Monthly Archives: October 2023

Devil of the High Seas by Lauren Smith – a Review

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Devil of the High Seas by Lauren Smith – a Review

 

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Description:
She becomes a wicked pirate lord’s stolen treasure…
On the eve of her wedding, Josephine Greyville is kidnapped by a true devil of the high seas – a pirate! Gavin Castleton isn’t just any pirate. He’s the twin brother of the man she’s supposed to marry. Tempted by Gavin’s kisses and the first taste of freedom she’s ever had in her life, Josephine discovers she could lose all that she’s come to hold dear. She must choose between her family and a storm of passion filling her heart.
He’s a pirate out for revenge and can’t resist the lure of fiery hearted woman…
Gavin Castleton nearly dies after losing his ship to a mutiny and is forced to return to his beloved family estate in Cornwall to heal and make a plan for revenge. Stumbling through a secret entrance, of his home where he hopes to find his twin brother, he collapses at the beside of the most beautiful woman he’s ever seen. After she tends to his wounds, he learns she’s to marry his brother. Unable to repay her kindness with anything other than desire, he kidnaps her to keep her from marrying his brother. Wicked through and through, Gavin can’t resist taking the treasure of Josephine’s heart, even if it means losing all he holds dear.

 

Review:

Devil of the High Seas by Lauren Smith, is the third book in her Pirates of King’s Landing Series. It’s not necessary to read the other books as they all stand alone on their own, there are characters from previous books (but you’ll only know that if you’ve read them.)Twists and turns will keep you on the edge, the battles and fight scenes are great, the sad parts will make you reach for tissues, and the chemistry between Gavin and Josie will have you wishing it was longer…..

Gavin left his home seven years ago when the love of his life chose his twin Griffin!! But now he’s back, for revenge!! Returning home after losing his ship (to a mutiny) he’s home to lick his wounds and salvage his pride….

Josephine is due to marry the upstanding Earl of Castleton, it’s not the life she’s dreamed of, but she’s not about to disappoint her family…..Being abducted by a pirate sweeps Josie into a world that’s beyond her wildest imagination. That’s the thanks she gets for helping a stranger who’s wounded!

Her family chase the pair across the seas, there is danger lurking in every corner! But that doesn’t stop this couple from falling in love ?

But how can they possibly be together when Gavin is a pirate and she’s already betrothed?

It was great to see previous characters from the other books (I personally love to catch up with couples from previous books.) I loved Jodie’s father (there is a scene in the book which I loved ?)

Yes, it’s a little cheesy in places. Yes it’s also predictable in its ending. But I love this authors style of writing, and I love this series, so I’m going to continue to read and recommend these books.

Reviewed by Julie

Copy supplied for Review

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THE DEVIL’S LAIR (De Kysa Mafia 2) by Penny Dee-review tour

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THE DEVIL’S LAIR (De Kysa Mafia 2) by Penny Dee-review tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 6, 2023

Massimo De Kysa.
The man who stole my first kiss.
And now my boss.

I learned early how life can turn on a dime.
That’s how it is when you grow up as a mafia princess.
One minute you’re rich, spoilt, and betrothed to the most revered man in the city—the next your broke and selling your designer bags so you can eat.

But I’m not the kind of girl who gives up without a fight.
And when someone steals everything from me I’m not afraid to turn to the enemy for help.

He’s a De Kysa. I’m a Bamcorda.
Two rival families from the East Coast.
But it wasn’t always that way.
A year ago, he stole my first kiss and gave me a night to remember.

Since then, he’s changed.
Now he’s a powerful don with the presence of an approaching storm.

He agrees to help me hunt down who stole my inheritance.
But everything comes with a price, especially when you strike a deal with the devil.

Will trusting the enemy get my life back, or will it cost me everything?

•••••

REVIEW: THE DEVIL’S LAIR is the second instalment in Penny Dee’s contemporary, adult DE KYSA MAFIA dark, erotic, Mafia romance series. This is Don Massimo De Kysa, and twenty-two year old Bianca Bamcorda’s story line. THE DEVIL’S LAIR can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but for back story and cohesion I recommend reading book one THE DEVIL’S DEN. Massimo is Luca De Kysa’s brother (The Devil’s Den).

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

Told from dual first person perspectives (Massimo and Bianca) using present day and memories from the past, THE DEVIL’S LAIR follows in the aftermath of the murder of Bianca’s father Luca Bamcorda, a man who demanded respect but gave nothing in return. Within days of his funeral Bianca discovers she is homeless, and all of her father’s money has been stolen. Desperate for help, Bianca goes to the only man she believes can help, a man she has lusted after for a very long time but a man in direct competition with her late father’s power. Enter Don Massimo De Kysa, the man with whom Bianca will fall in love but all does not go according to plan when Massimo offers to help find the person responsible, only to face down the impossible at every turn. What ensues is the building but questionable relationship between Bianca and Massimo, and the potential fall-out when the truth is revealed.

The world building focuses on the search for the truth but the truth is about to destroy our story line couple. Working for Massimo means a guaranteed paycheque but working for the enemy means nothing is as it seems, and the truth is about to destroy our story line heroine.

The relationship between Massimo and Bianca begins as an arrangement. Massimo hires Bianca in the face of desperation and pity but Massimo’s secrets are about to push Bianca out of his life. The $ex scenes are limited but intimate and passionate.

The secondary and supporting characters are colorful and energetic. We are introduced to Bianca’s ex-friends, Massimo’s sister Eve, bartender Natalie, as well as the return of Massimo’s brother Nico. The requisite evil has many faces.

THE DEVIL’S LAIR is a Cinderella-esque story line with a bit of Pretty Woman™ thrown in for good measure. Bianca will lose everything, and must face down the people she once called friends but fair-weather friends threaten any hope of Bianca’s trust. The fast paced premise is twisted and edgy; the characters are animated, desperate and tragic; the romance is seductive but struggles in the face of mistrust and lies.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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PERFECT STRANGERS (Serendipity’s Finest 4) by Carly Phillips

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PERFECT STRANGERS (Serendipity’s Finest 4) by Carly Phillips -review tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 6, 2023

One night.
No strings.
Things just got complicated.

Between long hours in the ER and failing to please her demanding father, Dr. Alexa Collins barely has time for a life, and the strain is starting to take its toll.

On a rare night out, she can’t resist getting a little crazy on the dance floor. Or playfully crooking her finger at the sinfully hot football player watching her every move. And when a dance leads to some hot, stress-relieving sex, she’s all in with Luke Thompson. He’s just the no-risk diversion she desperately needs.

When Luke proposes they spend some time together, Alexa can’t say no. Not when he’s so determined to show her how to have fun. Alexa figures it can’t hurt to have a few days with the irresistible Luke. After all, he’ll be gone soon, and her life will return to the daily grind.

Except this perfect stranger is more than she anticipated and when it’s time to say goodbye, he’ll be taking a big piece of her heart with him.

* Perfect Strangers was originally part of the Hot Summer Nights anthology.

••••••

REVIEW: PERFECT STRANGERS is the fourth instalment and novella in Carly Phillips’ contemporary, adult SERENDIPITY’S FINEST erotic, romance series.This is ER physician Dr. Alexa Collins, and professional football player Luke Thompson’s story line. PERFECT STRANGERS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

NOTE: Perfect Strangers was originally part of the Hot Summer Nights anthology, and the events take place prior to book one PERFECT FIT.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Alexa and Luke) PERFECT STRANGERS follows the quick building romance and relationship between our leading couple. A night on the town with her best friend /police officer Cara Hartley (Perfect Fi), a sexy dance with a stranger, and a vengeful attack finds Dr. Alexa Collins exhausted and angry until said stranger walks back into her life, and offers up breakfast and a story for the woman with whom he will fall in love. Enter professional football player Luke Thompson. Luke’s arrival in Serendipity is fortuitous in the wake of meeting Alexa Collins. Helping his former teammate Cole Sanders clean out his father’s house, a night at a local bar brings his future into focus but Alexa’s life at the hospital is difficult, and Luke is hoping to open her eyes to something else. What ensues is the insta lust to love relationship between Luke and Alexa, and the potential fall-out when Luke offers a weekend away, and Alexa must consider her future going forward.

The relationship between Luke and Alexa is one of immediate attraction. Luke is hoping for something more but his time in Serendipity is limited, and Alexa is at a crossroads with her busy career. The $ex scenes are passionate and intimate.

The secondary and supporting characters include Alexa’s friend Officer Cara Hartley, Cara’s ex boyfriend Officer Michael Marsden; Luke’s former teammate Cole Sanders, as well as Alexa’s father Dr. Aaron Collins.

PERFECT STRANGERS is a story of family and relationships, struggle and trust, acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is entertaining and captivating; the romance is seductive; the characters are determined and charismatic.

Reading Order and Previous reviews
Perfect Fit
Perfect Fling
Perfect Together

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Carly Phillips:

Carly Phillips is the N.Y. Times and USA Today Bestselling Author of over 50 sexy contemporary romance novels featuring hot men, strong women and the emotionally compelling stories her readers have come to expect and love. Carly’s career spans over a decade and a half with various New York publishing houses, and she is now an Indie author who runs her own business and loves every exciting minute of her publishing journey. Carly is happily married to her college sweetheart, the mother of two nearly adult daughters and three crazy dogs (two wheaten terriers and one mutant Havanese) who star on her Facebook Fan Page and website. Carly loves social media and is always around to interact with her readers.

To learn more about Carly Phillips & her books, visit here!

Website: www.carlyphillips.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/carlyphillips
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CarlyPhillipsFanPage
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/10000.Carly_Phillips
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Carly-Phillips/e/B001I9W0MS

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Bad Boys Don’t Die (Complete Series) by BB Easton-review tour

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Bad Boys Don’t Die (Complete Collection) by BB Easton-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 October 5, 2023

With only three days left until the predicted apocalypse, the small town of Franklin Springs, Georgia, has become a wasteland of abandoned cars, abandoned homes, abandoned businesses, and abandoned people. People like Rainbow Williams.

Rain isn’t afraid of dying. In fact, she’s looking forward to it. If she can just outrun her pain until April 23, she’ll never have to feel it at all.

Wes Parker has survived every horrible thing this life has thrown at him with nothing more than his resourcefulness and disarming good looks. Why should the end of the world be any different? All he needs are some basic supplies, shelter, and a sucker willing to help him out, which is exactly what he hops to find when he returns to his hometown of Franklin Springs.

As society crumbles, dangers mount, and secrets refuse to stay buried, two lost souls are thrust together in a twist of fate—one who will do anything to survive and one who can’t wait to die.

Perhaps, together, they can learn how to live.

Before their time runs out.

Titles Included in The Complete Collection:
Bad Boys Don’t Die
Bad Boys Don’t Stay
Bad Boys Don’t Fall

* Previously published under the title The Complete Rain Trilogy.
** A comprehensive CW is available on the author’s website.

••••••••

–> The BAD BOYS DON’T DIE complete collection was originally release as a three part trilogy <–

BAD BOYS DON’T DIE is the first instalment in BB Easton’s new adult BAD BOYS DON’T DIE post-apocalyptic, thriller series focusing on twenty-two year old Wesson ‘Wes’ Parker and nineteen year old Rainbow ‘Rain’ Williams. BAD BOYS DON’T DIE was originally released as PRAYING FOR RAIN.

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

Told from dual first person perspectives (Wes and Rain) using present day, memories and nightmares, BAD BOYS DON’T DIE focuses on the days before the end of the world. April 23 has been designated the end of life as everyone knows it, and as April 23 approaches people begin to spiral, lawlessness is the norm, and survival of the fittest is a daily occurrence. With no food, no money or basics of life, eighteen year old Rain Williams comes face to face with Wes Parker, the man with whom Rain will fall in love. Wes Parker is desperate to find a safe place to wait out the apocalypse but never expected to have company on the run. As Wes and Rain encounter danger and death at every turn, they will learn that everything is not as it appears to be.

BAD BOYS DON’T DIE (Part 1) is a story of power and control, mayhem and madness, desperation and determination, love and survival. The premise is action packed, intriguing and captivating; the characters are strong willed and struggling; the romance is passionate but heart breaking. BAD BOYS DON’T DIE ends on a bit of a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

________

BAD BOYS DON’T STAY is the second instalment in BB Easton’s new adult BAD BOYS DON’T DIE dark, post-apocalyptic, romantic thriller focusing on twenty-two year old Wesson ‘Wes’ Parker and nineteen year old Rainbow ‘Rain’ Williams. BAD BOYS DON’T STAY should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up after the events and cliff hanger of book one.

* Previously published under the title Fighting for Rain

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

Told from dual first person perspectives (Wes and Rain) using present day, memories and nightmares, BAD BOY’S DON’T STAY continues to focus in the aftermath of the apocalypse. When the truth is finally revealed, Wes and Rain are desperately focusing on a place to live, only to find themselves at the mercy of the people controlling the streets. Collecting a few friends along the way, our couple battle the odds, including the return of Rain’s ex boyfriend but all does not go according to plan when Rain’s life is threatened, and Wes finds himself the odd man out. Alone without the man with whom she was falling in love, Rain must face the likelihood of going it alone but she is not brave or strong enough to tackle the streets in a apocalyptic nightmare.

BAD BOYS DON’T STAY focuses primarily on our story line heroine as she must endure the survival of the fittest. With Wes on his own, Rain finds comfort in what she knows, not necessarily with whom she ever wanted to be. The premise is raw and tragic; the romance struggles in the face of time spent apart.

_________

BAD BOYS DON’T FALL is the third and final instalment in BB Easton’s new adult BAD BOYS DON’T DIE dark, post-apocalyptic romance thriller focusing on twenty-two year old Wesson ‘Wes’ Parker and nineteen year old Rainbow ‘Rain’ Williams. BAD BOYS DON’T FALL should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up after the events and cliff hanger of book two BAD BOYS DON’T STAY.

* Previously published under the title Dying for Rain.

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

Told from dual first person perspectives (Wes and Rain) using present day, memories and nightmares, BAD BOYS DON’T FALL continues to focus on the fight for survival. Chaos and disorder continue to rule; the lawlessness is heightened by threats of death; and anyone caught helping anyone else, is deemed a threat to the people in control. Wes and Rain’s reconnection is short lived when betrayal from within places Wes in the direct line of fire. Rain will become a virtual captive of the people slowly destroying her life but our heroine eventually pulls up her ‘big girl panties’, and finds a ways to save the man that she loves.

The BAD BOYS DON’T DIE series is a though provoking, dark, gritty, and tragic series of power and control; betrayal and vengeance, mayhem and madness. The premise is edgy, tense and sensational; the romance is passionate and heart breaking; the characters are broken, desperate and often destructive.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed By Sandy

BB Easton is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of 44 CHAPTERS ABOUT 4 MEN, the hilarious, steamy, tell-all memoir that inspired the Netflix Original Series, SEX/LIFE. Within the first month, SEX/LIFE was viewed by 67 million households worldwide, making it the 3rd Most-Watched Netflix Original Series of all time.

BB was a stressed-out school psychologist and mother of two when the inspiration to write 44 CHAPTERS ABOUT 4 MEN struck. Through that process, she rediscovered her passion for writing, became dangerously sleep-deprived, and finally mustered enough courage to quit her job and become a full-time author.

BB went on to publish four more wickedly funny, shockingly steamy, and heartwarmingly autobiographical books in the 44 CHAPTERS series: SKIN, SPEED, STAR, and SUIT. Since then, she’s been hard at work writing fictional stories that appeal to her love for us-against-the-world romance, including a suspenseful dystopian trilogy (BAD BOYS DON’T DIE), a psychologist-client romantic comedy (GROUP THERAPY), and a dark Irish mafia romance (DEVIL OF DUBLIN).

Connect with BB

Website: www.authorbbeaston.com

Goodreads: https://goo.gl/4hiwiR

Amazon: author.to/bbeaston

Facebook: www.facebook.com/bbeaston

Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/bbeaston

Instagram: www.instagram.com/author.bb.easton

Twitter: www.twitter.com/bb_easton

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bbeaston

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/bb-easton

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/artbyeaston

Spotify playlists: https://open.spotify.com/user/bbeaston

For free e-books every month in her newsletter: www.authorbbeaston.com/subscribe

 

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For Your Mind (For Your Love 3) by Crea Reitan-review tour

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For Your Mind (For Your Love 3) 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 September 28, 2023

The mind is a terrible place to live.

Simon has more or less moved out, Damon is burying his rage, and me? I’m in misery, trapped in the dark hole of unrequited love. I don’t know where to turn. Entire days disappear where I have no idea how much time has passed. Just when I think my brother and I are doomed to our collective pain, we work out a truth that could patch up our friendship with Simon.

He comes home and it’s as it always was, except now it’s a little bit more. While we may push boundaries, we’ll never cross the line into too much.

Even though I wish we would.

I still struggle with one thing. Simon might have found someone who will accept our unconventional—probably inappropriate—friendship, but what about me? Will I find someone that can accept that part of me, too? Or am I destined to be alone, with the only relationship I have being the one in my mind, where it’s my best friend and me, forever?

••••

REVIEW: My favourite author hit it out the park again ?

This is book three and the last book in this series (I’m hoping for one more ?)
You really need to read the other two books in this series, it stands on its own. But reading books one and two before this one will add more background, and make things a little clearer (although things are explained)

This book is Declan’s point of view. And if you’ve read the first two books, you’ll understand his sadness/frustration and anger. His beloved friend (and in Declan’s eyes house husband) no longer has anything to do with them! And it’s killing both Declan and his twin Damon! They wander from moment to moment lost! They have each other, but their heart is missing….

Zarek is a teacher in the college Declan works in (Declan is a therapist and nutritionist for the sports department) and once sighted Zarek is smitten (but so is half the students and teachers ?) but catching his attention is proving challenging, but Zarek loves a challenge…..

I’ve read both books before leaping into this one. There are triggers (you are warned by the author) but I needed to find out how Declan and Zarek get together and for me the triggers weren’t a problem.

The relationship starts out as just $exual (Declan can’t think further than that) Zarek is happy with that (for the moment anyway)
But when Simon gets back in touch, poor Zarek has to compete for his lover’s attention!

I loved Zarek’s sisters (they were a riot) they fully supported Zarek and one another (their parents had preconceived notions on how their children should grow up!) Zarek is bi and one of his sisters wasn’t a sister to begin with!

By the time I’ve read this book, I’d forgiven Declan and Damon for the way they treated Simon and his new partner) I see how they revolves their lives and world around Simon (he lost his mother at a young age, and his father became an absent parent!) It also explained their relationship in more detail than the first two.

This book will have you wiping tears, smiling till your face hurts and shouting at your kindle. The journey Zarek and Declan travel isn’t a smooth one, it has so many bumps I had bruises (Zarek knows all about bruises ?) Zarek has so many issues with himself, but also the relationship the twins have with their BFF, it’s hard for him to accept and grow with it, it doesn’t help that there are people in this story that are waiting in the wings for Zarek to walk away so that they can swoop in and take Declan away!

The only person missing (and I hope gets his own book one day) was Vulcan, who stole the show in book one ?

It says it’s a HEA ending (I think it felt more of a HFN Happy For Now) they are still finding there way, I’d love for the author to come back and do a novella in the future (just an update that all us good in the Whittaker World)

So my recommendation is to read the first two books then read this one (my opinion)

Another emotional, but amazing read.

Reading Order and Previous Review
For Your Time
For Your Heart

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:

Facebook Group / Facebook / Instagram / TikTok / Website /

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Fall of Ruin and Wrath by Jennifer L. Armentrout – a Review

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Fall of Ruin and Wrath by Jennifer L. Armentrout – a Review

 

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Description:
SHE LIVES BY HER INTUITION. HE FEEDS ON HER PLEASURE.

Long ago, the world was destroyed by gods. Only nine cities were spared. Separated by vast wilderness teeming with monsters and unimaginable dangers, each city is now ruled by a guardian―royalty who feed on mortal pleasure.

Born with an intuition that never fails, Calista knows her talents are of great value to the power-hungry of the world, so she lives hidden as a courtesan of the Baron of Archwood. In exchange for his protection, she grants him information.

When her intuition leads her to save a traveling prince in dire trouble, the voice inside her blazes with warning―and promise. Today he’ll bring her joy. One day he’ll be her doom.

When the Baron takes an interest in the traveling prince and the prince takes an interest in Calista, she becomes the prince’s temporary companion. But the city simmers with rebellion, and with knights and monsters at her city gates and a hungry prince in her bed, intuition may not be enough to keep her safe.

Calista must follow her intuition to safety or follow her heart to her downfall.

 

 

Review:

Fall of Ruin and Wrath by Jennifer L. Armentrout is the first book in her new Awakening series. Background: Long ago, the world was destroyed by gods. Only nine cities were spared. Separated by vast wilderness teeming with monsters and unimaginable dangers, each city is now ruled by a guardian―royalty who feed on mortal pleasure.

Calista (Lis), our heroine, was an orphan at a young age, not knowing her parents; she befriends Grady, who becomes her best friend and together they manage to live a hard street life. Lis was born with intuition and mind reading abilities, and as she gets older, she finds a safe and comfortable life as a courtesan (and paramour) of the Baron of Archwood. In exchange for his protection, Lis grants the Baron with information, such as her intuition and foresight; as well as giving Grady a job as guard.

One night, Lis senses something wrong, and walks out to the forest, only to see a group of men hurting a man, who happens to be a Hyborn, and she helps safe his life, as well as fix his injuries. In a short time, she will meet Thorne again, when he arrives at the Baron home, and she learns he is a Prince. Thorne is immediately enamored by the beautiful Lis, and the banter between them was fun.  Lis is fighting her feelings for Thorne, as she is torn between her intuition that senses danger and facing a possible doomed fate.  I really liked Lis, as she was brave, strong, independent, though I was not a fan of the many spicy smut scenes Lis has with both the Baron and Thorne. I did really like Thorne, especially since he seemed to really care for her; though despite his charismatic attitude, he was also possessive.

The last third of the book was very exciting and intense with Lis’s life very much in danger. There were a number of surprising twists and turns along the way. Fall of Ruin and Wrath was a compelling story, which I look forward to the next book. Fall of Ruin and Wrath was an amazing world building, at times confusing, filled with great characters, mystery; but it was very well written by Jennifer L. Armentrout. 

Reviewed by Barb

Copy purchased

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COURT OF MOONLIGHT AND SHADOWS by Poppy Ireland-review tour

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COURT OF MOONLIGHT AND SHADOWS (Nightshade University 1) by Poppy Ireland

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 5, 2023

Nightshade University was supposed to be a land of opportunity, a haven of knowledge. A prestigious institution catering to the elite Fae of all four courts:

The Dawn Court: Defenders of justice and honor.
The Dusk Court: Agents skilled in secrets and espionage.
The Demon Court: Bringers of chaos, reveling in destruction.
The Moon Court: Mystics wielding celestial magic and divination.

As a freshman, navigating power and politics was not on my syllabus, but now it’s a game I’m forced to play.

At the heart of the intrigue stands Lysander Thorne. Our connection is electric, an attraction that’s as forbidden as it is undeniable. With him, I’m drawn into a world of shifting alliances and treacherous loyalties.

But as I delve deeper, I discover more than just courtly schemes. A darkness looms, one that ties my fate to the very soul of Nightshade University. I might be the key to unearthing a malevolent spirit, but at what cost? My heart, my future… or perhaps even my life?

In a world where secret societies rule, and passion intertwines with politics, trust is a luxury and every decision, a high-stakes gamble.

••••

REVIEW: COURT OF MOONLIGHT AND SHADOWS is the first instalment in Poppy Ireland’s contemporary, new adult NIGHTSHADE UNIVERSITY dark, paranormal, romance series focusing on Lysander Thorne, and eighteen year old, Sarielle Blackwood.

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

Told from dual first person perspectives (Lysander and Sarielle) COURT OF MOONLIGHT AND SHADOWS follows in the wake of eighteen year old Fae Sarielle Blackwood, and her first few days at Nightshade University. Having been prepared all of her life to be chosen as a member of the Dawn Court, Sarielle will surprise everyone including her family when the blood chooses another Court. Struggling to make sense of her new life, Sarielle is befriended by Lysander Thorne, whose intentions are darker than she could have ever imagined. As Sarielle battles nightmares and visions, Lysander is focuses on claiming Sarielle as his own but all does not go according to plan when Sarielle’s powers begin to manifest, and her true nature makes her a target of the darkness and death.

The world building reveals some of the back story and history of the Nightshade University, and its’ secret cults that worship the dark arts. Sarielle will discover she is not whom or what she thought she should be, and in this, betrayal is paramount at every turn.

The relationship between Sarielle and Lysander is predicated upon a lie. Having been magically ‘chosen’ by the Moon Court, Sarielle is placed in the direct line of fire but it is her history and ancestors that will threaten anyone who comes near. Falling for Lysander was easy but betrayal and vengeance will come at a cost. Having been warned on numerous occasions, Sarielle is torn between her attraction to Lysander, and the fates who want to control her life. The $ex scenes are limited.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and magical secondary and supporting characters, all of whom are members of the Fae courts. We are introduced to Sarielle’s parents, and her brother Rook, and quirky roommate Lirien, who has visions of the future; campus lead Evageline, as well as Lysander’s ‘friend’ Ariya, and his father Caius Thorne. The requisite evil has many faces.

COURT OF MOONLIGHT AND SHADOWS is a story of power and control, chaos and dark magic, betrayal and vengeance, disbelief and deceit. The premise is entertaining and haunting; the characters are animated and spirited; the romance is limited to seduction and betrayal. COURT OF MOONLIGHT AND SHADOWS reads like several more popular and familiar paranormal teen and tween story lines-there is definitely a closeness with its’ recognizable plot lines, as well as the requisite evil villains and oblivious adults. There are several twists and turns, most easily deduced but exciting, none the less.

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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The Penitent(The Sacrifice 2) by A Zavarelli/Natasha Knight-review

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The Penitent (The Sacrifice Duet 2) by A Zavarelli/Natasha Knight-review tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 5, 2023

A cruel fate. Two souls condemned. An impossible love.

I knew he’d choose me before he came to our door on the night of the Tithing. I bore the mark that would make me his.

It was my ancestor who spoke the words that bound us together, and his demon-god who promised protection for the price of blood.

My blood.

I was prepared to be that sacrifice if it would keep my family safe.

Loving Azrael? The thought never crossed my mind. He was and would forever be my enemy.

He’s not the only monster coming for me, though, and somehow, it’s in Azrael’s arms I feel the safest.

But I need to be careful with him. I need to guard my heart because if I don’t, he is sure to destroy me.

•••••••

REVIEW:THE PENITENT is the second instalment in the contemporary, adult THE SACRIFICE dark, thriller duet co-authored by A. Zavarelli and Natasha Knight focusing on Willow Wildblood, and Azrael Delacroix. THE SACRIFICE DUET is set in the author’s THE SOCIETY world aka Imperium Valens Invictum IVI. THE PENITENT should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up after the events and cliff hanger of book one THE TITHING. If you have not read book one -THE TITHING-there may be spoilers in my review.

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

SOME BACKGROUND: Hundreds of years of history and abuse, murder and repercussions between the Delacroix and Wildblood families comes to fruition with the arrival of a new Wildblood female, marked at birth. To pay for the sins of the past, an ancient curse directed at the Delacroix descendants, the Wildblood’s must sacrifice one of their own, a sacrifice at the hands of the Delacroix ancestors.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Azrael and Willow) following several intersecting paths, THE PENITENT focuses on the rescue and recovery of our story line heroine. Along with her sister Raven, and Azrael’s sister Rebecca, Willow finds herself facing down her past, a past that refuses to let go. Struggling in the wake of his wife’s abduction, Azrael is determined to end the ‘curse’, starting with the woman that calls to his heart but there are others who refuse to let go, a madness and history that wants payment in blood.

The world building continues to focus on payment for sins of the past. Hundreds of years of history and vengeance continues with each successive generation, vengeance that, although deemed a rite of passage, is meant as a reminder to those who dare to cross the Delacroix line. Meanwhile, a secondary story line is ongoing with the return of the Disciples, a group of religious zealots whose aim it is to cleanse the world of witches and magic.

The relationship between Willow and Azrael continues to be one of questionable intent. Azrael married Willow with the intention of sacrificing her life but the reality of the situation dawns, and Azrael must choose between life and death. Willow does not trust the man with whom she is falling in love but there are others whose intentions are more dangerous and dark. The $ex scenes are intimate.

All of the previous story line characters return: Azrael’s long suffering and ill sister Rebecca, their brother Emmanuel, and evil grandmother Salome, as well as Willow’s sisters Raven, Winter, Aurora and Cordelia, and their struggling, weak-willed parents. The requisite evil has many faces, most of whom meet their end in an abhorrent manner.

THE PENITENT is another startling, dramatic and dark story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, secrets and lies, madness, murder, judgement and forgiveness. The premise is dark, haunting, raw and tragic; the characters are twisted, flawed and intense; the romance is edgy and impassioned.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one THE TITHING

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

About A. Zavarelli:

Zavarelli is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author of dark and contemporary romance.

When she’s not putting her characters through hell, she can usually be found watching bizarre and twisted documentaries in the name of research.

She currently lives in the Northwest with her lumberjack and an entire brood of fur babies.

Website: https://www.azavarelli.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AZavarelli
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AZavarellibooks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/azavarelli/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/a-zavarelli
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/13549895.A_Zavarelli
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2S3zrKS
Newsletter Signup: http://www.azavarelli.com/#!mailing-list/c46c

•••••••••••

About Natasha Knight:

USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance, Natasha Knight specializes in dark, tortured heroes. Happily-Ever-Afters are guaranteed, but she likes to put her characters through hell to get them there. She’s evil like that.

Website: https://natasha-knight.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natashaknightauthor
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheKnightSpot
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/NatashaKnight13
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natashaknight13/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/natashaknight13/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6478732.Natasha_Knight
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/natasha-knight
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2DWdlEu
NL Signup:https://natasha-knight.com

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