Xander / Cooper (Royal Protectors) by Kat Mizera-reviews

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XANDER / COOPER (Royal Protectors 2 & 4) by Kat Mizera-review tour

XANDER
Royal Protectors 2
by Kat Mizera
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romantic suspense

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 12, 2020

He’s vowed to protect her. No matter the cost.
Xander Holt loves working for the Royal Protectors. As one of the official bodyguards to the royal family of Limaj, he lives in a palace, makes more money than he ever has before, and works with the best of the best. The only catch— the person he’s assigned to protect hates his guts. Fine by him, it’s easier that way.

Life hasn’t always been a fairytale for Princess Elen Gustaffson. She finally has her family back after more than a decade in exile, but her new reality isn’t much better. The only thing worse than being on lockdown… having a hot bodyguard assigned to protect her around the clock.

As Xander and Elen butt heads, they find their undeniable attraction impossible to resist— even though it breaks all the rules. When an old enemy resurfaces, threatening Elen, Xander is willing to burn down the whole country to eliminate him, and save the princess. His princess.

The question is, can he do it in time?

•••••••

REVIEW: XANDER is the second instalment in Kat Mizera’s contemporary adult ROYAL PROTECTORS erotic, romantic suspense series. This is US Navy Marine Xander Holt, and thirty-four year old Limaj education minister and teacher Princess Elen Gustaffson’s story line. XANDER can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. There is a slight cross over with the mention of the author’s Las Vegas Sidewinders series.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Elen and Xander) XANDER follows in the building but tempestuous relationship between our story line couple. Xander Holt left the US Marines for a position with the Limaj Royal Protectors.His assignment-protect Princess Elen Gustaffson, a snarky, overworked and energetic woman who is struggling with her place in the family. Not only her fellow parliamentarians taking aim, but the past refuses to take no for an answer, and targets our story line heroine.

The world building follows the building relationship between our story line couple as Elen must come to terms with the misogyny of parliament, and the overwhelming need for security in the wake of the family history and lives. The relationship between Xander and Elen is one of constant conflict and squabbling, a conflict that hides a palpable sexual attraction. The $ex scenes are provocative and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

The secondary and supporting characters include Prince Sandor, and Lennox Briggs, Prince Daniil, the introduction of Natalia Farka; Tahitian islanders Samaria and Fetu; Security specialists Axel and Marcus, and the return of Omar Daishel.

XANDER is a story of power and control, obsession and madness, family and friendships, relationships and love, The premise is dramatic and intriguing; the romance is impassioned; the characters are desperate and dynamic.

Own a copy

_________

COOPER
(Royal Protectors 4)
by Kat Mizera
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romantic suspense

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 26, 2024

I’m a soldier. My life is built on loyalty— to my country, my unit, my brothers-in-arms.

Nothing has ever come before duty.

Until Natalia. The bravest, most beautiful woman I’ve ever met. She’s fierce, breathtaking, and impossible to ignore.

Maybe that’s why when the Royal Protectors asked me to help finish her training, I had to say yes. But falling for her wasn’t part of the deal.

An attack on the palace while I’m visiting changes everything. I don’t know who needs me more—the royal family or Natalia.

Now, I’m torn between two missions. The problem is, protecting one might mean putting the other in danger.

My past is closing in, the enemy is getting closer, and I’m running out of time.

How the hell do I choose between my duty and my heart?

•••••••••

REVIEW: COOPER is the fourth instalment in Kat Mizera’s contemporary, adult ROYAL PROTECTORS erotic, romantic suspense series. This is US Army Captain Ryan Cooper, and former Limaj Marine and Royal Protector Natalia Farkas’ story line. COOPER can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Natalia was first introduced in book two Zander.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Ryan and Natalia) COOPER follows in the wake of the rescue of Ryan Cooper. Captain Ryan Cooper was Natalia Farkas’ commander while serving in the Middle East but a barely veiled attraction struggles with Natalia’s leave to go work with the Royal family in Limaj, her home country of origin. Natalie continues to struggle with PTSD, and when news of Ryan Cooper’s capture reaches home Natalie battles between head and heart believing she has lost again. A US Navy SEAL rescue, and inevitable recovery for Ryan in Germany forces Ryan to reconsider his future when Natalia offers her help and support, and a possible future with the Limaj Royal Protectors. Weeks of recovery and rehabilitation in Limaj brings our couple closer together but when the Royal family is target, not all is as it appears to be.

The world building follows several pathways including the rehabilitation of Captain Ryan Cooper, and his growing love for our story line heroine. Several attacks against the Royal family, and the capture of prisoners, forces Ryan to reconsider the future going forward when he begins to suspect the target of the attack is someone else.

The relationship between Ryan and Natalia begins in the Middle East when Natalia is assigned under Captain Ryan Cooper’s command. A brief one-night stand ends with Natalia deployed home as a future member of the Limaj Royal Protectors, but Natalia never forgot about the man she left behind. Working together in Limaj, Natalia finds herself falling for a man who has yet to determine his path towards the future. 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, familiar and dynamic secondary and supporting characters including Prince Sandor and Lennox, Princess Elen and Zander; King Erik and Queen Casey.

COOPER is a story of power and control, vengeance and war, family and relationships, acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is intriguing and captivating; the romance is passionate; the characters are determined and energetic.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

USA TODAY Bestselling Author Kat Mizera was born in Miami Beach with a healthy dose of Wanderlust. She’s lived from coast to coast, and everywhere in between, but home is wherever her family is. A devoted mom and wife to her wonderful and supportive husband (Kevin) and two amazing boys (Nick and Max), Kat loves to travel the globe with her adventurous, hockey loving family. Greece is at the top of that list. She hopes to one day retire there, spending her days writing books on the beach.

Kat is former freelance sports writer who now writes steamy hockey romance about her favorite fictional teams, the Las Vegas Sidewinders and the Lauderdale Knights. The library of novels she’s penned also include sexy contemporary stories about baseball stars, alpha sex club owners, bodyguards, rock stars, and royalty. Regardless of genre, her books about bad boys with hearts of gold will steal your breath, rock your world and melt your heart.

To find out about Kat Mizera’s  upcoming releases and giveaways, sign up for her newsletter here!

For more information on Kat Mizera and her books visit: https://katmizera.com/

Connect with Kat Mizera:

https://katmizera.com/pages/contact-kat

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Enticing Kane / Beckoning Liam (Club Tales)by Delta James-reviews

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Enticing Kane / Beckoning Liam (Club Tales 2 & 4) by Delta James-reviews

Enticing Kane
Club Tales #2
by Delta James
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, BDSM, romantic suspense

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 August 21, 2024

Two experts. One mission. A game they never expected to play.

Dr. Margaret Dillon never imagined her passion for archaeology would lead her into the heart of danger. At a remote Syrian dig site, she unearths a discovery that could rewrite history—but she also attracts the attention of those who would kill to possess it.

Cerberus operative and former Marine sniper Kane Chaplin, is assigned to protect Maggie from the threat gathering around her.

From the moment they meet, sparks fly—both from their clashing wills and undeniable attraction. But as local militias close in and the true stakes of their mission are revealed, Maggie and Kane are thrust into a race against time.

As danger looms Maggie and Kane must trust each other like never before. Together, they must protect a discovery that could change the world—if they can survive long enough to do so.

•••••

REVIEW: ENTICING KANE is the second instalment in Delta James’ contemporary, adult CLUB TALES erotic, romantic suspense series. This is archeologist Dr. Margaret ‘Maggie’ Dillon, and former US Marine sniper turn Cerberus operative Kane Chaplin’s story line. ENTICING KANE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. There is a slight sci-fi trope to this particular instalment.

NOTE: The backdrop of the series is a Dom/sub club and lifestyle choice but is not the main focus of the story.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Maggie and Kane) ENTICING KANE follows the building relationship between Maggie and Kane as Kane is contracted to protect our heroine on her latest archeology dig in Syria. Upon his retirement from the US military, Kane Chaplin was approached by the black ops/ intelligence group known as Cerberus, and with it, comes the opportunities to continue the work he loved the most but his latest assignment is to protect our story line heroine in the face of rogue militia men determined to take control, as Maggie and her team uncover an artifact that could change the world.

The world building focuses on the archeological dig in Syria, a dig that uncovers an ancient artifact that is purported to have immense powers. As Maggie and her team begin their search, a rogue militia unit lead by a former US Colonel, takes aim at our story line couple

The relationship between Maggie and Kane begins as an assignment but quickly turns into something more. Separated from the team after a cave in, our couple find themselves growing closer in the face of the unknown. Determined to protect Maggie, Kane finds himself falling for a woman he was hired to protect. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate and intense.

We are introduced to Maggie’s brother Matt, team member Sara Gray, former SAS commando and CEO of Cerberus Robert Fitzwallace, and Colone John Carter.

ENTICING KANE is a story of betrayal, greed, determination and protection. The fast paced premise is intriguing and entertaining but felt a little rushed; the romance is seductive and fated; the characters are dynamic and charismatic.

Copy supplied for review

________

BECKONING LIAM
Club Tales 4
by Delta James
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, BDSM, romantic suspense

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 20, 2024

He’s a jaded spy. She’s a brilliant linguist. Together, they’ll face a storm of bullets and desire.

Dr. Rebecca “Becks” Ashworth has a gift for languages that few can rival. As an Oxford linguistics professor and freelance translator for the world’s top intelligence agencies, she’s accustomed to solving puzzles. But when she deciphers a fragment of a message in an obscure dialect, a message hinting at a catastrophic terrorist plot, she becomes a target herself.

Liam O’Shea, a disillusioned MI6 operative, now working for Cerberus, thinks his latest assignment is protect linguistics professor Becks Ashworth, whose code-breaking skills have made her a target. He’s unprepared for the brilliant and headstrong woman who challenges his every move, he finds himself stirred by emotions he’s long kept buried.

Their alliance is uneasy, their attraction undeniable. Forced into the shadows, they race across Europe. With a terrorist on their trail and a conspiracy that reaches the highest levels of power, they must stay one step ahead of ruthless assassins and shadowy organizations.

Time is running out. The attack is imminent. Liam and Becks must decide what they’re willing to sacrifice for duty, truth, and a chance at love.

•••••••

REVIEW: BECKONING LIAM is the fourth instalment in Delta James’ contemporary, adult CLUB TALES dark, erotic, BDSM romantic suspense series. This is professor Dr. Rebecca ‘Becks Ashworth, and former MI6 and Cerberus security specialist Liam O’Shea’s story line. BECKONING LIAM 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 BDSM scenarios, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Liam and Becks) BECKONING LIAM focuses on the protection of our story heroine. Having quit as an agent of MI6 Liam O’Shea quickly found a home with a security firm known as Cerberus. His latest assignment places him in direct conflict with one of his subs, Professor Becks Ashworth, a woman who stirs something inside. Becks is a linguistics professor but as a translator for several intelligence agencies, Becks stumbled upon some dangerous information, information that has now placed a target on our heroine’s back by a deadly terrorist organization

The world building focuses on betrayal and espionage. Tired of the inconsistencies with MI6, Liam looks towards the future with Cerberus but not everything is as it appears to be when Liam encounters a former friend, playing a game for the other side. With Becks as his partner and sub, Liam finds himself on a cross continent journey searching for the truth.

The relationship between Becks and Liam begins as a Dom/sub arrangement that will become something else when Liam is assigned to protect our story line heroine but Becks claims she doesn’t want help, help that will be needed in only a matter of time. The BDSM and $ex scenes are intimate.

The secondary and supporting characters are energetic. We are reintroduced to Cerberus commander Robert Fitzwallace; Liam’s former MI6 mentor Marcus Hawthorne, as well as Russian agent Andrei Sokolov.

BECKONING LIAM is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, espionage and terrorism, acceptance and love. The fast paced, action packed premise is riveting; the romance is provocative; the characters are determined and dynamic. BECKONING LIAM ends on a HEA for now-the bad guys are still on the run.

Copies supplied for review

Reviews by Sandy

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Alpha’s Claim / Alpha’s Promise/ His Lost Mate by Delta James

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Alpha’s Claim / Alpha’s Promise/ His Lost Mate by Delta James-reviews

ALPHA’S CLAIM
(Copper Canyon Shifters 1)
by Delta James
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, romance

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 27, 2024

He’s the alpha of the pack. She’s a witch on the run. Until one stormy night changes everything.

Colt Savage is the alpha of the Copper Canyon wolf pack, dedicating his life to protecting his pack and running the family ranch with unwavering commitment.

One stormy night, a mysterious and battered young woman named Briar arrives at the ranch. The moment Colt catches her scent—an intoxicating aroma that stirs his very soul—he knows she’s different. His wolf recognizes her as his fated mate.

As Briar settles into ranch life, the chemistry between them becomes undeniable. Yet, she guards her secrets closely. When Colt finally confronts her, Briar reveals a shocking truth: she is a powerful witch on the run from a coven that seeks to exploit her immense abilities.

Colt vows to protect her, but trust doesn’t come easy within the pack. With tensions rising, he finds himself caught between pack politics and the relentless attacks from her coven. Loyalties are tested, and dangers lurk around every corner.

•••••

REVIEW: ALPHA’S CLAIM is the first instalment in Delta James’ contemporary, adult COPPER CANYON SHIFTERS erotic, paranormal, romance series. This wolf shifter /alpha Colt Savage, and witch Briar Lockwood’s story line.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Colt and Briar) and a final chapter from Landon, ALPHA’S CLAIM follows in the aftermath of the arrival of our story line heroine, an arrival marked by abuse and exhaustion. Colt Savage is the alpha shifter of the Copper Canyon wolf pack, and as such, continues to hope for a fated mate but no such luck from within his pack, and Colt suspects he will have to go on the hunt for the woman fated to be his mate but the arrival of an injured human female stirs Colt’s inner wolf, a wolf who knows Briar is their mate. Not everyone is happy with Briar’s arrival, and there are still others on the hunt hoping to claim Briar as their own.

The world building focuses on the infrastructure of the Copper Canyon Wolf pack, as well as the jealousy and potential in-fighting for a pack that usually gets along but the Savage brothers are all hoping to find a mate, a woman to match their power, hunger and control.

The relationship between Colt and Briar begins as a ‘rescue’ of a sorts when Briar arrives battered and bruised at the Copper Canyon wolf pack land. Colt knows immediately that Briar is his fated mate but Briar is on the run, hiding from people who have done her harm. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to several members of the Copper Canyon Wolf pack including Colt’s brothers Bryce and Landon; pack housekeeper Etta, and wanna-be mate Elle. The requisite evil has many faces.

ALPHA’S CLAIM is a story of power and control, secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, magic and the supernatural, acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is intriguing and entertaining but there is quite a bit of overlap and redundancy (retelling in different POV); the romance is swift and seductive; the characters are determined and dynamic.

_______

ALPHA’S PROMISE
(Copper Canyon Shifters 2)
by Delta James
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 28 , 2024

He’s the enigmatic middle brother. She’s a woman on the run. Until an explosive attraction and a hidden secret will change everything.

In the untamed wilderness of Copper Canyon, Landon Savage thrives on the freedom of the open range and the thrill of the unknown. As the charismatic middle brother of the Savage wolf pack, he’s never been one to settle down—until a mysterious woman appears on the horizon of his family ranch.

Dakota is a woman on the run from a past that shattered her trust and stole her dreams. Seeking solace, she never expected to find it among the rolling hills and under the vast skies of Copper Canyon ranch. Nor did she anticipate the magnetic pull toward the enigmatic cowboy who offers her a place to heal.

However, between pack members being wary of her and the arrival of danger from her past, Dakota’s new beginning is under threat. As passion blazes between them under silver moonlight, Landon vows to protect her at any cost—even if it means confronting his own fears and challenging his pack.

••••

REVIEW: ALPHA’S PROMISE is the second instalment in Delta James’ contemporary, adult COPPER CANYON SHIFTERS erotic, paranormal, romance series. This is wolf shifter Landon Savage, and Dakota Westwood’s story line. ALPHA’S PROMISE 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 omniscient third person perspectives (Dakota and Landon) with a final chapter from Bryce, ALPHA’S PROMISE focuses on the building relationship between wolf shifter Landon Savage, and Dakota Westwood. Dakota is on the run, having lost everything in the wake of her grandfather’s death but before he died, Dakota’s grandfather told her ‘look to the east, and finds the wolves’. With nothing left, Dakota followed her grandfather’s instructions, wherein she will come face to face with her future in the guise of wolf shifter Landon Savage. As her future begins to unfurl, the past refuses to let go, threatening our story line heroine in the process.

The world building focuses on Dakota’s struggled to survive in the wake of losing everything and more. Meeting Landon Savage gave Dakota a promise for the future but Landon had a secret that would come full circle with the woman he claims to be his fated mate.

The relationship between Dakota and Landon begins as a ‘rescue’ of a sorts . Dakota lost everything, but her independence meant going it alone until Landon uncovered the truth, and offered Dakota a future and more. 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 the return of Landon’s brother and pack alpha Cole and his mate Briar; their brother Bryce; housekeeper Etta, as well as Dakota’s ex -fiance.

ALPHA’S PROMISE is a story of secrets and lies, power and control, betrayal and greed, acceptance and love, magic and the supernatural. the premise is entertaining and action packed but once again, there is quite a bit of overlap and redundancy (retelling in different POV); the characters are charismatic; the romance is fated and impassioned.

_________

HIS LOST MATE
(Alaskan Tails 12)
by Delta James
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 12, 2024

She’s flying an experimental plane. He hides a wild, untamed secret.

When Air Force test pilot Phoebe Lawrence crash-lands in Alaska’s unforgiving wilderness, survival isn’t her only battle. Stranded and injured after a sabotaged mission, she finds an unlikely savior in Jonah Locke, a reclusive and rugged guide who seems more in tune with the wild than any man she’s ever met.

But Jonah isn’t just any man. Beneath his calm exterior lies a dangerous secret, one that ties him to the very wilderness they’re fighting to escape. As armed assailants close in and conspiracies unravel, the bond between them grows, introducing Phoebe into a world she never imagined.

While Jonah struggles to protect the woman fate has marked as his, Phoebe must decide whether to trust the enigmatic man whose touch sets her soul ablaze. Together, they face danger, desire, and a choice that will change their lives forever.

••••••

REVIEW: HIS LOST MATE is the twelfth instalment and stand alone in Delta James’ contemporary, adult ALASKAN TAILS erotic, paranormal, romance series. This is snow leopard Jonah Locke, and former fighter pilot turned Air Force test pilot Phoebe Lawrence’s story line.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Jonah and Phoebe) HIS LOST MATE focuses on the building relationship between snow leopard Jonah Locke, and Air Force test pilot Phoebe Lawrence in the wake of the crash of Phoebe’s jet. Phoebe Lawrence’s latest assignment is to test the military’s new Ghosthawk stealth fighter but Phoebe suspects the jet has been sabotaged and the inevitable spiral comes in the wake of a missile aimed at the government’s latest weapon. Alone in the Alaskan wilderness, Phoebe is rescued by Jonah Locke, a man who is not human, a man with whom Phoebe will quickly fall in love but all is not well as Jonah and Phoebe have a target on their backs, someone is determined to steal the information that went down in the crash.

The world building is fast and furious. Phoebe and Jonah are on the run, one-step ahead of the people determined to destroy them both but Jonah has a secret, one that Phoebe is about to witness first hand.

The relationship between Phoebe and Jonah is one of fated mates. A crash landing, and an injured woman pull Jonah towards his inevitable future. Jonah’s inner snow leopard believes they have found their mate, and Jonah refuses to give up on the woman who has a target on her back. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.

The secondary and supporting characters are few. We are introduced to Lt. Colonel Jessica Mitchell, and executive officer Major Simpson.

HIS LOST MATE is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is intriguing and interesting; the romance is fated and impassioned; the characters are determined and supernatural.

Copies supplied for review

Reviews by Sandy

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LOVE GAMBLE (Angels and Devils MC 3) by Chantal Fernando-review

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LOVE GAMBLE (Angels and Devils MC 3) by Chantal Fernando-review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 24, 2024

He wants to keep her safe. She just wants him.

Damon

As a high-ranking member of the Devils MC, I’m a marked man. It’s why I push Corey away. But once I taste her, keeping her at arm’s length isn’t an option. It doesn’t matter that she’s ten years younger, or that my name will move to the top of her brother’s hit list.

She’s mine.

I’m going to keep her—whatever it takes.

Corey

Nothing’s been the same since I was kidnapped. I don’t know what’s next for me, but I know I want forever with Damon. I have since the moment he kissed me. I don’t care that he’s older, or that my family doesn’t approve. I’ll stand by his side, even when my half brother rolls into town ready to tear the Club apart in his quest for vengeance.

Damon’s mine.

I’m not letting him go. No matter the cost.

••••••

REVIEW: LOVE GAMBLE is the third and final instalment in Chantal Fernando’s contemporary, adult ANGELS AND DEVILS MC romance series. This is MC Sergeant at arms Damon and Corey’s story line. LOVE GAMBLE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Corey is River and Romeo’s sister.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Damon and Corey) LOVE GAMBLE follows the building but forbidden relationship between our story line couple. Corey’s brother River and Romeo are high ranking members of the Angels and Devils MC, and as such they have declared Corey off-limits to the other members of the MC. Corey and the new sergeant at arms Damon have been dancing around one another for quite a long time, a dance that is about to become personal and real but not before several other women decided they want Damon for themselves. All is not boding well for the Angels and Devils MC when are new MC known as the Lost Lions comes into town, demanding information, threatening the members of the local MC.

The world building follows several pathways including the dysfunctional family dynamics of Corey’s family; the women who come in and out of the members’ lives; as well as the threats against the MC that are personal and dark.

The relationship between Corey and Damon is one of mutual attraction but Corey is off-limits to the members of the Angels and Devil’s MC. Deciding she has had enough of the ‘dance’, Corey forces Damon to make a choice, a choice between her and someone else. The $ex scenes are passionate but mostly implied, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters including Romeo and Julianna, River and Bella, as well as several members of the Angels and Devils MC. There are most stories to tell-I am hoping the author has plans for the other characters.

LOVE GAMBLE is a story of betrayal and obsession, madness and vengeance, family and friendships, acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is edgy and impassioned; the romance is seductive; the characters are energetic, intense, and dynamic.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Love Grudge
Love Betrayal

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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ZAIN (Chosen Few 3) by Samantha Wilde-review

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ZAIN (Chosen Few 3) by Samantha Wilde

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 3, 2024

He’s left everything behind, only to find himself again in the eyes of a beautiful stranger . .

He’s become one of them.

Zain Mitry has lost everything His name, his identity, and his humanity. All that’s left is a cold shell of the alias he’s become—an active member in Samad, a terrorist group.

Afghanistan isn’t for the faint of heart, but fear doesn’t reach his veins until he witnesses Samad’s leader take a woman hostage from a protest. Her electrifying blue eyes capture Zain’s and he’s spellbound by her bold, fiery nature.

Despite the distance between his heart and reality, he can’t turn a blind eye when the woman is attacked. He rushes to rescue her—and the first word she speaks to him—a word no one on this side of the world identifies him with. The only tether to his old life.

The name that will destroy him—Zain. She’s vowed to find a man she’s never met.

Ex-FBI analyst Dana McAvery can’t explain what drew her to Zain’s case. But finding the missing Green Beret soldier became her mission.

But coming face-to-face with the man who’s monopolized every spare moment of her mind shakes her. His tall, dark and formidable stare rocks her confidence. She expected to find a prisoner, a man in need of rescue—but a brutal killer stands before her.

One that places himself between her and danger. And god help her, she wants more of him. Finding Zain isn’t the issue—but with a terrorist group after them, getting them both home might be an impossible feat.

••••••

REVIEW: ZAIN is the third instalment in Samantha Wilde’s contemporary, adult CHOSEN FEW erotic, romantic suspense series, a cross-over with the author’s BLOOD BROTHERS series. This is US army soldier Zain Mitry, and former FBI analyst Dana McAvery’s story line. ZAIN 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 may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Dana and Zain) ZAIN follows in the wake of the search and ‘rescue’ of our story line hero. Zain Mitry, is a USA army soldier / Green Beret who went missing in Afghanistan approximately three years earlier in the aftermath of an explosion that killed his entire team. When news came that Zain had been sighted, former FBI analyst Dana McAvery, now working as part of the team at Backcountry Protection Services, enacts an ill-gotten plan to rescue a man who did not need rescuing. On the run in Afghanistan and Pakistan, Dana and Zain were about to face down a familiar enemy, someone who refused to back down in the face of losing it all.

The world building focuses on the search and rescue of Zain Mitry; the revelation of betrayal from the top; and the building relationship between two people who have had enough excitement and danger to last a lifetime.

The relationship between Zain and Dana begins as a ‘rescue’, of sorts but our couple find themselves a target of some very powerful men. On the run, hopefully heading towards their own rescue, Zain and Dana find themselves facing down more than one person hoping to destroy them both. Back home, Zain and Dana take their relationship to the next level but the enemy has followed them Stateside, an enemy that won’t stop until they are both gone. 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 enterprising secondary and supporting characters including Dana’s brother Taschen; Zain’s brother Rami (Chosen Few 1), August (Chosen Few 2), Toth Holmes, and their significant others; Zain’s CIA contact Maxine, and several members of some powerful terrorist groups in the Middle East. The requisite evil has many faces. Taschen’s story line is next.

ZAIN is a story of betrayal and vengeance, power and control, secrets and lies, murder and torture; family and friendships, relationships and love. The premise is dramatic and dark; the romance is seductive and passionate; the characters are desperate, determined and dynamic.

Own a copy

Reviewed by Sandy

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Crystal Iris (Crystal Iris) by Blair M Shadows-review & interview

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Crystal Iris (Crystal Iris 1) by Blair M  Shadows -review and interview

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 1, 2024

Get ready to lose yourself in a world where art and magic intertwine with a blistering hot romance.

Crystal Iris: Book I is the beginning of a tantalizing magical romance series brimming with mystery, modern conflicts, and a love story that will leave you aching for more. A sexy, addictive mystical fantasy with a strong female lead, swoon-worthy book boyfriends, and plenty of spice—perfect for fans of books featured on BookTok.

Professor Iris De Loughery’s life changes on the night of her thirtieth birthday. The gift she receives from her distant father defies reality as she knows it, launching her on a journey of self-discovery alongside a dive into the spectral unknown. Shaken by her relationships, the Harvard art history professor’s struggles intensify when she meets Hoyt, another prism possessor. Controlling her feelings will be her first challenge in this wicked spicy series.

•••••••••••••

REVIEW:

“Life beats down and crushes the soul and art reminds you that you have one.” – Stella Adler”

I love the cover. Definitely in my discreet era 😜

I wasn’t to enamoured by the blurb if I’m honest. And maybe I should have gone in blind. Sometime you are pleasantly surprised.

“The greater the artist, the greater the doubt. Perfect confidence is granted to the less talented as a consolation prize.” – Robert Hughes”

But the book, the book had a few issues, but I couldn’t put it down until the last page was done. It was a little slow in places, and a few discrepancies, but it didn’t take away from the drama and storytelling.

I also liked the little quotes at the beginning of each chapter, I’m not a big lover of history (although I do read historical romance 😉) but I found the snippets the author gave us really fascinating, I felt it added something extra to the story. The MFC is a history professor, so it was a good idea that she could actually tell us a little a little it.)

“One can have no smaller or greater mastery than mastery of oneself.” – Leonardo da Vinci”

MFC is an older character (which I always like, love isn’t just for the young you know 😉) and with an established career and life already. But life isn’t always played out the way you plan it……

Iris is given a gift from an absent father (we get to find out more through the book.) At first Iris wants nothing to with her father or the gift, but curiosity wins out…..

“The artist’s world is limitless. It can be found anywhere, far from where he lives or a few feet away. It is always on his doorstep.” – Paul Strand”

What I liked was this book didn’t info dump on you, it gave it in easy segments, so that it didn’t overwhelm or confuse the reader. (I don’t need confusing thanks 😉)

Hoyt is also a prism holder. And that’s what connects them at first. The friendship grows and venues something more….

But we also have mystery and drama. And that’s the bit I loved. It keeps you wondering how this will turn out

There are so many questions that need answering in the book …..

What’s a prism? What’s its purpose? How does it involve Iris and Hoyt?

And do her mother’s letters hold more clues or questions?

You will have to read the book to find out if my questions are answered.

And the ending!! What a way to leave it open for the next book (which i hope is soon 🤞)

SO if you ignore the blurb and dive straight in I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. Plenty of intrigue and mystery. A puzzle that needs solving (I did guess a few things pretty quick, but others completely surprised me.) it says a spicy romance, and then someone describes it as a slow burn 🤷🏻‍♀️ I’ll leave that for you to decide.

Copy supplied for review

🦋 Reviewed by Julie

TRC: .Hi Blair and welcome to The Reading Cafe. Congratulations on the release of Crystal Iris. We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself? 

Blair: I’m a mom first and foremost, and a nostalgic at heart. I love researching and reading about history and art. Having lived in a few exciting places and traveled extensively for work, I’ve gained a broad perspective on the world.

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing? 

Blair: My background is in film and TV, and from a young age, I knew I wanted to be involved in telling stories. Coming from a creative family, I was always encouraged to pursue this path.

TRC: What challenges or difficulties did you encounter writing and publishing this story?

Blair: I wish I could say the path has been smooth, but I’ve had to battle self-doubt on a daily basis—something that’s probably common when writing a debut novel. Publishing is an entirely different beast, one I’m still navigating. My mantra has always been: ‘One day at a time.

TRC: Would you please tell us something about the premise of   CRYSTAL IRIS?

Blair: Crystal Iris is a story about love—primarily self-love. It weaves in magical elements, spice, betrayals, and art, but at its core, it’s about discovering who we truly are when faced with life’s challenges.

TRC: What kind of research/plotting did you do, and how long did you spend researching /plotting before beginning CRYSTAL IRIS

BLAIR: I started writing Crystal Iris about seven years ago, and the research has been my favorite part. I loved diving deeper into art history, which was my minor in college.

TRC: Is CRYSTAL IRIS part of a series? A stand alone?

Blair: It’s the first book of a series.

TRC: Do you have plans for a series/ or story for any of the secondary characters?

Blair: All the characters play an important role in the overall story, but as of now, there isn’t a specific book planned for any of them.

TRC: Do you have any interest in writing, or have you ever written for another genre?

Blair: I can see myself writing something in the horror genre.

TRC: Believability is an important factor in writing story lines .How do you keep the fantasy  story line believable? Where do you think some author’s fail?

Blair: Since Crystal Iris isn’t high fantasy, I was careful about how I introduced magical elements, especially since the story is set in the real world. I wanted to bring in the supernatural gradually, building on it with each book. I think it could lose its impact if those elements were revealed too quickly or out of context.”

TRC: Do you believe the cover image plays a deciding factor for many readers in the process of selecting a book or new series to read?

Blair: Yes, packaging matters in all products, and books are no exception.

TRC: When writing a storyline, do the characters direct the writing or do you direct the characters?

Blair: In my case, the characters make their own choices—I’m just along for the ride.

TRC: The mark of a good writer is to pull the reader into the storyline so that they experience the emotions along with the characters. What do you believe a writer must do to make this happen?  Where do you believe writer’s fail in this endeavor?

Blair: I think when the character drives the story, it’s much easier to connect with their emotions. When an author tries to restrain the narrative, things can feel forced.

TRC:Do you listen to music while writing? If so, does the style of music influence the storyline direction? Characters?

Blair: I need complete silence when writing, but I love listening to music while going for walks and thinking about the story. I see my characters as real people—they have hobbies, tastes in food, and, of course, their own music preferences. There’s a playlist on Spotify for Crystal Iris Book One, in case anyone’s curious about the music vibes.

TRC: What do you believe is the biggest misconception people have about authors?

Blair: People often think being an author must be very relaxing, but I’ve found the opposite to be true.

TRC: What is something that few, if anyone, know about you?

Blair: I’m a bit of a neat freak—things only bring me stress if they’re not in the way I think they should be.

TRC: Who or what influenced your path towards a young adult, paranormal story line.

Blair: I write what I want to read; I’m basically my own audience.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Blair: Crystal Iris book two.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Blair: Thank you so much for this opportunity, I really appreciate the support.

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food- Italian

Favorite Dessert– Ice cream

Favorite TV Show -Lost

Last Movie You Saw- Home alone (my son’s first time)

Dark or Milk Chocolate– Milk chocolate 

Secret Celebrity Crush -Justin Timberlake 

Last Vacation –Destination Rio, Brazil summer 2024

Do you have any pets? -Not currently 

Last book you read -Slow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout by Carl Newport

TRC: Thank you Blair for taking the time to answer our questions. We wish you all the best.

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CHRISTMAS WITH THE REAPER (Apocalyptic Love 1) by Rose Wulf

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CHRISTMAS WITH THE REAPER (Apocalyptic Love 1) by Rose Wulf-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 20, 2024

Death was never supposed to fall in love…

Fenn had long given up on knowing the warmth of another by the day he met her.
Sienna Jacobsen.

A woman who was somehow immune to the touch of Death.

With Christmas just around the corner, Sienna was once again desperate to find someone she could bring home for the weekend.

Talk about the perfect time to finally meet the very literal man of her dreams.

He was supposed to be investigating Sienna’s death-touch immunity, but the only touch on either of their minds was the kind he’d so long been denied. And he couldn’t keep his hands off.

Her sisters had their reservations about Fenn, but it was his personal stalker that threatened to ruin the holiday

••••••

REVIEW: CHRISTMAS WITH THE REAPER is the first instalment in Rose Wulf’s contemporary, adult APOCALYPTIC LOVE erotic, paranormal, fantasy, mythology series. This is Death aka Fenn, and Sienna Jacobsen’s story line.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Sienna and Fenn) CHRISTMAS WITH THE REAPER focuses on the building relationship between Sienna Jacobsen, a woman with the ability to see the future, and Fenn, one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. Fenn has never known human touch or otherwise, and as one of the Four Horsemen, never expected to fall in love but the touch of a woman with powers of her own gives Fenn thoughts for a future even if only for a limited time. Sienna Jacobsen is a clairvoyant, one of three sisters with supernatural powers, and thought to be blessed by the gods, the Jacobsen sisters try to keep to themselves but a Christmas reunion forces Sienna to look for a plus-one, and Fenn is perfect for the time. Meanwhile Fenn has a stalker, a stalker who takes aim at our story line heroine, using her sisters as collateral damage.

The world building reveals some of Fenn’s history, and the introduction of the other Horsemen, as well as the deities and demi-gods seeking revenge or the ultimate prize.

The relationship between Fenn and Sienna begins by accident when Sienna touches a man who has never been touched.For years, Sienna, as a clairvoyant, has witnessed a stranger in her dreams, a stranger who is about to become her happily ever after. Falling in love was never meant to be, Sienna suspects her relationship with Fenn comes with an expiry date. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to Sienna’s ‘magical’ sisters: Maya and Piper, and her best friend Sherri; as well as the other Horsemen: Cassian aka Famine, Sulien aka War, Rajan aka Famine; Florence Dossit; and Moirai Lauryn, aka Fate, and a demi-god with ulterior motives.

CHRISTMAS WITH THE REAPER is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance,obsession and madness, acceptance and love. The premise is enchanting and intriguing; the romance is provocative; the characters are magical and determined.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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