Rumor Has It (Longwood U 1) by Crea Reitan-review tour

Posted on November 16, 2024 by Sandy

💜Rumor Has It (Longwood U 1) by Crea Reitan-review tour💜

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date NOVEMBER 14, 2024

The shiver of something new…

Dak

I don’t know what it is about this man that has captivated me like no one else. It’s made me question everything I think I know about myself. But that’s fine – I’ll obsess from afar until I graduate and move on with my life.

Then I’m handed an exclusive invitation to Rumor, the frat’s ‘gay chicken’ club that performs in front of a camera. The one who doesn’t back out first wins cash. Thinking maybe I can clear up this curiosity once and for all if I try my hand at dick, I go.

Imagine my surprise when the man I’m paired with is none other than the one guy that’s caught my attention. My only problem is the cameras freak me out and I know one of these times when I run, it’ll be the last time I see him.

Sparrow

Rumor is a game for straight men to use whatever excuse they can come up with to get acquainted with a dick not their own. I’m the unbeatable – a fan favorite. But I have a secret – I’m already gayer than a pink unicorn wearing a tutu. Still, I get invited back time and time again.

It’s all business until the most beautiful brown eyes look at me and the sexiest body is pressed against mine. However, this fucking man keeps running away. Thankfully, I’m able to give him private lessons in fucking a man, something I’m all to happy to oblige.

But Dak is more than just a good time. He’s a threat to everything I think I know, forcing me to acknowledge that maybe there’s something deeper between us.

Rumor has it all it takes is a single person to turn your life upside down. I think I just met that person and I’m not sure which way is up or if I’m going to crash and burn before I find the surface.

•••••••

REVIEW: We have the next chapter in the hockey world that of my favourite authors has created.

The kids have grown up and are ready for their stories. If you’ve followed/read books written by the author, then you’ll know that these have come from different series, the author has stated many times that her worlds just keep getting larger, and the cast of characters are large. (Which I love)

There is no need to read the parents books to enjoy this one, I have, so I was thrilled when I discovered that this book would be a continuation (not a spin off) of that world. We even get to catch up with families that are related to this story.

I must admit I didn’t know what a “gay chicken” was, looked it up… basically two straight men play at being gay until one of them “chickens” out. And Sparrow is excellent at the game, there is also money to win. But what most people don’t know, or look past is that in fact Sparrow is gay! He’s never hidden it, but he’s not your “typical” gay (whatever that means!!)

So both are invited to the club Rumor, (but Dak doesn’t realise that Sparrow is a regular), Dak immediately recognises his opponent. It’s only the guy he’s seen round campus, it’s only the guy he’s been secretly obsessing over! The “game” starts, and both are into each other, and the game. Until Dak remembers they are being filmed…. He bolts… leaving Sparrow a little sad!

Another encounter ends up with a different result. Dak says he’s wondering if he’s bisexual, as he’s only been dating girls. But he’s been thinking about Sparrow constantly. Sparrow doesn’t want a relationship, so friends with benefits suits him fine.

But we all know that won’t last for long.

I liked how this book developed, there isn’t a lot of hockey in here (considering Dak comes from hockey royalty) but I really wasn’t bothered, I was fascinated with the dynamics. I wanted to catch up with family. I loved how they were with their friends, I wanted to live in this world.

I also love the authors note at the end of her books. It challenges us (in a good way) to see better, not to make snap/harsh judgements before getting to know one another.

There is a warning about a few triggers in here. There are a few moments that had me red eyed and snotty, but mainly this book left me all warm and fuzzy.

I can’t wait to read the next book.

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!

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If You Need Me (Toronto Terror 3) by Helena Hunting-review

Posted on November 15, 2024 by Sandy

If You Need Me (Toronto Terror 3) by Helena Hunting-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 14, 2024

I’ve been secretly in love with Wilhelmina Reddi-Grinst since the third grade.

I should be the one taking her to our small-town high school reunion. The prom king finally gets his chance with the valedictorian.
Except she hates me.

To the world, I’m a pro hockey player with a million dollar smile.
To Hemi, I’m the menace who (accidentally) sank her bike to the bottom of the lake.

I never thought I’d be able to right my wrongs until she took the team’s PR job.
I’d hoped I was making progress, winning her over—one geriatric polka party at a time.

Until I got drunk one night and made a mistake. A very big mistake.
Now the world thinks we’re both very much in love—except Hemi is absolutely in loathe.

To save our jobs and reputations, we have to convince all our friends, family, and bosses that our fake relationship is the real deal.

I’ll do anything to protect her, especially if it means I get to be the best boyfriend Hemi never expected.

•••••

REVIEW:IF YOU NEED ME is the third instalment in Helena Hunting’s contemporary, adult TORONTO TERRO erotic, hockey romance series. This is PR agent for the Toronto Terror Wilhelmina ‘Hemi’ Reddi-Grinst, and team player Dallas Bright’s story line. IF YOU NEED ME can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary . Dallas and Hemi were first introduced in books one and two.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Hemi and Dallas) IF YOU NEED ME focuses on the enemies to lovers, fake relationship between our story line couple. Wilhelmina Reddi-Grinst and Dallas Bright were childhood friends but high school proved to be difficult for Wilhelmina, having been bullied and harassed by her fellow students. Dallas Bright watched from the sidelines as the woman he loved was destroyed by those she should have called friends but a misunderstanding pushed Wilhelmina too far, and in the ensuing ten years, our heroine struggled to forget the betrayal brought about by Dallas Bright. Fast forward to present day, Dallas is a player, and Hemi is the PR director for the Toronto Terror, and their upcoming ten year high school reunion threatens any and all of Hemi’s hard fought stability. Knowing Hemi’s high school bullies would be chomping at the bit to destroy her life, Dallas makes Hemi an offer she cannot refuse. A fake relationship and engagement to prove she is worthy of love and affection but all does not go according to plan as Dallas wants something more, and Hemi struggles with his past betrayals.

The world building focuses on issues of low self esteem for both Hemi Reddi-Grinst and Dallas Bright. Dallas struggles to forgive himself for breaking our story line heroine’s heart, and Hemi battles between head and heart fearing a repeat of her entire high school career. Hemi is an assertive and often combative heroine who has spent most of her life facing down the bullies who were taking constant aim, and in this, her reputation made her a target of workplace harassment.

The relationship between Hemi and Dallas is an enemies to frenemies to lovers relationship; a fake engagement meant to prove they had both moved on from the past, but the past refuses to let go for our story line couple, and Dallas and Hemi are at two different points in their rekindling relationship. The $ex scenes are provocative and passionate without the use of over the top,sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and charismatic secondary and supporting characters including the couples we met in the previous story lines. Family and friends, co-workers and high school bullies, all tame or threaten our couple’s growing relationship and love.

IF YOU NEED ME is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, family and friendships, forgiveness and love. The premise is emotional and heart-wrenching; the romance is flirtatious and inviting; the characters are determined and compelling.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
If You Hate Me
If You Want Me

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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FOLLOW: NYT and USA Today Bestselling author of The PUCKED Series, Helena Hunting lives outside of Toronto with her amazing family and her two awesome cats, who think the best place to sleep is her keyboard. Helena writes everything from contemporary romance to romance comedy, sports romance and angsty new adult romance.

The Shadows Rule All by Abigail Owen – a Review

Posted on November 15, 2024 by Barb

The Shadows Rule All by Abigail Owen – a Review

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Description:
King Eidolon has taken everything.

My throne, my Shadowraith, and even my kingdom. I am a queen with no one to rule, and a tattered army that’s not even mine. And hope is fading fast.

Now the shadows who once tormented Reven live within me, hissing and wheedling—and enticing me to betray my friends. Which could be deadly for us all. Because without the wraith I fell for, without Reven, I am all shadows…and no light.

And the Alignment is almost upon us—the culmination of centuries that have fueled a vengeful king’s festering rage.

We’re outnumbered. We’re underpowered. And even if we could unleash the trapped goddesses, they could destroy the kingdom and everything in it.

Review:

The Shadows Rule All by Abigail Owen is the final book in her Dominions series. Oh my…. Final book in this trilogy, and I’m going to miss it 😞

I loved reading the storylines, watching Meren grow into a real kicka$$ character. Faced with challenge after challenge, she never gave up, although it did come close a few times!!

This book picks up from book two. Can you read this one without reading the first two? You could, but I think you’d be missing out on two fantastic books, and there is information that I felt pertinent to the story (but that’s just my opinion.)

So many characters have come and gone in this trilogy, some I’ve cried over, some I shrugged and moved on…. But all were integral to the story, one was a filler, everyone had their role to play.

Meren and Reven have become one of my favourite couples. Their relationship hasn’t been easy, they’ve fought one another and against this world to be together. And in this book, it’s still no easy task!

Eidolon is still a force to be reckoned with! Although on the ropes, I still wouldn’t count him out just yet! (And I did feel a little sad for him in the prologue 🤫)

The action is nonstop, the pictures in my head were painted so clearly due to the details given by this author. She creates a world you just want to live in, sights and sounds play like a movie in my head. (In fact at some point I’m going to grab the audios.)

Betrayal/suspense/mystery and battles will have you hard pressed to put this book down until the last page! Friends can’t always be trusted! Allies can turn against you, and even family needs to be watched!

There are lots of loose ends that need tying up. There are moments that need to be explained. And there are still loved ones to be rescued! And the author does all that and more!

I don’t want to give too much away, but be prepared for 🤧 and 😱 moments. I’d also say that this book is a little darker than the previous two, there is a warning at the beginning of the book.

I really enjoyed reading this book. I highly recommend it and the previous two. It’s definitely an adventure I’ll be revisiting at some point.

Reviewed by Julie

Copy supplied by Author

The Truths That Deceive by Kristen Luciani-review tour

Posted on November 14, 2024 by Sandy

The Truths That Deceive (Obsidian Knights Secret Society #4) by Kristen Luciani-review tour

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Add The Truths That Deceive to Goodreads: https://tinyurl.com/tttdgr

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 14, 2024

My beautiful captive played the wrong hand when she tried to escape me… My latest assignment should have been easy. Find ex-hacker/rogue CIA agent Calista Price and hand her over to the US government for treason. But Calista is nothing like the desk jockey I expected. She’s a wild card, fiery, seductive, and she feeds into every one of my primal play urges.

Chasing her is addictive. Wrong. She’s young enough to be my daughter, and my mission is to capture her, not ravage her.

None of that stops me from craving her at my deepest levels. Calista infects my blood. She’s got an appetite for the same dirty, twisted games that I do. And she loves being hunted.

But time is short with my shiny new toy. She’s a target for more than just the CIA and others are closing in fast. At the end of the line, there are only two outcomes for Calista.

Prison…or death.

As we fall deeper into our dark, depraved games, I know I can’t give her up. I want all of her – body, mind, and blackened soul that matches my own.

And I’ll destroy anyone who tries to take her from me.

••••••

REVIEW:THE TRUTHS THAT DECEIVE is the fourth instalment in Kristen Luciani’s contemporary, adult OBSIDIAN KNIGHTS SECRET SOCIETY dark, erotic, romance series focusing on a secret society of billionaires and assassins. This is thirty-eight year old, former CIA operative Smith Hunt, and twenty-four year old CIA hacker Calista Hendrix’s story line. THE TRUTHS THAT DECEIVE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary . Smith Hunt is Dakota Hunt’s estranged father (The Desires That Burn).

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise including light Dom / sub and graphic violence, there WILL BE triggers for more sensitive readers. The author includes a list of TW in the book.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Calista and Smith) THE TRUTHS THAT DECEIVE focuses on the hunt and take down of our story line heroine. Calista Hendrix is on the run having uncovered some information on the dark web. The CIA believes Calista is a traitor, and Smith Hunt is tasked with bringing her home but all is not as it appears to be when the truth reveals a much darker scenario including a need for vengeance for our story line heroine.

Once again, the world building is comprehensive and intricate. Calista is keeping the truth of her ‘supposed betrayal’ in the hopes of destroying the people who destroyed her life. As Smith struggles to keep Calista under control, our heroine refuses to sit back watching the world go by. At every opportunity Calista attempts an escape, often placing both of their lives in the direct line of fire.

The relationship between Calista and Smith begins as an assignment but Calista refuses to go quietly, and within hours is forcing Smith’s hand. Calista is not naïve to the in which she works and is currently under watch but she refuses to remain safe when the bad guys are always getting away. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic, and provocative but I dislike the use of a certain four-letter word liberally throughout.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and questionable secondary and supporting characters including many of whom we met in the previous instalments: Mercer, Orion, Malone, Black Widow and Jones, as well a number of CIA operatives and mentors who actions and roles are ambiguous and dubious.

THE TRUTHS THAT DECEIVE is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, exploitation and trafficking, acceptance and love. The premise is detailed, dark, dramatic and intriguing; the romance is aggressive and steamy; the characters are desperate, determined and energetic.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
The Secrets That Kill
The Desires That Burn
The Sins That Ruin

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Kristen Luciani is a USA Today bestselling author of steamy and suspense-filled romance. She’s addicted to kickboxing, Starburst jelly beans, and swooning over dark, broken anti-heroes. Kristen is happily married to her own real-life hero of over 20 years. In addition to penning spicy stories, she also has a part-time job as her three kids’ personal Uber driver, which she manages to successfully juggle along with her other tasks: laundry, cleaning, laundry, cooking, laundry, and caring for her adorable Boston Terrier puppy.

Mafia romance is her passion…and her poison.

My Favorite Holidate by Lauren Blakely-review tour

Posted on November 14, 2024 by Sandy

My Favorite Holidate by Lauren Blakely-review tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 12, 2024

Wanted: hot billionaire to pose as my Christmas boyfriend. Must be willing to make my cheating ex jealous by kissing me under the mistletoe at holiday parties. Bonus if you make him cry.

To my surprise my billionaire boss is more than up for the challenge of coming down the chimney as my holiday boyfriend. The sexy single dad desperately needs a plus one at a Christmas Eve wedding, where he’s the best man and I’m the maid of honor.

And since my ex is in the wedding party too, my boss and I team up as a pair of insta-lovebirds for the holiday season, including during the annual week-long Christmas competition leading up to the snowy destination wedding.

But soon staying up late to string the best popcorn balls ever turns into a scorching night in his arms where the chestnuts aren’t the only thing roasting on the open fire.

Can all these winter wonderland nights seeking revenge turn into the real thing when we return to the office? Or are we destined to go the way of a Christmas tree on New Year’s?

••••••••

REVIEW:MY FAVORITE HOLIDATE by Lauren Blakely is a contemporary, adult, erotic, holiday romance story line set into the author’s LOVE AND HOCKEY series. This is Designer Fable Calloway, and billionaire real estate magnate and football team owner Wilder Blaine’s story line. MY FAVORITE HOLIDATE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Fable was first introduced in The Boyfriend Goal and The Romance Line, books one and two of the author’s LOVE AND HOCKEY SERIES.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Fable and Wilder) MY FAVORITE HOLIDATE follows the fake relationship between designer Fable Calloway and billionaire real estate magnate / single father Wilder Blaine. At the Wilder’s annual Thanksgiving celebration Fable Calloway will discover Brady, her boyfriend of four months found something better to do, the party caterer Iris, and with the hope of not embarrassing those in attendance, Fable keeps the information to herself when at the same Thanksgiving dinner Fable and billionaire Wilder Blaine are asked to be the maid of honor and best man at Charlotte and Leo’s wedding.Working for billionaire Wilder Blaine comes with many perks including an invitation to the Evergreen Falls Annual Best in Snow Winter Competition in Lake Tahoe at Wilder’s Lake Tahoe resort wherein the wedding of Leo and Charlotte will take place but both Wilder and Fable are in need of a plus one, and refusing to be set up or going alone, Wilder and Fable agree to a fake relationship, a relationship that will become all too real with their days and nights spent together. As the wedding and Best in Snow Winter Competition draws near, Wilder and Fable find themselves fake dating, facing an end date, and the reveal of their mutual lie.

The world building follows the fake but building romance and relationship between Wilder and Fable. Wilder is a single father, a billionaire real estate magnate and football team owner who hasn’t had a real relationship in years. With his aunt Bibi always angling to find Wilder someone to love, Wilder is desperate, and makes Fable an offer in the face of her recent break up with Leo’s cousin. Fable is a designer, and is hoping to one day set up her own jewelry store but Fable refuses to let a little heart break stop her forward momentum including falling for our story line hero.Meanwhile Wilder is struggling with his father’s life choices, choices that are costing Wilder both money, and respect from the woman with whom he is falling in love.

The relationship between Fable and Wilder begins as a business arrangement as Fable ‘works’ within Blaine Enterprises, designing merchandise for the football team but Fable is unaware that Wilder has already lost his heart to our story line heroine refusing to cross the invisible line of workplace romances. As one another’s plus ones , Wilder and Fable are required to ‘team up’ for the Best in Snow Competition, a competition that will bring out the competitive nature of everyone, including our story line couple. The $ex scenes are passionate and intimate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are reintroduced Fable’s sister Charlotte and Wilder’s best friend Leo, Wes and Josie (The Boyfriend Goal), Max and Everly (The Romance Line); Wilder’s eleven year old daughter MacKenzie; Wilder’s aunt Bibi; Fable’s ex and Leo’s cousin Brady, caterer Iris, and several close members of Wilder and Fable’s extended yet somewhat dysfunctional families.

MY FAVORITE HOLIDATE is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, family and friendships, relationships and love. The premise is impassioned, encouraging and inviting; the romance is hopeful, sexy and spicy; the characters are quirky, and charismatic.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
The Boyfriend Goal
The Romance Line

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

“Bossy,” she mutters.
I smirk. “Does this surprise you?”
“Not in the least.” Then she murmurs under her breath, a little sensually, “Sir.”
Well, then. That’s a whole lot of info delivered in that tone. I can’t not ask: “So not only does it not surprise you, it sounds like you don’t mind it either?”
She tips her chin up at me, challenging me with, “What do you think?”
I don’t think. I do. I slide my thumb along her pretty chin. God, it feels so good to touch her again. “That you like to give me hell. That you like to keep me on my toes. And that you love to give me a hard time.”
She leans into my touch, almost like she’s saying with her body don’t stop. “And I think you love all those things too,” she says in a husky voice that gives a little hint of her desire.
My thumb travels up to her cheek. She moves with me, her breath gusting across those gorgeous lips. “You’d be right,” I say, heat flaring inside me.

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

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Magic Unmasked/ Magic Undaunted (The Grimm Files) by Delta James

Posted on November 13, 2024 by Sandy

MAGIC UNMASKED/ MAGIC UNDAUNTED (The Grimm Files 5 & 6) by Delta James

Magic Unmasked
The Grimm Files 5
by Delta James
Genre: adult ,contemporary, erotic, paranormal, fantasy romance

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 23, 2024

A ruthless fae enforcer and a shifter must unite to save their worlds—even if it means crossing enemy lines.

Lillith Silverwing is a formidable fae enforcer sent by the High Council to retrieve the elusive Duvall sisters—four powerful fae warriors whose magic could alter the fate of realms. Her mission should be simple, but everything changes when she crosses paths with Ronan Rousseau, a brooding sabretooth shifter scarred by a past marred by fae treachery.

As the last of his lineage, Ronan harbors a deep-seated hatred of the fae. Yet, an unexpected spark ignites between him and Lillith, challenging everything he thought he knew. When Lillith uncovers a rebellion that threatens to unleash chaos upon both the fae realm and the mortal world, she realizes that Ronan might be the ally she desperately needs. Together, they form an uneasy alliance to protect the sisters and unravel a conspiracy that runs deeper than either of them imagined.

Torn between her loyalty to the High Council and her growing feelings for Ronan, Lillith must choose where her true allegiance lies. Can she defy centuries of duty to follow her heart? And can Ronan overcome his prejudices to embrace a love that could heal his wounds?

••••••

REVIEW: MAGIC UNMASKED is the fifth instalment in Delta James’s contemporary adult THE GRIMM FILES paranormal, fantasy romance series. This is fae enforcer Lilith Silverwing, and sabre tooth tiger shifter Ronan Rousseau’s story line. MAGIC UNMASKED can be read as a stand alone but for back story and cohesion I recommend reading the series in order as there is an ongoing premise throughout.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspective (Ronan and Lilith) MAGIC UNMASKED continues to focus on Fae High Council’s determination to take down the powerful Duvall sisters-four fae warriors whose magic and power are considered dangerous and in demand. Hired to bring in the Duvall sisters, fae enforcer Lilith Silverwing finds herself with an unwanted partner, sabre tooth tiger shifter Ronan Rousseau, who is also, taking aim at the magical fae but all is not as is appears to be, and our couple will quickly discover there is corruption within the Council, and the attacks against the Duvalls may be a bi-product of power and control.

The relationship between Ronan and Lilith begin when both are targeting the Duvall sisters. Ronan will soon realize Lilith is his fated mate but Lilith refuses to accept the shifter as her happily ever after. The $ex scenes are limited but provocative.

The secondary and supporting characters include the Duvall sisters-Geneva, Savannah, Phoenix, Catalina, their aunt Maeve, as well as Fae leader Zephyr Windchaser, High Councilor Oberon Whisperwind and Morrigan.

MAGIC UNMASKED is a quick read; a story of betrayal and vengeance, power and control, magic and mates, acceptance and love. The fast paced story is enchanting and entertaining; the romance is seductive and fated; the characters are magical and desperate.

Reading Order and Previous reviews
Magic Unleashed
Magic Unbound
Magic Unrestrained
Magic Unlimited

Copy supplied for review

__________

MAGIC UNDAUNTED
(The Grimm Files 6)
by Delta James
Genre: adult ,contemporary, erotic, paranormal, fantasy romance

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 6, 2024

She’s the realm’s most wanted rebel. He’s her ex and the High Court’s most formidable enforcer. He’s decided he wants her back.

In the mystical outskirts of New Orleans, where the Whispering Woods guard ancient secrets, Elyria leads a daring rebellion against the tyrannical High Court of the fae. Once a princess of this opulent realm, she now fights to protect the lesser fae from a sinister threat—mysterious disappearances that hint at dark magic and treachery within the Court itself.

Stryker patrols the borders of Luminara with growing unease. Disturbed by traces of forbidden magic and haunted by memories of Elyria—the fiery rebel who once held his heart—he begins to question the very orders he’s sworn to uphold.

When their paths cross once more, Elyria and Stryker uncover a rogue human mage’s devastating plan to wield a weapon capable of unraveling the fae realm’s very fabric. Forced to join forces, their simmering attraction reignites, blurring the lines between past and present.

As battles rage and alliances crumble, Elyria must confront her past and make an impossible choice: trust the man who could betray her or risk losing everything to save a world that has forsaken her.

•••••••

REVIEW: MAGIC UNDAUNTED is the sixth instalment in Delta James’s contemporary adult THE GRIMM FILES paranormal, fantasy romance series. This is former fae warrior of Celestia Elyria Knightshade, and griffon shifter/ warrior for the Fae Stryker Landry’s story line. MAGIC UNDAUNTED can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order for cohesion and backstory.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Elyria and Stryker) MAGIC UNDAUNTED follows the search for the truth. Approximately one year earlier, Fae Warrior Elyria Knightshade was banished from the Fae realm of Celestia but she has never stopped hunting those determined to hurt the Fae but when she comes face to face with the man she once loved, Elyria is determined to prove she is not the betrayer the Fae Council has led them to believe. Enter griffon shifter and warrior Stryker Landry. Stryker has been assigned to search for the source of the powerful black magic, magic that is using and abusing the Fae but working alongside the woman he loves forces Stryker to prove he can be trusted in the face of perceived betrayal to our story line heroine. As Stryker and Elyria begin their search to uncover the source of the magic, old feelings pull our couple together in the face of darkness and death.

The world building continues to focus on black magic, and a possible betrayal from within the Fae Council. Someone is wreaking havoc, taking aim at the Fae on Celestia, all the while aiming for a complete control.

The relationship between Elyria and Stryker is one of second chances but Elyria struggles in the face of her banishment and the lack of support from the man she once loved. Stryker has faithfully stood by the Fae Council but within days of reconnecting with Elyria, the blinds are slowly lifted revealing a darkness no one suspected. The $ex scenes are intimate and impassioned without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to several members of Elyria’s rebel alliance including her second in command Finnian, as well as the return of Lord Oberon; and Savannah, Phoenix, Geneva and Catalina Duvall, banished members of the Fae.

MAGIC UNDAUNTED is another story of betrayal and vengeance, power and control, magic and mayhem, forgiveness and love. The fast paced premise is dramatic; the rekindling romance is impassioned; the characters are dynamic and desperate.

Copy supplied for review

Reviews by Sandy

Bride of the Shadow King by Sylvia Mercedes – a Review

Posted on November 13, 2024 by Barb

Bride of the Shadow King by Sylvia Mercedes – a Review

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Description:
A shunned princess. A reluctant king.
A marriage that could save both their kingdoms . . . but destroy their hearts.

Though she is the oldest daughter, Princess Faraine lives in the background, shunned from court and kept out of sight. Her chronic illness makes her a liability to the crown, and she has learned to give place to her beautiful, favored younger sister in all things.

When the handsome and enigmatic Shadow King comes seeking a bride, Faraine is not surprised that her sister is his choice.

Though not eager to take a human bride, King Vor is willing to do what is necessary for the sake of his people. When he meets the lively Princess Ilsevel, he quickly agrees to a marriage arrangement.

So why can’t he get the haunting eyes of her older sister out of his head?

When disaster strikes and the marriage alliance is compromised, Faraine suddenly finds herself forced to take her sister’s place . . . regardless of her new husband’s desires. Can she find a place at Vor’s side as his queen? Or is his heart forever closed to the woman who deceived him so cruelly?

Passionate and alluring, Bride of the Shadow King is an arranged marriage tale with dual point-of-view (his and hers). It’s perfect for fantasy fans looking for a touch of spice to go with the sweet in their next swoony, slow-burn romance.

Review:

Bride of the Shadow King by Sylvia Mercedes is the first book in her new Bride of the Shadow King series. We meet Princess Faraine, who is the oldest daughter Of King Larongar of Gavaria; as she has been banished to a convent, since her father was not able to arrange a marriage by the groom. Now her younger sister, Ilsevel is refusing to marry King Vor of Mythanar, and Faraine is called home from the convent to calm her sister and convince her to wed the man her father wants her to marry.

King Vor agrees to wed princess Ilsevel, because he needs human magic to save his kingdom; as King Larongar is determined to get Vor to help protect their own kingdom. Faraine is on her way home, and she and her brother are attacked; King Vor with his team comes to their rescue. In a short period, as they head to Gavaria, with them having an instant connection, as their attraction is strong. King Vor is eager to take a human bride, as he is willing to do what is needed to help his people. When he meets the lively and talented, Princess Ilsevel, he quickly agrees to a marriage arrangement; with the blessing of King Larongar.

When disaster strikes, and Ilsevel and her younger sister, are both killed in an attack by Gavaria’s enemy. King Larongar is determined to keep the marriage alliance, with Faraine now being forced to take her sister’s place; as a mage helps to change Faraine face to look like her sister. When she travels with Lyria to become King Vor’s new wife, as his Queen; she continues to wear a veil to keep her facial change. The wedding night approaches, with Vor and Faraine succumbing to their sexual feelings. But Vor will discover the truth about Faraine, and all hell will break loose.

Bride of the Shadow King was a very good romantasy, with a slow burn and forbidden romance; which had magic, deception, betrayal, sacrifice and death. The finale was a wild intense ending, leaving us with so many more questions. Bride of the Shadow King was very well written by Sylvia Mercedes. Though there was some bad scenes as we got closer to the end, I suggest you read this book.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

Wild Bliss (Nights in Bliss Colorado 14)by Lexi Blake-review tour

Posted on November 12, 2024 by Sandy

Wild Bliss (Nights in Bliss Colorado 14)by Lexi Blake-review tour

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Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3S7yWzS

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 12, 2024

Sabrina Leal moved to Bliss looking for a new start. She’s in charge of building a school system from scratch and is excited about the challenge. What she didn’t count on was the surliest bar owner she’s ever met. Sawyer Hathaway gets under her skin in the most annoying way. He’s arrogant and sometimes rude, and she can’t stop thinking about him. It’s easier to ignore him when it’s only Sawyer. But when she meets his best friend, Wyatt, he’s light to Sawyer’s darkness, and the combination calls to Sabrina in a way she might not be able to deny.

Sawyer likes things the way they are. Alone. No serious connections. Just him simmering in his own unresolved trauma. Like a real man should. But the new schoolteacher is making it hard. And the reappearance of Wyatt in his life isn’t helping. Years before, Sawyer had joined an outlaw MC when his brother had gotten in trouble. Wyatt had been a true friend, and when he needs a short-term place to stay, Sawyer can’t turn him out. Short term turns way longer, and the baddest man in Bliss has to admit it’s not terrible to have a friend. But there’s no way he’s getting involved with the sweetest thing he’s ever met.

Wyatt wants Sabrina the minute he sees her. He’s spent his whole life in the equivalent of a criminal, violent cult, and he wants some softness. He wants the white picket fence dream of Bliss. His best friend. Their wife. Throw in a super-cute rescue dog and a couple of kids and Wyatt would be in heaven. When his scheming gets all of them snowed in together, he knows he’s got his shot at making this work.

But the MC isn’t done with Wyatt or Sawyer, and Sabrina is exactly the bargaining chip they need…

••••

REVIEW:WILD BLISS is the fourteenth instalment in Lexi Blake’s contemporary adult NIGHTS IN BLISS, COLORADO erotic, revers harem romance series. This is elementary school teacher Sabrina Leal, bar owner Sawyer Hathaway, and bartender Wyatt Kemp’s story line. WILD BLISS 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 a MFM menage sexual relationship , there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from several omniscient third person perspectives WILD BLISS follows the building romance and relationship between elementary school teacher Sabrina Leal, bar owner Sawyer Hathaway, and bartender Wyatt Kemp. Approximately one year earlier, Sabrina Leal watched as Sawyer Hathaway all but ran from our story line heroine. Fast forward to present day Sabrina is the new elementary school teacher for the children of Bliss Colorado, but an electrical issue with her cabin finds Sabrina facing down Sawyer Hathaway and his roommate Wyatt Kemp. Wyatt knows immediately he wants Sabrina as his own but is willing to share with Sawyer Hathaway but Sawyer struggles with his ‘criminal past’, and Wyatt’s past with the Colorado Horde MC threatens the safety of everyone concerned and both men are willing to walk away to protect the woman he loves.

The world building focuses on several paths including Wyatt’s struggles to escape his past, a past that refuses to let go. From the outset, Sawyer believes himself unworthy and a fear of abandonment continue to threaten his sent of self-worth, and Sabrina has fallen to two men who believe she is unable to protect herself.

The relationship between Sabrina and Sawyer begins tempestuously due to Sawyer’s belief he is unworthy of love. As Sabrina and Wyatt’s relationship becomes something more, Sawyer reconsiders his future with the woman he loves. the $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of familiar, entertaining and sassy characters most of whom we have met in the previous story lines.

WILD BLISS is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, dysfunctional family values, acceptance and love. The premise is captivating, dramatic and gritty; the romance is provocative and impassioned; the characters are determined, broken and charismatic.

Previous Reviews

Pure Bliss
Up All Night in Bliss 6.5
Chasing Bliss
Once Upon a Time in Bliss
Back in Bliss
Sirens in Bliss
Happily Ever After in Bliss
Far From Bliss
Unexpected Bliss

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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

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Monthly Archives: November 2024

Rumor Has It (Longwood U 1) by Crea Reitan-review tour

💜Rumor Has It (Longwood U 1) by Crea Reitan-review tour💜

If You Need Me (Toronto Terror 3) by Helena Hunting-review

If You Need Me (Toronto Terror 3) by Helena Hunting-review

The Shadows Rule All by Abigail Owen – a Review

The Shadows Rule All by Abigail Owen – a Review

The Truths That Deceive by Kristen Luciani-review tour

The Truths That Deceive (Obsidian Knights Secret Society #4) by Kristen Luciani-review tour

My Favorite Holidate by Lauren Blakely-review tour

My Favorite Holidate by Lauren Blakely-review tour

Magic Unmasked/ Magic Undaunted (The Grimm Files) by Delta James

MAGIC UNMASKED/ MAGIC UNDAUNTED (The Grimm Files 5 & 6) by Delta James

Bride of the Shadow King by Sylvia Mercedes – a Review

Bride of the Shadow King by Sylvia Mercedes – a Review

Wild Bliss (Nights in Bliss Colorado 14)by Lexi Blake-review tour

Wild Bliss (Nights in Bliss Colorado 14)by Lexi Blake-review tour

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