Monthly Archives: May 2024

Now and Forever (Brutal Vows 1) by Aleatha Romig-review tour

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Now and Forever (Brutal Vows 1) by Aleatha Romig-review tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 13, 2024

Arranged marriage, age-gap, mafia/cartel romance

Capo to the Luciano Famiglia was my birthright.

The cruelty needed to succeed in this life has been beaten into me since I was a young boy. My father, Vincent Luciano, taught by example and with the slap of his hand. My independent streak took me down paths my father would never have gone. With our enemies gaining strength, it is my idea to attempt an alliance with an unlikely bedfellow.

The Roríguez Cartel and the Luciano Famiglia are improbable partners, yet even Vincent Luciano can’t deny the possible benefits. The only way to solidify the deal is for me to marry Catalina Ruiz, the eldest daughter of Andres Ruiz, a top lieutenant in the Roríguez Cartel.

Catalina is young, beautiful, and thinks she understands the path she is being forced to follow. There is no way for her to know the monster she is about to wed. A man doesn’t become a made man at thirteen if he is capable of love. That emotion is beyond my scope of expertise. Saving the famiglia is my goal. And once this alliance is made, ours will be but the first of the brutal vows exchanged.

•••••

REVIEW:NOW AND FOREVER is the first instalment in Aleatha Romig’s contemporary, adult BRUTAL VOWS dark, erotic, Mafia romance series. This is soon to be capo of the Luciano Famiglia, thirty-five year old Dario Famiglia, and twenty-four year old, Cartel princess Catalina Ruiz’s story line.

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

Told from dual first person perspectives (Dario and Catalina) NOW AND FOREVER follows in the aftermath of the arranged marriage between our story line couple. In an effort to secure position, and shore up powers, Andres Ruiz, head of the Mexican Cartel, offered up his daughter to the Italian Mafia, wherein, she would marry soon to be capo Dario Luciano. All was not well with the Luciano Famiglia, of Kansas City, a power struggle for the seat at the top, was about to rain down, targeting our story line heroine, and all the women who came before. Dario Luciano has worked his way to the top of the food chain but a betrayal would threaten the peace, and the relationship with his young wife. What ensues is the building relationship between Dario and Catalina, and the potential fall-out as deception comes at a cost, and Dario must take action before more innocent lives are lost.

The world building reveals some of the back story and history between the members of the Luciano Famiglia: the fight for control, and the betrayal that forces Dario to destroy those who would destroy everyone else. Catalina’s never expected to be ‘sold’ to the highest bidder, and rumors about her intended threatened any sense of normality our heroine had hoped for the future.

The relationship between Dario and Catalina begins as an arranged marriage in which Catalina is a pawn used to bargain her father’s position of power.Raised to know her place in the Cartel society, Catalina was not surprised but expected never expected to find herself married to the Italian Mafia. Dario Luciano’s rise to the top meant choosing a suitable wife ; a woman who is completely aware of the lifestyle of a mobster; a woman whose duty is to stand by his side. From the outset, Dario warns he is a violent man but the women in his life never have to fear his temper or loss of control. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and powerful secondary and supporting characters including Catalina’s sister Camila, brother Em, and their father Andres Ruiz; Dario’s brother Dante, their sister Mia, and their father Vincent, as well as Dario’s brother in law Rocco Moretti, housekeeper Contessa, extended family members, friends, and security. The requisite evil has many faces.

NOW AND FOREVER is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, secrets and lies, family and friendships, acceptance and love. The premise is dramatic and impassioned but not as dark as some other Mafia story lines. The characters are strong and committed; the romance is seductive.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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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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The Hunter’s Daughter by Nicola Solvinic – a Review

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The Hunter’s Daughter by Nicola Solvinic – a Review

 

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Description:
A hypnotic, sinister debut mystery about a seemingly good cop who is secretly the daughter of a notorious serial killer.

Anna Koray escaped her father’s darkness long ago. When she was a girl, her childhood memories were sealed away from her conscious mind by a controversial hypnosis treatment. She’s now a decorated sheriff’s lieutenant serving a rural county, conducting an ordinary life far from her father’s shadow.

When Anna kills a man in the line of duty, her suppressed memories return. She dreams of her beloved father, his hands red with blood, surrounded by flower-decked corpses he had sacrificed to the god of the forest.

To Anna’s horror, a serial killer emerges who is copying her father – and who knows who she really is. Is her father still alive, or is this the work of another? Will the killer expose her, destroying everything she has built for herself? Does she want him to?

But as she haunts the forest, using her father’s tricks to the hunt the killer, will she find what she needs most…or lose herself in the gathering darkness?

 

 

Review:

The Hunter’s Daughter by Nicola Solvinic is an exciting debut thriller. I did not know what to expect, when I started reading this book; but this turned out to be a fantastic story that kept me on the edge of my seat. I am also amazed that this is Nicola Solvinic’s debut, and I will be checking her out in the future.  Well done.

Anna Koray, our heroine, manage to escape her father being a serial killer (Forest Strangler) many years ago. When he was imprisoned, her mother gave her up for adoption, and a psychiatrist helped seal (hypnosis) away from her mind the terrible memories. Anna was adopted, with a new name and loved her new family; when she is older, she became a decorated police lieutenant.

The story begins when Anna, off duty, responds to a domestic assault call, since she was nearby. Anna finds herself in the middle of an assault, and ends up killing the man in the line of duty; with her suffering serious injuries. While in recovery, some of those suppressed memories of her father return. When a number of women turn up murdered, a serial killer using the same copycat MO of her father emerges.  Though this is decades later, she begins to remember much of the past, as Anna tries to interview those who were victims, as well as her estranged mother, who abandoned her. Anna also begins to get cell phone messages revealing that he knows who she is, her father’s daughter (Elena). Anna is deep into trying to solve the case, especially to keep her real identity a secret, which would threaten everything she has built. 

What follows is an exciting, intense, suspenseful story with so many twists and turns along the way, which kept me unable to put the book down.  I will not give any spoilers, as this is a book you need to read from start to finish.  When Anna’s memories slowly return, we get to see her relationship with her father, as well as her mother, and eventually finding out at such a young age that her father a killer.

The Hunter’s Daughter was an excellent psychological thriller, that was captivating and haunting, keeping us guessing. The Hunter’s Daughter was a wild ride throughout, and so very well written by Nicola Solvinic. I am amazed how this is Solvinic’s debut novel.  I suggest you read The Hunter’s Daughter, as this was a fantastic read. 

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

 

 

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A Fearless Memory (Oil Knights 4) by Marie Johnston-review

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A Fearless Memory (Oil Knights 4) by Marie Johnston-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 16, 2024

The only thing I admire more than the old farmhouse next door is the guy who owns it. My best friend’s brother.

I didn’t mean to give my hot neighbor a full peep show when my puppy locks me outside in nothing but a towel. Yet Austen Knight pretends he didn’t see everything and offers me an interior design job—help him renovate the farmhouse I’ve adored since I was a kid.

I’m a single mom trying to run a business in a small town. I can’t be alone with Austen day in and day out without igniting rumors that could hurt the career I’ve worked so hard for. But I need the money, and he’s leaving after the house is done and goes on the market.

Turns out, renovating with him is fun. Working with him is addicting. And I look forward to our cold beer together after a long day. When works turns to pleasure, I should put a stop to what we’re doing, it’s not professional, but I can’t.

Austen reignites something in me that I left behind long ago. He’s become so much more than my friend’s brother and my neighbor, but he’s going to be gone soon. Guys always leave in the end. I’ll be a struggling single mom again, and he’ll be nothing but a fearless memory.

••••••

REVIEW:Friends to lovers. Best friends brother. Not always my favourite genres, but I do love this series and this author always writes a good book, so here we go…..

Both points of view are in this book, and that’s something I really like to read.

Austen Knight hasn’t had much to say in the previous books. But his presence is felt in this one. Not a grumpy reclusive character I was expecting. He’s funny, charming and a thoughtful character. But he’s not going to stay forever, once the house he’s living in is remodelled he’s leaving again!

We’ve seen Vienne is previous books, so I was glad she finally got a story. Vienne is working hard at building her career. She loves her interior designing business, it’s been hard but rewarding. If only she could put her feelings in a box for Austen and bury them, it would be so much easier working for him! She doesn’t need gossip about them sabotaging her business. And anyway what’s the point in getting attached, he won’t be around forever?!

Whilst dancing around each other and their feelings, Austen really helps her with her confidence, she’s unsure about her choice of business, unsure about herself and just a bag of indecision all round. And in return Vienne has helped Austen with his issues concerning his childhood (not going to say too much as I think it’s part of the story.) They are great together and really complement each other, but with the elephant in the room (Austen’s imminent departure) neither want to commit to anything more than a little fun…..
But if gossips find out about them, then how will the town view her? Will she lose the business she’s been working so hard to build?

So can Austen stay? Can Vienne make a go of her business?
And can we have Eliot’s book soon 😜

Another great story about a family who never seem to have a shortage of people to chat about. A little angst, a few naughty 😜 scenes and when we finally get down to business 🥵 wow!

So do you need to read in order? No, not really, they all stand on their own pretty well, there are few people we e met before pop in and out, but if you’ve not read them before it won’t detract from the story. But I’ve read and loved them all, and at some point I’m going back from the beginning to reconnect.

Grab the book, you won’t be sorry.

Reading Order and Previous reviews
A Reckless Memory
A Temporary Memory
An Unfinished Memory

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie 🦋

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Marie Johnston is a RITA® Finalist, and a best-selling and award-winning writer of paranormal and contemporary romance – and an avid reader of them both.

Several years ago, when kids started outnumbering adults in the house, Marie Johnston left her job as a public health microbiologist to stay at home. Settling into working part-time and shuttling kids around gave Marie the opportunity to think about what she wanted to be when she grew up. A die-hard science geek, she explored her previously thought to be non-existent creative side after much time spent making snowman crafts and coloring princesses. Having entertained thoughts of writing a book one day then subsequently deciding it would be too hard, she finally put the figurative pen to paper and began to type – and fell in love with storytelling.

The Sigma Menace is the first series by Marie with Fever Claim being her first book EVER. She is humbled by the fact that people are willing to read to her books and looks forward to keeping readers entertained for many years.

Marie lives with her husband and four kids in the Upper Midwest where the summers are gorgeous, the winters are brutal, and spring and fall are luxuries.

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POISON AND WINE by Katie Ashley-review tour

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POISON AND WINE by Katie Ashley-review tour

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 9, 2024

Caterina
As the only daughter of a formidable capo, my existence unfolded within the confines of a gilded cage. At eighteen, I would become a pawn in the intricate game of power, destined to be wed to a high-ranking member of my father’s regime. My fate oscillated between my father’s grasp and that of my future husband. Fleeing was not an option; they would track me down relentlessly. In an act of both self-preservation and rebellion, I sought refuge in a local convent—the sole sanctuary untouched by the shadows of the mafia. Yet, before I could take my final vows, the devil himself knocked at my door — a devastatingly handsome blonde-haired, blue-eyed rogue. With an Irish accent that sent shivers down my spine, he declared me his future wife. No one had touched me; no one would. But despite my aversion to a forced marriage, an irresistible attraction brewed between us— for he was both poison and wine.

Callum
When I abducted a nun, my expectations were simple—she’d be submissive, pliable, the ideal mafia wife. Little did I imagine that the fiery brunette would wield a mouth and body I craved, both in and out of the bedroom. She was a means to an end—a marriage forged out of convenience, a strategic alliance with an enemy family to solidify our standing in the underworld. Tradition dictated that I claim her, yet the last thing I’d do is coerce her. She won’t be forced. I promised she would beg me to take her, and anyone who dared to touch her would die. For she was mine and mine alone.

In the unforgiving realm of the underworld, brace yourself for an electrifying romance pulsating with danger and desire.

•••••

REVIEW: POISON AND WINE is the first instalment in Katie Ashley’s contemporary, adult, Mafia romance series. This is thirty year old, head of the Irish Mafia leader Callum Kavanaugh, and twenty-one year old, Italian Mafia princess Caterina Neretti’s story line.

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

Told from dual first person perspectives (Caterina and Callum) POISON AND WINE follows in the wake of the abduction of our story line heroine. Several years earlier, in an effort to escape an arranged marriage, Caterina Neretti would soon find a home in a local Italian convent. Fast forward three years, Caterina would find herself the captive of Irish mob leader Callum Kavanaugh, a man who is determined to claim our heroine body and soul. Callum needs the marriage to further his power in the criminal underworld but Callum never expected to face down a spitfire of a woman who is determined to make his life a living h&ll. What ensues is the rapidly building relationship between Callum and Caterina, and the potential fall-out as someone else is taking aim at our story line couple.

The world building focuses on two families with similar yet different styles of ruling and control. Both families have seen the fall-out of too much power, wherein the youngest female members become pawns, facing a life pain and fear.

The relationship between Callum and Caterina begins as an abduction. Caterina found seclusion with the sisters in Italy, and having yet to take her final vows, Caterina would come face to face with her future in the guise of Callum Kavanaugh. Not only did Caterina gain a husband but alone with her own biological brothers, several more brothers who would protect with their lives. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate and seductive.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, energetic and charismatic secondary and supporting characters including both Callum siblings (Quinn, Dare, Maeve), their mother Orla, and Caterina’s brothers (Rafe, Leo and Gianni), as well as Callum’s uncle Seamus, and Caterina’s father Alessio. The requisite evil has many faces. Here’s hoping the author has plans for all of Caterina and Callum’s siblings.

POISON AND WINE is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, family and relationships, forgiveness and love. The premise is dramatic and intense; the romance is impassioned; the characters are determined and dynamic.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Katie Ashley is a New York Times, USA Today, and Amazon Best-Selling author of both Indie and Traditionally published books. She lives outside of Atlanta, Georgia with her daughter, Olivia, and her spoiled mutt, Duke. She has a slight obsession with Pinterest, The Golden Girls, Shakespeare, Harry Potter, Star Wars, and Scooby-Doo.

With a BA in English, a BS in Secondary English Education, and a Masters in Adolescent English Education, she spent eleven years teaching both middle and high school English, as well as a few adjunct college English classes. As of January 2013, she hung up her red pen and expo markers to become a full-time writer. Each and every day she counts her blessings to be able to do her dream job.

Although her roots are firmly planted in the red Georgia clay, she loves traveling the country and world to meet readers and hang out with fellow authors. When she’s not writing or chasing down her toddler, you might find her watching reruns of The Golden Girls, reading historical biographies, along with romance novels, or spending way too much time on Facebook.

CONNECT WITH KATIE

➜ NEWSLETTER: http://bit.ly/2ljVosh
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A Season for her Forbidden Earl by Julia Justiss-review

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A Season for her Forbidden Earl (Least Likely to Wed 3) by Julia Justiss-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 23 2024

Step into 1830s London as a lady gets her second-chance Season!

Determined to stay a spinster

For her second Season!

When an unexpected windfall gives Lady Margaret the chance for another Season, she relishes the opportunity to see her friends again, including Julian Randall, Earl of Atherton. She has no need to find a husband, and widower Julian has sworn off the marriage mart, so escorting each other is the perfect platonic arrangement. Until a new, exhilarating attraction simmers between them—one this respectable spinster is forbidden from indulging in…isn’t she?

••••••

REVIEW:You can always rely on a good story from this author, her descriptive narrative and characters will have you reading until the last page is read 😊

Lady Margaret d’Aubignon created a scandal when she publicly refused a suitor her father had chosen for her (it was one of his friends!) so she was sent to the countryside. But unbeknownst to her father, her brother had invested her inheritance, and she now had more than enough money to be independently wealthy. Returning back to the city without her fathers support is something Margret is ecstatic about. Catching up with her friends is something she’s looking forward to.

A friends to lovers read that has all the historical information and (Slow burn) romance that I come to expect from the author.

So will this friendship with no “benefits” become more?

Margret has her escort for the correct society requirements, they can laugh and chat without having to worry that it’s a courtship. But doesn’t that negate the society’s reason for being? It’s to find a husband surely? And what if Julian’s needs for a wife? Being around Margret all the time must stifle his chances of a bride? Well actually no, being a widower gives him breathing space, he can use the sadness he still feels about his wife to avoid the marriage trap (for a while at least.)

Julian never felt real emotion for his wife, and that’s something he struggles with, along with his two sons, but feelings for his “friend” Margret has him thinking that marriage the second time around might be easier. But how to broach the subject without frightening his friend away has him in a quandary!

This is the third book in the series, it’s not necessary to read the other two before this one, but there is a series of events that occur in the three books that might be a little confusing.

I liked both Margret and Julian, they had a depth of character that pulls you into the story. The friendship that slowly turns into something else.

There is a little angst and a little betrayal, but I think it adds a little something to the book, otherwise it’s just another historical romance.

If you love your historical romance with marvellous characters and a good storyline, then give this book a look. You won’t be disappointed.

Click HERE for Julie’s review of book one A SEASON OF FLIRTATION

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B. 🦋

Award-winning historical romance author Julia Justiss has written more than thirty-five novels and novellas set in the English Regency and the Texas Hill Country.

A voracious reader who began jotting down plot ideas for Nancy Drew novels in her third grade spiral, Julia has published poetry and worked as a business journalist.

She and her husband live in East Texas, where she continues to craft the stories she loves. Check her website for details about her books, chat with her on social media, and follow her on Bookbub and Amazon to receive notices about her latest releases. For special subscriber giveaways, discounted books, character sketches and more, sign up for her newsletter at:

https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/h7r3n5

Website: www.juliajustiss.com
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Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/63842.Julia_Justiss

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Julian (Immortals of New Orleans 14) by Kym Grosso-review

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Julian (Immortals of New Orleans 14) by Kym Grosso-review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 2024

Born into royalty, Alpha Julian Fortes has been to hell and back. A lone wolf, he’s fought the ancient curse that’s plagued his family for centuries. When he saves a mysterious woman, his wolf will no longer be denied his mate or his pack.

Cassia Luna has learned to cloak her presence from the hellhounds and stay one step ahead of the evil that pursues her. Psychic abilities keep her alive, allowing her to sense the predators before they strike. As Cassia is forced to trust the charismatic Alpha, she resists her desire to submit and reveal her true nature.

The Prince of Wolves must confront destructive evil forces that lurk in the shadows. But will the Alpha destroy his enemies before they kill him? And after living a lifetime alone, will he succumb to the visceral need to claim Cassia, acknowledging the soul binding connection between an Alpha and his mate?
Julian is the 12th novel in The Immortals of New Orleans series. Although many of my readers prefer reading the series in order, each book is written to be read standalone.

•••••

REVIEW:JULIAN is the fourteenth instalment in Kym Grosso’s contemporary, adult IMMORTALS OF NEW ORLEANS erotic, paranormal, fantasy romance series. This is ancient shifter, Prince Alpha Julian Fortes, and Cassia Luna’s story line. JULIAN can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading from book six onwards for back story and cohesion.

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

Told from omniscient third person perspectives (Julian and Cassia) JULIAN follow in the aftermath of the rescue of our story line heroine. Alpha Julia Fortes believes he had rescued a human female but her ‘disappearance’ meant she was something more.Tracking down the woman that had peaked and interested his inner wolf, Julian would discover Cassia Luna is much more than human,Cassia’s premonitions would set into motion a war between Earth and H&ll. Cassia Luna’s existence and supernatural abilities are rare even within the world of the paranormal but Cassia never expected to find her mate in Alpha Prince Julian Fortes. A series of dreams and message pushes Cassia on a path towards her future, a future involving a demonic cult, witches, shifters, vampires, dragons, fae and the search for the ‘vessel’ that may free them all. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Julian and Cassia, and the potential fall-out when something sets their sights on our story line couple.

The world building, is once again, detailed and complex, with the inclusion and mention of many previous story line conflicts and premises. Someone or something has set a plan into motion to secure the most powerful supernatural creatures, and in this, shifter royalty, and a one-of-a-kind magical being is the perfect prize to obtain the ultimate control.

The relationship between Julian and Cassia begins as a rescue, then a search for our story line heroine. Cassia’s dreams / nightmare warn of impending death and destruction, and the hounds of h&ll are taking aim at our story line heroine. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative including an MFM sexual situation.

There is another large ensemble cast of colorful, powerful and energetic secondary and supporting supernatural characters, many of whom has been manipulated and magically forced into a world not of their own. Rafe, vampire/wolf hybrid returns, as he struggle to come to terms with both sides of his new existence.

JULIAN is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, secrets and lies, family and friendships, relationships and love. The premise is impassioned, dramatic and compelling; the romance is provocative and seductive; the characters are dynamic and charismatic.

Previous reviews and reading order
Kade’s Dark Embrace
Luca’s Magic Embrace
Tristan’s Lyceum Wolves
Logan’s Acadian Wolves
Leopold’s Wicked Embrace
Dimitri
Jax
Jake
Quintus
Hunter
Christmas Embrace
Victor

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

FREE-> KADE’S DARK EMBRACE:  Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / Smashwords

LUCA’S MAGIC EMBRACE: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / Smashwords

TRISTAN’S LYCEUM WOLVES: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk Barnes and Noble/ KOBO / Smashwords

ebook only 99¢
LOGAN’S ACADIAN WOLVES: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / Smashwords

LEOPOLD’S WICKED EMBRACE: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble /

DIMITRI: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

JAX: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /

JAKE:  Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / ibooks / Smashwords /

QUINTUS:Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Google Play

HUNTER: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /

Christmas Embrace: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo /

VICTOR: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play /

Follow: Goodreads / Website /Twitter /Facebook /

Sign Up for Kym’s NEWSLETTER

Kym GrossoKym Grosso is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the award-winning paranormal romance series, The Immortals of New Orleans. She also has a new erotic romantic suspense series, Club Altura Romance. In addition to romance novels, Kym has written and published several articles about autism, and is passionate about autism advocacy. She is also a contributing essay author in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Raising Kids on the Spectrum.

Kym enjoys reading, tennis, zumba, traveling and spending time with her husband and children. New Orleans, with its rich culture, history and unique cuisine, is one of her favorite places to visit. Also, she loves traveling just about anywhere that has a beach or snow-covered mountains. On any given night, when not writing her own books, Kym can be found reading her Kindle, which is filled with hundreds of romances.

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Skies Over Caledonia (The Highlands)by Samantha Young-review tour

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Skies Over Caledonia (The Highlands 4) by Samantha Young-review tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 9, 2024

He’s a down-to-earth highland farmer. She’s the rebellious daughter of Hollywood royalty. They might seem like they’re from different worlds, but that won’t stop them from engaging in a marriage of convenience…

It’s been five years since Jared McCulloch’s grandfather Collum passed away and he inherited his farm in the Scottish Highlands. After his grandad saved him from his past life, Jared is determined to honor Collum’s legacy. But not only has a series of bad luck put him in danger of losing the farm, his estranged father is disputing the will. In a desperate situation, Jared realizes he’ll do just about anything to save the land.
Even marrying Allegra Howard, a woman he’s avoided at all costs.
A woman who tempts him beyond reason.

There’s only one place that makes Allegra Howard feel safe; one place that feeds her artist’s soul. Allegra wants to settle down in Scotland and expand her business. But there’s a hitch: immigration intends to return her to US soil.
Panicked, Allegra finds the one person just as desperate as she is. The same person she’s lusted after for years. In exchange for marrying her, she’ll invest financially in Jared McCulloch’s farm.

However, living together only forces them to acknowledge their searing mutual attraction. And with it comes an undeniable emotional connection Jared’s not sure he’s ready for.
Yet, blurring the lines of their arrangement is the least of his concerns when someone begins terrorizing the farm.
Allegra and Jared came together to save what matters most and now that might just be each other. And unless they can figure out which of their pasts has returned to torment them, they could lose their chance at a real future together…

••••

REVIEW:SKIES OVER CALEDONIA is the fourth instalment in Samantha Young’s contemporary adult THE HIGHLANDS erotic, romance series. This is thirty year old Scottish farmer Jared McCulloch, and twenty-five year old, American artist Allegra Howard’s story line. SKIES OVER CALEDONIA can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary . Allegra is Aria Howard’s younger sister (Among the Heather 2).

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

Told from dual first person perspectives (Jared and Allegra) SKIES OVER CALEDONIA follows the return of Allegra Howard to the Scottish Highlands. Approximately five years earlier, Allegra, visiting her sister in Scotland, met and was rejected by our story line hero but the rejection was in response to Allegra’s attitude, and in this, Jared wanted nothing to do with Allegra Howard. Fast forward to present day, Allegra, having travelled back and forth, and staying one too many times, finds herself facing deportation, and when her sister refuses to help, Allegra makes a desperate and despondent Jared McCulloch an offer he cannot refuse. Jared is struggled to keep his grandfather’s farm from collapse, and a quick inflection of cash is just what he needs. What ensues is the marriage of convenience between Jared and Allegra, and the potential fall-out when our couple are targeted in separate instances

The world building follows the acrimonious relationship between Jared and Allegra. Jared is about to lose his grandfather’s farm, and Allegra is about to be deported for staying too long without the proper documentation but family and friends refuse to accept our couple are marrying for anything but love, suspecting the reasons are exactly what they appear to be. Allegra Howard is the daughter of Hollywood royalty yet her life has been anything but. Jared was raised by his grandfather, and in this, his biological parents were never a part of his life but his father’s return threatens everything between Allegra and Jared going forward.

The relationship between Jared and Allegra is tempestuous at best. Allegra has lusted after Jared from the first time they met but Jared struggled to see beneath the glamor and money of Hollywood royalty. Believing Allegra was nothing more than a spoiled nepo-baby, Jared struggles to accept the woman with whom he is falling in love. The $ex scenes are erotic and passionate without the use of over the top sexually graphic language and text.

The secondary and supporting characters are colorful and dynamic including Allegra’s less than accepting sister Aria and her husband North, and Sarah and Theo Cavendish, as well as the return of Allegra’s parents Chiara and Wesley Howard, and the introduction of Jared’s father Hamish McCulloch.

SKIES OVER CALEDONIA is a story of power and control, secrets and lies, betrayal and jealousy, family and friendships, acceptance and love. The premise is dramatic, captivating and intense; the romance is provocative and seductive; the characters are determined, desperate, charismatic and broken.

Reading Order and Previous reviews
Beyond the Thistles
Among The Heather
Through the Glen

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Samantha Young is the New York Times,  USA Today  and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of adult contemporary romances, including the On Dublin Street series and Hero, as well as the New Adult duology Into the Deep and Out of the Shallows.  Every Little Thing, the second book in her new Hart’s Boardwalk series, will be published by Berkley in March 2017. Before turning to contemporary fiction, she wrote several young adult paranormal and fantasy series, including the amazon bestselling Tale of Lunarmorte trilogy. Samantha’s debut YA contemporary novel The Impossible Vastness of Us was published by Harlequin TEEN in ebook & hardback June 2017. Play On is an adult contemporary romance and the first in a brand new series set in Scotland. Villain is a companion novella to the New York Times bestselling romance HERO.

Samantha has been nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award 2012 for Best Author and Best Romance for On Dublin Street, Best Romance 2014 for Before Jamaica Lane, and Best Romance 2015 for Hero. On Dublin Street, a #1 bestseller in Germany, was the Bronze Award Winner in the LeserPreis German Readers Choice Awards for Best Romance 2013, Before Jamaica Lane the Gold Medal Winner for the LeserPreis German Readers Choice Awards for Best Romance 2014 and Echoes of Scotland Street the Bronze Medal Winner for the LeserPreis German Readers Choice Awards for Best Romance 2015.

Samantha is currently published in 30 countries and is a #1 international bestselling author.

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WELL AND TRULY PUCKED (My Hockey Romance 4) by Lauren Blakely

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🩵WELL AND TRULY PUCKED (My Hockey Romance 4) by Lauren Blakely🩵

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 9, 2024

I swear I only asked one hot hockey-playing friend to give me romance lessons for the week, but three hockey stars volunteered…

The post breakup plan was simple – escape from my toxic ex to a vacation rental and stay far away from men.

But thanks to a booking snafu I’m accidentally sharing it with three hot hockey players. One’s flirty, one’s broody, one’s a cheeky Brit, and they’re all the most attentive men I’ve ever met.

After a couple of glasses of champagne, I’m telling them about the contest my ex is running on his dating advice web site. The topic? What makes a great boyfriend, and I want to submit a column.

All three offer to show me every single thing I’ve been missing in and out of bed.

We make a deal for one week only. It’s only for revenge, of course. I work for the other hockey team in the city so it’d be a big mistake to truly get involved with a rival, let alone three .

Even though I melt under their touch. They show me what it means to be adored, cherished and romanced .

But as the week ticks on, what started as revenge fast turns into me giving my heart to three men I can’t have. Looks like I’m well and truly pucked.

••••

REVIEW: WELL AND TRULY PUCKED is the fourth instalment in Lauren Blakely’s contemporary, adult MY HOCKEY ROMANCE erotic, reverse harem romance series. This is yoga instructor Briar Delaney, and Golden State Foxes hockey players Gavin Worthy, Hollis Bouchard and Rhys Corbyn. WELL AND TRULY PUCKED can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

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

Told from four first person perspectives (Briar, Gavin, Hollis, Rhys) WELL AND TRULY PUCKED follows in the wake of Briar Delaney discovering she is currently homeless in the wake of her boyfriend’s affair. With all of her worldly possessions in two garbage bags and her Dachshund Donut, Briar quickly realizes her ex took the cat, leaving her struggling to regain control. With the help of her yoga students and hockey players Briar regains ‘custody’ of ‘Frances Furbottom’ but in the aftermath realizes she has no place to live. Enter Gavin, Hollis and Rhys, the men with whom Briar will fall in love. What ensues is the building relationship between Briar, and Gavin, Hollis and Rhys, and the potential fall-out as their time together comes to a close as Briar finds a new place to live.

The world building focuses on the building relationship between Briar and the three men in her life, as well as her need to seek revenge against an ex who is taking aim at our story line heroine.

The relationship between Briar and her three men is erotic and provocative. Each man offers something different in her life but it is Gavin who is struggling with his place in the relationship. Promising to remain friends with all three men, Briar battles between head and heart knowing she has fallen for all men equally but Briar is about to become a distraction no one needs. The $ex scenes are intimate and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

Briar’s best friend Ivy Samuels (Puck Yes 2); Briar’s father Henry Delaney, his girlfriend Clara, and Briar’s ex boyfriend Steven.

WELL AND TRULY PUCKED is a story of friendships, rivalry, acceptance and love. The premise is riveting; the romance is spellbinding; the characters are determined and charismatic.

Previous Reviews

Double Pucked
Puck Yes
Thoroughly Pucked

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

A #1 New York Times Bestselling author, Lauren Blakely is known for her contemporary romance style that’s hot, sweet and sexy. She lives in California with her family and has plotted entire novels while walking her dogs. With fourteen New York Times bestsellers, her titles have appeared on the New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestseller Lists more than eighty times, and she’s sold more than 2 million books. In October she’ll release HARD WOOD, a sexy, standalone romantic comedy. To receive an email when Lauren releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter! laurenblakely.com/newsletter

Website ** Facebook ** Twitter ** Newsletter ** Goodreads

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