Author Archives: Sandy

Scandal (Stoneslayer 1) by Candace Lynn Talmadge-review

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Scandal (Stoneslayer 1) by Candace Lynn Talmadge-review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 12, 2024

His power seeks to destroy it all. Can she rise up to stop him?

The Stoneslayer paranormal fiction series charts a lost world of political scandals, explosive family secrets, and the reincarnation of a line of extraordinary women who challenge the cataclysmic rampage of an ancient, demonic foe.

Book One Scandal

Lt. Helen Andros is a mixed-race outcast in Azgard. Saved from death when her true parentage comes to light, she now faces the outrage of the overclass, the lethal hostility of the mighty Temple of Kronos—and a powerful, high-ranked father she neither knows nor trusts.

Steering a volatile personal journey with her stranger parent, Helen is stalked. Will a hidden menace—the deadly Stoneslayer—plunder the mysterious green gem she inherited from her mother? Will political necessity bind her in marriage to a man she does not love and who cannot love her back?

•••••

REVIEW:Can I first say I loved the glossary (very helpful) but I personally would have liked it at the front of the book (I was worried I would read the last page and spoil the book!) secondly the family trees were a nice touch.

The glossary was a great help, as there were A LOT of characters. I made notes as I went along, but had to constantly look at the glossary for confirmation.

This is the first book by this author that I’ve read, and to be honest, if this is the first in the series, I want to know more….

The book had all the makings of a great read. Action/adventure/mystery/suspense and a paranormal angle.

But sadly it fell a little short….
Information is great, but maybe not at the end, as it felt like an avalanche burying the story!

And maybe the language (or use of Renaissance/modern/old world jumbled together) was a little off putting, once I got the hang of it, I could understand a bit better.

But I loved Helen, she was just so strong. Her resilience was tested time after time. A father who I couldn’t like nor trust. A person who has known hate and prejudice, Helen just took it all in her stride. She’s also tied to a man that is for purely political reasons (very archaic) can she really trust him? Only time will tell. Her wit and smart mouth has me smiling, her comebacks made me chuckle.

340 pages, and I was there for most of them. How Helen uses her (magical abilities?) family gem to heal people. How she had to always stay one step ahead of the demon.

The idea of reincarnation was a different angle and I really liked that.

But a word of warning ‼️ there is mention of assault and r@pe!! Maybe that needs to be addressed, as it was a little shocking (if I know it’s coming I don’t have an issue, I can prepare myself!)

I liked it, if it could just be re-jiggled a little then I think it would have the potential to be a really interesting series.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B 🦋

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When He Protects (Protector & Defender 1) by Cynthia Eden-review

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When He Protects (Protector & Defender 1) by Cynthia Eden-review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 29, 2024

He knew she was trouble from the moment they met.

Esme Laurent is a con artist. An accomplished liar. A world-class thief. And probably the most beautiful and intriguing woman that Tyler Barrett has ever met. Sure, he has to arrest her at their first meeting, and she absolutely hates him, but…well, he has a job to do. And Tyler always gets the job done.

Turns out, she is the new job.

The people in charge want to use Esme to bring down a very dangerous criminal operation. And in order to do that, Esme has to stay in the land of the living. She needs protection, she needs a new identity, and she needs to disappear, immediately. Because Esme has more than a bit of power, she makes her own deal…her protection needs to come in the ever-so-gorgeous, ever-so-dangerous, and ever-so-law-abiding form of U.S. Marshal Tyler Barrett.

They’ll disappear into Small Town, USA. And they’ll pretend to be newlyweds who just can’t keep their hands off each other.

No, absolutely, this cannot be happening. But no matter how much Tyler protests, the new job is, in fact, happening. He’s being sent to Asylum, Alabama, with the delectable Esme. He’s supposed to be her husband—a role that will give him twenty-four, seven access in order to protect her. He needs that access in order to make sure that Esme doesn’t run from the authorities and that she stays alive. But what Tyler doesn’t count on is the consuming desire he feels for a woman who should be off-limits.

She’ll test every limit that he has…

Esme doesn’t expect her attraction to the rule-following Tyler. He’s big, he’s buttoned-down, and he’s absolutely…delicious. She also suspects that he may be carefully controlling a wild side—one that she would love to see erupt. Oh, if only.

When danger comes calling, Tyler is more than ready to handle any threat. Who knew that falling for the good guy could be so tempting? And so very…heart-breaking. Because there was no way a guy like Tyler would want to stay around once they stop pretending. Everyone knows the bad girl never gets to keep the good guy, especially when she’s still working a very long con.

•••••

REVIEW: WHEN HE PROTECTS is the first instalment in Cynthia Eden’s contemporary adult PROTECTOR AND DEFENDER erotic, romantic suspense series. This is former Marine turned US Marshall Tyler Barrett, and twenty-seven year old, professional thief Esme Laurent’s story line.

Told from several omniscient third person perspectives including Esme and Tyler WHEN HE PROTECTS follows the building relationship between our story line couple. Tyler Barrett was working undercover at a high end party, a party where a suspected thief may have been targeting but Tyler will come face to face with an unlikely mark, a beautiful woman whose secrets run deadly and deep. Enter Esme Laurent. Esme is a professional thief but all is not as it appears to be. Esme has secrets that may be heart breaking for Tyler, secrets she does not necessarily want to reveal. A bounty on her head, Esme and Tyler embark on a fake marriage, going into hiding but Esme is willing to run to protect the man with whom she is falling in love.

The world building follows the building romance and relationship between our story line couple. In hiding, our couple find themselves the target of a powerful man but betrayal comes from within, from many sides, and from where they least expect it. No longer able to trust the people in charge, Esme and Tyler must try to make it on their own.

The relationship between Esme and Tyler begins as an assignment when Tyler is tasked to arresting our story line heroine but when Esme becomes the target, Tyler finds himself guardian and protector on orders from the top. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to several members of local and federal law enforcement and government agencies including Esme’s father Etienne Laurent; Sheriff Clay Banks; FBI Agent Grayson Stone; former Marine Kane Harte, and Agent Thaddeus Caldwell. The requisite evil has many faces.

WHEN HE PROTECTS is a story of secrets and lies, power and control, betrayal and vengeance, family and relationships, forgiveness and love. The character driven, fasts paced premise is intriguing and captivating but the guilty party(s) was easily to deduce. The characters are charismatic and cheeky; the romance is seductive and fated. Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Copy supplied for review

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Unlocked (E-labs Trilogy 1) by Peter L Kraft-review

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Unlocked (E-labs Trilogy 1) by Peter L Kraft-review

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 5, 2024

A discovery that shatters the boundaries of human potential. A race against time to control it.

In the hidden depths of Switzerland’s E-Labs, Dr. Natalia Accorsi and her team have made a breakthrough that could redefine humanity—a series of mysterious “combinations” that unlock extraordinary abilities lying dormant in the human body. Telekinesis. Telepathy. Accelerated healing. Abilities that defy imagination.

But with unimaginable power comes unimaginable danger.

As word of their discovery spreads, sinister forces emerge from the shadows, determined to seize the unlocking technology and tilt the global balance of power. Natalia is thrust into a deadly game of espionage, greed, and ambition, where the price of failure is global chaos.

Caught in a storm of conspiracy and manipulation, Natalia and her team must navigate the dangerous world of unlocked potential, all while grappling with the ethical boundaries of their work. With each new combination revealed, the stakes rise higher, and the line between savior and destroyer grows dangerously thin.

In a world on the brink of destruction, unlocking humanity’s potential may be the only way to save it—or doom it forever.

•••••

REVIEW:UNLOCKED is the first instalment in Peter L. Kraft’s adult E-LABS sci-fi, dystopian trilogy focusing on the hidden powers of the human mind.

Told from third person perspective UNLOCKED focuses on the ‘unlocking’ of the mind’s hidden powers. Hired by researcher Dr. Gustaf Remaley, Dr. Natalia Accorsi heads an all star team of scientists as they struggle to uncover the potential of the human brain, and in its’ wake set into motion the destructive nature of mankind. As Natalia and her team continue to build the codes that will change humanity, the inconceivable becomes a reality when betrayal becomes the catalyst in the war for the ultimate control.

UNLOCKED is a story written as a contemplation of what if; a reflection and introspection of the present; a written narrative that mirrors some of today’s questionable innovations including the pros and cons of AI; and the likelihood for war. The team at Evereldis Labs are attempting to rewrite what it means to be human but in doing so the psychokinesis aka PK is wielded as a weapon for those willing to pay the price.

UNLOCKED is a philosophical, psychological and mythological look at the human potential. A techno-thriller of manipulation and betrayal, power and control. Peter L. Kraft’s style of writing is a technical narrative yet descriptive portrayal combining science fact, science fiction and speculation. The premise is detailed, complex and thought provoking. The cast of characters are desperate, determined, destructive and questionable. UNLOCKED ends on a big of a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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A Yuletide Toss of the Dice by Collette Cameron-review

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A Yuletide Toss of the Dice (Ladies of Opportunity 1) by Collette Cameron-review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 5, 2024

They never realized just how thin the line between hate and love could be…
until they tumbled over it.

Aubriella Penford is used to being an outsider in Regency London’s High Society. Her love for science and lack of social graces set her apart from the other ladies of the ton, making her the odd one out at every glittering ball. So when her lifelong rival—and her brother’s best friend—unexpectedly offers to help her through a Christmas house party, she’s skeptical. Can she really trust the man who’s vexed her since childhood? Even more surprising is that she accepts, setting the stage for an unforgettable holiday romance.

Jackson Matherfield, a self-made gentleman, has always preferred hard work to the frivolities of society. Having clawed his way out of poverty to support his family, he’s not one for festive gatherings or small talk. He certainly never expected to be intrigued by Aubrie’s sharp wit and keen intellect at a holiday party. Yet here he is, captivated by the very woman he’s always sparred with.

A scandalous wager, an unexpected snowstorm, and a daring rescue reveal a deeper connection than they ever imagined. As the season of joy unfolds, will their newfound bond lead to a Christmas happily ever after, or heartbreak? Escape into this heartwarming enemies-to-lovers Regency romance filled with festive cheer, sizzling chemistry, and a touch of holiday magic.

••••

REVIEW:New series by one of my favourite historical romance authors.

This one set in the regency romance genre. And you can’t be Collette for a good drama. Enemies to lovers, this pair have known each other for years. Brother’s friend, who sees her as nothing more than a nuisance.

Collette writes sweet/clean/slow burn romance. And after some of the dark romances I’ve read recently, this is my palate cleanser. A great plot with lots of drama And it’s a Christmas story, so getting into the spirit (slowly 😉)

Aubriella “Aubrie” isn’t your usual debutante. She’s happier studying science than attending balls and idle chitchat. It makes her awkward and uncomfortable in these social situations.

Jackson “Jack” didn’t come from a rich family. He’s worked hard to be where he is today. Looking after his family has been his priority, he has no time for dances and fending off matriarchs wanting their daughters married off! But that’s not to say he hasn’t had his share of dalliances.

Aubrie and Jackson have that spark that lights up the page. They might antagonise one another, but I got that vibe as soon as they come together.

So how does the relationship develop? Well… A house party starts out as a friend helping out, but watching the lovely young lady has Jack seeing Aubrie in a different light. So setting his sights on capturing this fascinating creature, Jack uses all of his charm and wit. But Aubrie isn’t going to make this easy. She doesn’t trust him as far as she can throw him! A cad surely doesn’t change overnight?!

There were several moments that caught me off guard. Loved the ladies circle. We also meet the couple that will be in the next book. The banter had me laughing m, and the gossiping ladies circle made me want to join them for tea and chat.

If you like your romance with mystery/suspense/and soulful kisses, then this one just might fit the bill.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B🦋

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Viper / Axle (War Brothers MC) by Bianca Lee Ward-reviews

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VIPER / AXLE (War Brothers MC 4 & 1) by Bianca Lee Ward -review

VIPER
War Brothers MC 4
by Bianca Lee Ward
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, MC, romance

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 19, 2024

I’ve got one month to convince her to be my wife . . .

Until I laid eyes on Sophie, I never planned on marriage. All that changed after our hot night together in Vegas. Now she regrets our impulsive Vegas wedding and is demanding a divorce. But I’m not signing the papers. Hell no! I’ll give up every single one of my womanizing ways for a woman like her.

Sophie thinks I’m only infatuated with her looks, except I see how everyone underestimates her. I’m not intimidated by her wealth, her modeling career, and the trail of broken hearts she leaves behind her. What we have is different.

I’ve lived my whole life unable to feel anything thanks to my rough childhood, but for Sophie, I’ll risk everything. Her rich father and the jealous women in my club aren’t going to stand in my way. If she wants a divorce, she’ll have to spend one month with me at the War Brothers clubhouse. Sleeping in my bed.

Then we’ll see if she still refuses to say I do . . .

••••••

REVIEW: VIPER is the fourth instalment in Bianca Lee Ward’s contemporary, adult WAR BROTHERS MC erotic, MC romance series whose members are former military personnel. This is Brayden ‘Viper’ Young, and businesswoman Sophie Crown. VIPER can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Sophie and Viper) VIPER follows in the wake of the unplanned Vegas wedding between our story line couple. Sophie Crown is a savvy business woman but never expected to find herself married to a member of the War Brothers MC. A drunken one-night stand results in a drunk Vegas wedding, a one-month promise, and a billionaire father who will do anything to protect his only daughter. What ensues is the building relationship between Sophie and Viper, and the potential fall-out as Sophie is targeted, and her father is threatening to destroy the War Brothers MC.

The relationship between Viper and Sophie begins as a one-night stand that ends in marriage and a runaway bride. Viper is desperate to give his marriage a chance but Sophie’s father is determined to tear them apart. As Viper and Sophie begin a one-month experiment together, someone else works behind the scenes to destroy them both. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are reintroduced to most of the members of the War Brothers MC including president Reaper and Ava, Bomber and Zara, and Axle as well as Sophie’s brothers Lawson, Harrison and Alec, and their father.

VIPER is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, jealousy and obsession, family and relationships, acceptance and love. The premise is captivating and fascinating; the romance is passionate; the characters are desperate, determined and dynamic.

Click HERE  for Sandy’s review of REAPER

Copy supplied for review

_______

AXLE
(War Brothers MC 1)
by Bianca Lee Ward
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, MC, romance

ebook only 99¢ Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 29, 2024

She’s a wager, a game…
I’ll pretend she’s mine, such a pretty little lie.

I’m exactly the type of guy Elena should stay away from. Sweet, innocent women like her don’t look for relationships in motorcycle clubs. Especially one as classy and out of my league as Elena.

I can’t resist swiping right on her dating profile for fun. I never imagined we’d be a match. I know I’d only be a quick thrill for her, but I’m getting tired of the women at the clubhouse anyway.

Then my club brother Viper goes and ups the stakes: he bets me one thousand dollars that I won’t be able to have a relationship with Elena. With my wicked smile and flirty charm, she won’t be able to resist me. And like my other hookups, I can’t let it get personal.

Until I let my guard down and she becomes my ride or die.
Which means I’ve got to make sure as hell that Elena never finds out about our bet

•••••

REVIEW:AXLE is the first instalment in Bianca Lee Ward’s contemporary, adult WAR BROTHERS MC erotic, MC romance series. This is Jake ‘Axle’ Evans, and Elena’s story line.

NOTE:Although Axle is the first book in the series, all of the books (so far) have been released out of order, and therefore some of the situations and characters are already known.

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

Told from dual first person perspectives (Elena and Axle) AXLE follows the building relationship between our story line couple. Elena is new in Crown Village, having ‘escaped’ her judgemental family back home but having met her new roommates, Elena begins to question her decision including working at the local seafood restaurant, and the boss who is questionable at best. When a fellow employee sets Elena up on a dating app, our heroine never expected to come face to face with a member of the War Brothers MC, the man with whom Elena will fall in love but all is not as it appears to be, and Elena will discover she is a pawn in a bet between members of the War Brothers MC.

The world building focuses on the building romance and relationship between our story line couple, as well as Elena’s unsettling boss, the problematic women of the War Brothers MC; our heroine’s battle to break free from the past, and Elena’s struggle with Axle’s life as a member of the MC.

The relationship between Elena and Axle begins as a dating app match, a match in which Axle is manipulating their ‘affair’. Elena is naïve to the MC lifestyle, and in this, she is gullible to the comments and rhetoric, as well as the manipulation of her roommates and fellow employees. As Axle continues his ‘seduction’ of our story line heroine, Elena begins to fall for a man who may not be as honest as she thought. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top,sexually graphic language and text.

The secondary and supporting characters include Elena’s numerous roommates and their ever present friends; her questionable boss Cameron, and co-worker Mel. We are (re) introduced to several members of the War Brothers MC including Reaper (Ava), Viper, Demon, Bomber, and Twitch.

AXLE is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and heart break, family and relationships, forgiveness and love. The fast paced premise is engaging and edgy ; the characters are animated and sensitive; the romance is flawed and spirited.

Own a copy

Reviewed by Sandy

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VIRGIL’S DEMONS (RBMC Mother Chapter Prequel #8) by Crimson Syn

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VIRGIL’S DEMONS (RBMC Mother Chapter Prequel #8) by Crimson Syn-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 31, 2024

God forgives those who seek forgiveness.

But what about those who cannot ask for it?
Those who carry a secret, silenced and unaware of what they harbor within.
When God is absent, the demons take control.
That’s where I come in – to give these souls a voice, a fighting chance.
A warrior of God, if you will.

My name is Virgil Desdemone, and I, am an Exorcist.
This calling has come at a price: my life.
Demons have hunted me for most of my existence, and recently, I’ve gone into hiding.
I sought refuge in the confines of an abandoned church.

What I least expected was to be found, and least of all that I’d find solace within an MC,One that walks on the edge of hell.
I hoped the chaos and blurred lines would hide my soul,
making me neither good nor bad, just existing.

But Death surrounds me.
And eventually, I will meet my maker,
Just not at the hands of a demon.
One relentless demon comes to mind.
It is determined to claim my soul and torture the souls of the ones I care about.
Death offers to help.

There’s only one tiny problem…
Death seems to have fallen in love with me, and it’s getting in the way of saving the one woman who may just know how to save me.

***Virgil’s Demons is Book #8 in the RBMC Mother Chapter’s prequels and should be read after Raven’s Spectre.***

••••••

REVIEW: VIRGIL’S DEMONS is the eight instalment in Crimson Syn’s adult RBMC: MOTHER CHAPTER PREQUEL dark, erotic, MC romance series focusing on the founding members of the RBMC. This is MC Chaplain and exorcist, Virgil Desdemone, and tattoo artist / empath Barythaya’s paranormal story line. VIRGIL’S DEMONS 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, there WILL BE triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from several first person perspectives (Virgil, Barythaya, Spectre, Death, Hellsing) set approximately 30 years in the past, VIRGIL’S DEMONS follows Virgil Desdemone as he struggles with the demons that are controlling his life. His life as an exorcist was questionable at best, having lost too many lives in the process but finding a home with the RBMC, Virgil would discover the true meaning of fear when a young tattoo artist called to his heart but all is not well in Virgil’s life, and the demons and Death are targeting the woman he loves.

VIRGIL’S DEMONS is an edgy, dark and unconventional tale of reflection and introspection, power and control, demons and death, acceptance and love. The premise is twisted, haunting and gritty, brutal and raw; the characters are desperate, broken and tragic.

Heed the trigger warnings for sensitive readers.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

Inked in Vengeance
Scarred by Pain
Afflicted with Desire
Wrecked From Malice
Belle Macabre
The Winter Biker
Raven’s Spectre

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

My name is Crimson Syn, not really, but what fun is it to use my real name. Instead I’ll use my inner goddess’ name, it’s much more fun that way. I grew up in New York City where I had a wonderful education, loving parents and awesome friends. What more could a girl ask for?

I started writing at the age of sixteen. The first romance I read was Stephanie Laurens’ Devil’s Bride. Since then I have been influenced by dozens of flourishing romance authors and even more dashing and daring rogues. I must say it, but Fifty Shades was not my first erotic romance, nor did it influence me to start writing them. If you’ve never read Mary Balogh, Elizabeth Hoyt, Lisa Kleypas, Bertrice Small or A.N. Roquelaure’s Sleeping Beauty trilogy, then you’re missing out. Those were my sweet introductions to erotic romance, and boy were they hot.

So here I am, after reading so many wonderful stories, I have too many sinful tales of my own not to share. I like my alphas rough and possessive, and I have no shame in saying it or writing it. I had delightfully wicked teachers growing up, their books took me to new worlds and brought me new loves. So, I want to do the same for you. I want to indulge my readers in those steamy reads that will send them into the arms of dangerous alphas and deliciously sexy rogues, without leaving the confines of their nice warm bed. If I am able to entice your inner goddesses, then I have done my job and I am satisfied.

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SUNRISE MALICE (Dark Mafia Romance 3) by BB Hamel-review

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SUNRISE MALICE (Dark Mafia Romance 3) by BB Hamel

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 November 4, 2024

I made a list of all the steamy stuff I was too afraid to try.

It was a meaningless joke—

Right up until my arranged husband found it.

Now it’s his mission to check off Every. Single. Box….

Julien Moreau was never supposed to read my fantasy bucket list.

He needs a wife, and I need a ticket away from my abusive family.

This arrangement is nothing more than a business deal with rings.

I don’t care if he’s built like a peak athlete with a dangerous and possessive vibe.

It doesn’t matter if he’s undeniably sexy. The man’s a mafia kingpin, and all he knows how to do is destroy.

Now I’m thrown into the middle of a vicious war, and Julien promises to keep me safe…

Only if I’m willing to let him expand all of my horizons.

••••••

REVIEW: SUNRISE MALICE is the third instalment in BB Hamel’s contemporary, adult DARK MAFIA ROMANCE set in the author’s Bianco Family world. This is French mobster Julien Moreau, and Brianne Campbell’s story line. SUNRISE MALICE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order for backstory story and cohesion.

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

Told from dual first person perspectives (Julien and Brianne) and one chapter from Pascal, SUNRISE MALICE focuses on the arranged marriage between our story line couple. As the head of the French mob in Chicago, Julien Moreau needs an in with the Hayes Group, headed by Ronan Hayes, and Ronan is offering Brianne Campbell, a young woman whose family is connected to Ronan’s organization but Julien is hoping for someone closer to the top, and reluctantly accepts Brianne’s hand in marriage, a marriage predicated upon business and nothing more. The arrival of Julien’s ‘grandfather’ Pascal Moreau threatens not only Julien’s hard fought position within the criminal underworld of Chicago but his growing relationship with our story line heroine.

The world building follows several pathways including Julien and Brianne’s struggling relationship; a fight for control of power; a war Julien and the Russian Mafia; and the numerous attempts on the lives of our story line couple.

The relationship between Julien and Brianne is an arranged marriage, a marriage Julien needs to stake a claim with the Hayes Group but from the outset Julien struggles to accept Brianne as his future bride, forcing Brianne to reconsider her decision going forward. The $ex scenes are passionate and provocative.

We are introduced to Julien’s ‘grandfather’ and the head of the Moreau Crime family Pascal Moreau; Brianne’s best friend and Ronan’s cousin Kim Hayes; Julien’s second in command Jean; as well as the return of Ronan and Valentina.

SUNRISE MALICE is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, dysfunctional family dynamics, acceptance and love.The character driven premise is dark and dramatic; the romance is fated and seductive; the characters are charismatic and determined.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Twilight Mask
Midnight Beast

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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MY DARLING JANE (The Darlings 2) by Ilsa Madden-Mills-review

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MY DARLING JANE (The Darlings 2) by Ilsa Madden-Mills

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

Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3ZC56YG

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 5, 2024

On an ordinary day, Jane Darling wouldn’t be caught dead in a sports bar wearing a toga with angel wings. But she’s desperate to launch her matchmaking business to secure her young daughter’s future. Her to attract new clients at any cost.

Her Cupid outfit catches the eye of New York’s beloved star quarterback, Jasper Jannich. She and Jasper have always clashed, but when a pushy admirer goes too far, he steps in as an unexpected knight in shining armor.

He offers a tantalizing to be Cupid’s Arrow’s premier client. Reluctantly, Jane agrees, aware of the business potential despite her reservations about Jasper and his playboy reputation.

As she sets him up on date after date, it grows clear that Jane’s the only woman he wants.

She is his goal, his endgame.

She’s not not interested…but her heart has been burned before. To get anywhere, they’ll need courage and faith, not just sizzling chemistry.

He’s ready to make the pass. Is his darling ready to catch iT?

•••

REVIEW: MY DARLING JANE is the second instalment in Ilsa Madden-Mills’ contemporary, adult THE DARLINGS erotic, romance series. This is thirty-one year old, quarterback Jasper Jannich, and twenty-five year old, former model turned single mother/ matchmaker . book store owner Jane Darling’s story line. MY DARLING JANE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary,

Told from dual first person perspectives (Jane and Jasper) MY DARLING JANE follows the frenemies to lovers relationship between our story line couple.Jane Darling is too busy to date but runs a matchmaking service for those willing to pay. A single mother, co-owner of a book store, and a woman who finds herself attracted to the man she shouldn’t want but when Jasper Jannich keeps pushing, she offers to set him up on a series of dates, dates that don’t go very well. Jealous of the women in Jasper’s life, Jane is willing to consider giving Jasper a chance, a chance that is about to blow up in both of their faces.

The world building follows the tempestuous relationship between our story line couple. Jane struggles with her attraction to a man she believes could break her heart but having experienced the fall-out of rejection and betrayal, Jane battles between head and heart in the face of repeating the past. Jasper Jannich knows something about rejection having faced it at a very young age but when the past reappears for both Jane and Jasper, they struggle to see through the veil of possible deceit and betrayal.

The relationship between Jasper and Jane is a frenemies to lovers in which Jane struggles to set up Jasper with suitable women, knowing the potential for heart break for herself. Having fallen for Jane, Jasper’s heart isn’t willing to put up with Jane’s matchmaking services but when Jane pushes Jasper out of her life, he suspects there is something more going on. The $ex scenes are provocative and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

The secondary and supporting characters include Graham and Emma (My Darling Bride 1), as well as Jasper’s extended family, and several mismatches found by Jane herself.

MY DARLING JANE is a story of desperation and determination, family and friendships, acceptance and love. The premise is honest yet familiar; the romance is spirited; the characters are sassy, animated and dynamic.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one MY DARLING BRIDE

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and USA Today best-selling author Ilsa Madden-Mills is best known for her angsty new adult romances and romantic comedies.

Fourteen of her Eighteen novels have placed in the Amazon Top 10 Best-seller List: Dirty English #1; Not My Romeo #1; The Revenge Pact #1; Dear Ava, Fake Fiancée, I Dare You, and I Promise You #2; I Hate You #5; Not My Match, I Bet You, Filthy English, and Very Bad Things #6; Boyfriend Bargain #8; The Last Guy, her collaboration with Tia Louise, #4.

A former high school English teacher, she adores all things Pride and Prejudice, and of course, Mr. Darcy is her ultimate hero.

She’s addicted to frothy coffee beverages, cheesy magnets, and any book featuring unicorns and sword-wielding females.

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