’ll let you know when I have something definite.”

“Detectives?” one of the techs at the grave called, his tone urgent. “Something over here you need to see.”

“Thank you, Sergeant,” Kit said, then approached the grave alongside Baz, schooling her expression. If it was a child’s grave, she would maintain her professionalism. She’d let herself react later, when she was alone.

“Victim’s a postpubescent female,” the tech said when they were graveside. “The ME will be able to give you a better age than I can, but I’m guessing somewhere between fourteen and eighteen.”

Feeling Baz’s eyes on her, Kit reassured him with a quick glance. She was fine.

He always worried about her reaction when the victim was the same age that Wren had been when she’d been murdered, but after four years as a homicide detective, Kit had seen far too many victims who’d been Wren’s age. It never got easier.

She hoped that it never would.

Excerpted from Cold-Blooded Liar by Karen Rose Copyright © 2023 by Karen Rose. Excerpted by permission of Berkley. All rights reserved.

 


 

 

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Terror by Crea Reitan-review tour

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?⚔ TERROR by Crea Reitan-review tour ?⚔

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 23, 2023

There are beings in this world that are the embodiment of fear itself – we call them Terrors.

Already an outcast shunned beyond the edge of town, I’m regularly ridiculed for my ungainly appearance. In this time of darkness, I simply do what is necessary to survive—like inviting in strangers who come knocking.

Which is what happened with The Unwanted—a Terror so cruel that if you turn him away, he will rip out your eyes before eating your heart. My act of kindness has entrenched me into an even darker world of monsters like no other. It’s made all the more terrifying because I don’t understand the language the Terrors speak.

As the Order of Ipsom launches a campaign to end the Terrors, the world turns medieval as fear grips the land. Fires burn the forests, screams fill the air, all while the Guardians try to kill the unkillable.

But I’m not immortal. And I might just become collateral damage.

••••

REVIEW:Is there nothing this author can’t turn her pen too? Steampunk/Omegaverse/Reverse Harem/ her stories are all different (a lot of authors just swap names and churn another book out!) and they just drawn you in.

My heart just broke reading Voe’s hard life. Being horrifically injured and disfigured as a child (a bakery accident) Voe has had nothing but contempt and hatred thrown at her, all she is good for is ridicule and derision! Her trek to the local village is nothing short of an ordeal for Voe……

Unwanted has known nothing but justice, well his type of justice. Turn him away at your peril, no one has ever invited him into their homes. His punishment is not for the squeamish nor the faint hearted (triggers are given) and he’s expecting the same from the owner of the isolated cottage…..

Our “monster” is a Terror (Terrors are monsters that roam the night) each monster has an ability that they use to punish the corrupt. They aren’t men that turn into monsters, they are monsters, more limbs and appendages than you can count. So when Voe invited the Terror into her home, she’s not sure what to expect. So she feeds him and tries to communicate with him. The food is eaten, but the language barrier is a problem.

She also doesn’t expect kindness and understanding from the Terror, he sees her scars and finds her beautiful anyway. And when they give into the chemistry that is between them, both are shocked! Want (shoe fir Unwanted) needs to show off this wondrous creature with his pack of Terror’s….

As Loop/Warp and a host of Terrors meet Voe, they are struck at how age can be with a Terror, they too want Voe! And suddenly she’s being shared by the Terrors! (She’s writes about multiple partners, so why should this book be any different ?) The fact Voe and the Unwanted don’t really understand one another was a little frustrating, I had hoped a mind link would occur and they could understand one another.

I liked how Unwanted saw Voe as a copy of himself (he sews pieces of flesh onto his own body) she’s scarred, he’s scarred, he’s fascinated with her, she’s still terrified of him, but he does look at her with disgust. But the Order of Ipsom want the Terrors gone, they are a religious order that bring their own form of justice to the villages. They want the villagers to rise up and kill the Terrors. But it’s not going to be an easy feat!

The Guardian is a type of law enforcer, they also uphold the laws brought in by the Order of Ipsom. So how can one woman save these creatures? She has no powers, and she tries to save both the villagers and the Terrors. But neither really understand her nor do they want to stray from their paths.

It’s another great story from this author , I couldn’t put it down. So if your a fan of gothic horror with a little romance thrown in for good measure this is a book you’ll enjoy. And for fans of the author, you won’t be disappointed.

Another highly recommended book from this author.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B ?

Crea lives in upstate New York with her dog and husband. She has been writing since grade school, when her second grade teacher had her class keep writing journals. She has a habit of creating secondary, and often time tertiary, characters that take over her stories. All of her RH relationships end up being heavily polyamorous – meaning it’s not just all the men for one woman. There’s also some M/M action going on. When she can’t fall asleep at night, she thinks up new scenes for her characters to act out. This, of course, is how most of her meant-to-be-thrown-away characters tend to end up front and center – and utterly swoon-worthy! Don’t ask her how many book boyfriends she has…

When not writing, Crea is an avid reader. Her TBR pile is several hundred books high (don’t even look at her kindle wish list or the unread books on her tablet). Sometimes, she enjoys crafting; sometimes, exploring nature; sometimes, traveling. Mostly, she enjoys putting her characters on paper and breathing life into them. Oh, and sleeping. Crea loves to sleep!

Author Links:

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TO SAVE A MATE (Redwood University) by Poppy Ireland-review tour

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TO SAVE A MATE (Redwood University 2) by Poppy Ireland

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 2, 2023

Welcome back to Redwood University, where a power-hungry shifter wants to rule them all; and those strong enough to stand up to him must fight.

I tried to flee Redwood University, but when my father was kidnapped by a ruthless alpha, I was forced to submit. With a broken heart and wounded pride, I reluctantly followed his demands–if only to keep my father alive.

There’s danger lurking around every corner, and since Alexei crushed my heart in his fist, I sought an alliance with the vampires, fae, and witches instead.

Alexei is furious, jealous, and possessive. But despite everything, I still ache for him.

But the future alpha made his choice. No matter what he says, I can’t wait for a mate that won’t stand by my side. I just wish my heart would get with the program.

Because there’s an unknown power simmering in my veins, and a mystery I’m on the verge of cracking. I don’t know what the future holds, but I do know that Alpha Jones will do anything to gain more control, and that’s one thing I can never allow to happen.

So, if Alexei won’t save me from his father, then I’ll save myself.

••••••

REVIEW: TO SAVE A MATE is the second instalment in Poppy Ireland’s contemporary, new adult REDWOOD UNIVERSITY paranormal, romance trilogy focusing on heir to the Redwood Pack Alpha Alexei Koenig, and eighteen year old Nicole Fairweather. TO SAVE A MATE cannot be read as a stand alone as it picks up after the events and cliff hanger of book one-TO REJECT A MATE.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise including graphic violence, strong language and questionable consent, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers

Told from several first person perspectives ( Alexei, Nicole, Corbin, Alpha Jones) TO SAVE A MATE continues to focus on heir to the Redwood Pack Alpha Alexei Koenig, and eighteen year old Nicole Fairweather. In the wake of Alexei’s rejection of Nicole; her public humiliation and embarrassment; as well as her father’s imprisonment at the order of Alpha Jones, Nicole must consider her options going forward. With the assistance of Christian and the local Vampire clan, the Fae ,witches, and her mother’s former friends and sorority sisters, Nicole must come to terms with what has happened and why but all is not as it appears to be when Alpha Jones’ obsession with power and control threaten the truce between the shifters and the supernatural order, and his relationship with his son and only heir. Completely unaware of her own inherent powers, Nicole continues to search for the truth, a truth that is about to push Alexei out of her life, and into the arms of someone else. What ensues is the continued betrayal by Alexei and his father, and the fall-out when Alexei walks away from his heritage, proclaiming Nicole Fairweather as his mate and his love.

The relationship between Alexei and Nicole continues to be acrimonious as shifters cannot, and will not claim a human as a mate but Alexei’s heart and the his wolf know Nicole is their mate, even though no one knows the truth about the who or what of our story line heroine. Nicole’s true powers, and her supernatural abilities have been hidden; locked away where no one including Nicole are able to access but with the approach of her nineteenth birthday, Nicole will emerge more powerful and stronger than anyone could have imagined. Heart broken and destroyed by her fated mate, Nicole is willing to cross the line in favor of aligning with someone else.

There continues to be a large ensemble cast of colorful and powerful supernatural secondary and supporting characters: Nicole’s father Dr. David Fairweather; Redwood University president and Pack Alpha Jones Koenig and his ‘luna’ Anya; Alexei’s best friend and Beta Corbin, and his sister Mara, as well as witch Juniper, vampire Christian, and Nicole’s familiar Macey. We are introduced to Nicole’s best friend Bee, and her father General August Minifred; Nicole’s ‘aunts’ Jade and Hannah, as well as professor Dr. Cammie Viden. The requisite evil has many faces; the cast of mean girls, bullies and malevolent adults continues to create anxiety and stress for everyone including this reader as the story line / series has succumbed to a YA atmosphere with its’ preconditioned standards.

TO SAVE A MATE is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, madness and obsession, speciesism and hatred, forgiveness and love. The fast paced premise is enthralling and entertaining but Nicole’s true nature has yet to be revealed; the romance struggles in the face of secrets, lies , rejection and betrayal; the characters are numerous, energetic and magical. TO SAVE A MATE ends on a cliff hanger-you have been told.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one TO REJECT A MATE.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

Poppy Ireland is an author of paranormal and fantasy romance. She is the fictional brainchild of two longtime friends and USA Today Bestselling Authors who like to use their freaky mind melding powers to write spicy romantasy stories that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

If you’re wondering who we are, well, that’s a secret we’ll never tell.

Xoxo, Poppy

Author Links:

https://linktr.ee/poppyirelandbooks

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