Tag Archives: 1001 Dark Nights

Nothing But Ink (Fort Collins 3.5) by Carrie Ann Ryan-Review Tour

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Nothing But Ink (Montgomery Ink: Fort Collins 3.5 / 1001 Dark Nights) by Carrie Ann Ryan-Review & Excerpt Tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 25, 2022.

Clay Hollins knows he needs to stay away from Riggs Kennedy. He doesn’t have time to fall for the bearded bartender that haunts his dreams and waking fantasies. Not only is he working long hours at his dream job with Montgomery Builders, but he’s raising his three cousins and they need him more than he needs a private life.

After one night of giving in, however, neither Riggs nor Clay can walk away.

Only their lives are chaotic with baggage from Riggs’ past and Clay’s present and taking a chance on each other might be the scariest yet best decision they ever make.

••••••

REVIEW: *Rubs hands together in glee*

I love when C.A.R does a MM romance, it just works for me in so many ways. 😉 Nothing but Ink is a novella that takes place in the Montgomery Ink Fort Collins series. In this quick little story we get Clay and Riggs’ adventure.

We’ve known Clay and Riggs through a few other books, but now we get their story and all the fabulousness that comes with it. Now, I didn’t know how well these two were gonna mix, but I am happy to report that I really enjoyed their story.

Clay is all about raising the kids he has, his life is busy trying to be super Dad, and poor Riggs is still carrying around all the baggage from his past. Learning about their past connection, then when they finally give in to one another made the story. You can feel their chemistry, and then they fall right into this messy, crazy relationship together. It was everything! As with all stories, of course there are some dumps and bruises along the way, but none that can stop these two from being together.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Inked Persuasion
Inked Obsession
Inked Devotion

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sarah

 

 

I should be wondering what the hell I was doing, yet I wasn’t going to ask that question of myself. I wasn’t going to question this. For once, I would think of myself and do what I wanted.
Damn the consequences.
“The number of thoughts running over your face right now could tell a story. Or maybe it’s a whole novel,” Riggs observed as he came to me with a glass in hand. I looked down at the golden liquid in the lowball glass, then up at him.
“Honey whiskey?”
“You know it.”
Riggs sat next to me on his couch, and I let out a hushed breath, wondering how the hell I was here. I wasn’t some young kid. I had been on dates before. I had slept with a man before.
It didn’t mean that I knew what the fuck I was doing now, though.
“Cheers.”
Riggs held up his glass, and I touched mine to his before taking a sip of my whiskey. The sweet taste slid over my tongue, and I swallowed, wondering if I should just toss the rest back.
“Don’t you dare do it like a tequila shot,” Riggs stated with a laugh.
I winced, then held back a laugh at what Riggs was referring to. The Montgomerys in Fort Collins loved their tequila and were damn good with it. “You know I like tequila as much as the next guy, but those Montgomerys sure can drink it.”
Riggs snorted. “It’s a little scary, to be honest. And none of them are assholes about it. They can do shots without lime or even making that weird face, and then let their designated driver or rideshare take them home. There’s no fighting. There’s no random backslapping or dancing on tabletops. They can handle their tequila. Just like I know you can handle your whiskey.”
Riggs took another sip of his, and I did my best not to watch his throat work as he swallowed. It was hard to think with him right there.
With me right here.
He was so close, and I still couldn’t believe I was here in his house. I wasn’t at home dealing with homework, picking up backpacks or shoes, or tucking in a kid for the evening.
When was the last time I’d had an evening just for myself?
The fact that I had to ask that told me I should have thought about it long ago.


 

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Carrie Ann Ryan is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary, paranormal, and young adult romance. Her works include the Montgomery Ink, Redwood Pack, Fractured Connections, and Elements of Five series, which have sold over 3.0 million books worldwide. She started writing while in graduate school for her advanced degree in chemistry and hasn’t stopped since. Carrie Ann has written over seventy-five novels and novellas with more in the works. When she’s not losing herself in her emotional and action-packed worlds, she’s reading as much as she can while wrangling her clowder of cats who have more followers than she does.

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The Darkest Destiny by Gena Showalter-Review tour

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The Darkest Destiny (Lords of the Underworld/ 1001 Dark Nights) by Gena Showalter-Review tour

 

 

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Add The Darkest Destiny to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/37esXBc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 7, 2021.

Forsaken. Deathless. A monster in every way. Mostly, Brochan is determined. He craves what fate promised him—the woman who will help him conquer a heavenly kingdom. He will stop at nothing to win her.

Viola, Keeper of the demon of Narcissism, lives for a single purpose—treating herself and her pet to the best life possible. But a crazed warrior is now appearing everywhere she ventures, ruining her fun…. tempting her beyond reason and keeping her at a razor-edge of desire.

Though legions of males have attempted to win her, all have failed. Somehow, this rampaging beast is tearing down her walls, one by one, claiming he owns her heart and her very destiny. To be with him, however, she must defeat the only force strong enough to destroy her—love.

••••••

REVIEW:It’s been a while since I’ve read this author (I tend only to read her lords of the underworld series) so I was excited to find out she’s written another short story in this series.

Viola has the demon Narcissism contained inside her body (many centuries ago a group of warriors were guarding Pandora’s box, they were foolish enough to open it, all the demons escaped! As punishment those guards were made to live with a demon inside of them, prisoners of the gods were also punished with the demons)

So your wondering if Viola is a warrior or an enemy of the Gods?! (Read the book and you’ll find out ?She is also the keeper of the Afterlife (you’ll find out how in the book) Viola cares for nothing except herself, (well that the definition of narcissism) until her pet fluffy enters her life. (She thinks of her pet as a child) She lives only to entertain and amuse herself and care for fluffy, by taking immortal souls.I wasn’t a big lover of this character when she was first introduced into the LOTU (lords of the underworld) but in this book my opinion changes.

Brochan doesn’t house a demon inside himself. But he certainly comes with enough of his own issues! The more I read of him, the more I felt sorry for him (and to be honest, most of the characters in this series have a pretty horrible life) he was an angel until he fell (due to Viola! And now he made it his mission to find answers, then take her head!

This pairing was just great. How they meet had me chuckling, which turned into amazement, which soon morphed into shock!

Although a short story, it packs a whole lot into it….Betrayal, laughter, suspense and a few steamy moments. I understand the character a lot more after reading her background, she’s still not one of my favourite characters, but I like her a whole lot more now. Brochan was a great character he had so much potential and excelled beyond even his own expectations.

It’s not necessary to read all the previous books in this series (15 books and a few novellas!) as this book will happily stand on its own.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie ?

Gena Showalter is the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of over fifty books, including the acclaimed Lords of the Underworld and Angels of the Dark series, and the White Rabbit Chronicles. She writes sizzling paranormal romance, heartwarming contemporary romance, and unputdownable young adult novels, and lives in Oklahoma City with her family and menagerie of dogs. Visit her at GenaShowalter.com.

Connect with Gena:

Website| Facebook| Twitter| Instagram| Goodreads

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Change with Me (1001 Dark Nights) by Kristen Proby-review tour

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Change with Me (With Me in Seattle/1001 Dark Nights) by Kristen Proby-review tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 30, 2021.

Zane Cooper. Hollywood royalty. Fourth generation superstar. He knows what it is to be one of the biggest celebrities in the world. And how lonely that title truly is. When scandal hits, his career hangs in the balance, and Zane flees LA for Seattle, laying low with his newly married best friend. Things will eventually blow over, and he’ll have his life back soon enough.

Aubrey Stansfield arrives in Seattle excited to start a new job, and eager to settle into her new home. But when she arrives at her rental, Aubrey’s sure she’s imagining things because the uber sexy Zane Cooper is unpacking in her new bedroom. Thanks to a rental snafu, and unwilling to relocate on such short notice, Aubrey and Zane are thrust into being roommates.

Aubrey is about as average as a woman gets, so what could the megastar possibly see in her? She tells herself she’s not interested, despite their undeniable chemistry. But Zane is very persuasive, and soon Aubrey finds herself playing house with the most recognized man on the planet. Deep down, she knows it’s all a fantasy. He’ll head back to his posh lifestyle soon and leave her behind. No way could she fall in love with him.

But love doesn’t always follow the rules…

**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you’ll enjoy each one as much as we do.**

••••••

REVIEW:CHANGE WITH ME is the 17.5 instalment in Kristen Proby’s contemporary, adult WITH ME IN SEATTLE romance series and the author’s latest addition to the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights. . This is thirty year old Hollywood star Zane Cooper, and primary school teacher Aubrey Stansfield’s story line. CHANGE WITH ME 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 third person perspectives (Zane and Aubrey) CHANGE WITH ME follows in the wake of a scandal for Hollywood star Zane Cooper. With another scandal slowly destroying his reputation, Zane Cooper has been advised to take a well-earned time out where he lands in Seattle for a six month hiatus but Zane never expected that the condo he rented came with another occupant in the guise of primary school teacher Aubrey Stansfield. A mix up in rentals finds Aubrey and Zane living together, a situation that begins to build a palpable sexual attraction between our couple, an attraction that Aubrey finds hard to understand. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Aubrey and Zane, and the potential fall-out as Aubrey finds herself on the outside looking in.

Aubrey considers herself a plain Jane; an unattractive nobody but a woman whose is strong enough to know when to walk away. Meeting Hollywood heart throb Zane Cooper has our heroine believing she is out of her league never expecting to fall for a man who could have the love of anyone he wants.

The relationship between Aubrey and Zane begins as forced proximity, a mix up in rentals that finds our couple living together in spite of everything that went wrong. From the outset, Aubrey knows exactly who and what Zane Cooper represents but our heroine is one of the few people to treat Zane Cooper like one of the boys. The $ex scenes are passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are reintroduced to Zane’s friends and fellow actress Rina and Ben (Shine With Me 15.5), as well as Hunter Myers (Flirt With Me).

CHANGE WITH ME is a story of friendships and relationships, understanding and love. The fast paced premise is engaging and entertaining; the romance is swift and sexy; the characters are energetic and fun.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

NOTE: The excerpt is intended for mature readers due to strong language and content

 

“Who are you?”
My heart jumps, and my stomach jolts as I spin and see a man walk out of the master bath. He’s tall. He’s frowning.
And he looks familiar.
“The question is, who are you?” Why did I leave my purse—and my mace—in the kitchen?
“You’re in my condo,” he retorts.
“No, you’re in my condo,” I reply and cross my arms over my chest, trying to look mean. “This is two-oh-three A. Mine. If you’re going to murder-death-kill me, I’m going to ask you to take today off and do it to someone else because I’ve had a long drive, and I need to get ready for my new job. Now, see yourself out.”
Is that me, sounding all calm and collected?
I’m never this calm. Or collected.
Seattle is clearly good for me.
“I hate to burst your bubble,” the stranger replies, “but I’m not leaving. I leased this place, and I’m moving in today.”
“But.” I frown. “I leased this place. And I’m moving in today.”
I stomp out of the bedroom and head straight for the kitchen, opening my bag to retrieve my phone.
I also set my mace on the counter, just in case.
“I can show you the lease.”
“Same,” he replies. “Landlord fucked up.”
I blink, open my mouth, then close it again.
“What’s in here?” He opens my pink box and surveys the goods. “These cake donuts are my weakness.”
Before my eyes, he grabs one and takes a big bite.
“So now you’re stealing my house and my food?”
“I didn’t steal anything,” he says with a full mouth. “Well, except the donut.”
“You’re going to have to move,” I inform him. “I already paid for the first month and the security deposit.”
“I paid six months in advance,” he says, swallows, and then smiles. Suddenly, I know exactly where I’ve seen him before.
This is Zane Cooper. The actor. The celebrity.
He must see the recognition in my eyes because his go ice-cold.
“I can’t afford to find a new place,” I inform him. “It took me a month to find this one. And it’s perfect for me. It’s less than six blocks from the school I’ll be teaching at, so I can walk every day. And it’s furnished. Plus, it’s close to the water.”
“Definitely perfect,” he agrees.
“Oh my God, why are you here?” I demand and prop my hands on my hips. “You’re a gazillionaire. You could literally go anywhere. Why do you want my condo?”
“I’m not a gazillionaire,” he says and crosses his arms over his chest. “I’m more of a trazillionaire.”
“Pretty sure that’s the same thing. So, go build your own building and live in it.”
“Nah.” He picks a piece of donut out of his teeth and shakes his head slowly. “I don’t think I will. I’ll stay here.”
I blink at him and start to feel helpless. My savings is in this place. I don’t have enough left to rent anything else.
And I don’t have time. I start work in just three days.
Part of me wants to cry, but I’ll be damned if I let this hoity-toity movie star see me upset.
So, I do the only thing I can think of.
I prop my fist on the opposite hand in a challenge of rock, paper, scissors.
“What are you doing?” he asks, raising one sexy eyebrow.
“The adult thing,” I reply primly. “Best out of three wins?”
He blinks twice, looks from my hands to my face and back again, then shrugs one muscular shoulder and assumes the position.
“Fine,” he says. “I’m going to win—wait. What’s your name?”
“Aubrey,” I say and lick my lips. “Aubrey Stansfield. And you’re Wyatt Earp.”
His lips twitch into a half-smile. “I only played him on TV.”
I chuckle and say, “Ready?”
“Go,” he says, and we thump our fists three times.
I land on scissors.
He fists for rock.
Damn it.
“Let’s go again,” Zane says.
One. Two. Three.
I land on paper.
He chooses rock again.
I grin, and his blue eyes smile back.
There’s a reason Zane Cooper is the hottest sex symbol in the world. Good God, I might combust just from standing next to him.
All the more reason to get him out of my house.
“Last one,” I say. “Go.”
One. Two. Three.
I land on paper again, assuming Zane only knows how to use rock.
But he forms scissors.
I breathe deeply and reach for my last damn donut.
“That’s mine,” he says, and I whirl on him.
“This is mine,” I reply hotly. “I stood in a bloody line in Portland for it, just this morning. I drove all the way here from Arizona. I’m tired. I’m a little scared. And now I have you in my house, and you won’t leave. Even better than that, you just stole it out from under me.”
“I won it,” he reminds me. “Fair and square. The donut, that is.”
I stop and frown at him. “Huh?”
“I won the donut. In the rock-paper-scissors game.”
“I was playing for the condo, Wyatt.”
He barks out a laugh. “Not me. I want that donut.” 


 

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New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Kristen Proby is the author of the bestselling With Me In Seattle and Love Under the Big Sky series. She has a passion for a good love story and strong, humorous characters with a strong sense of loyalty and family. Her men are the alpha type; fiercely protective and a bit bossy, and her ladies are fun, strong, and not afraid to stand up for themselves. Kristen lives in Montana with her husband and their four pets, where she enjoys coffee, chocolate and sunshine. And naps.

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The Rhythm Method (Stage Dive 4.8) by Kylie Scott-Review Tour

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The Rhythm Method (Stage Dive 4.8) by Kylie Scott-Review & Excerpt  Tour

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Add The Rhythm Method to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3A4gZXi

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 9, 2021

It all started in Vegas…

After a wild and tumultuous beginning to their relationship, Evelyn Thomas and her rock star husband David Ferris have been happily married for years. Nothing needs to change, their life together is perfect. Which means that change in the shape of an unexpected pregnancy is bound to shake things up some. But could it be for the better?

**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you’ll enjoy each one as much as we do.**

•••••••

REVIEW:THE RYHTHM METHOD is instalment 4.8 in Kylie Scott’s contemporary, adult STAGE DIVE rock star, romance series, and the last instalment in the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights series. THE RHYTHM METHOD is the continuing story of lead singer for Stage Dive David Ferris, and his wife Evelyn. THE RHYTHM METHOD can be read as a stand alone but for back story and cohesion I recommend reading the series in order,or at the very least LICK where David and Evelyn’s story begins.

Told from first person perspective (Evelyn) THE RHYTHM METHOD focuses on the unexpected pregnancy and delivery of David and Evelyn’s first child, a pregnancy of which no one knew. Both shocked and excited, David and Evelyn struggle in the early days following the birth of their son, so much so, that their happiness is threatened when David is unable to except the changes that are about to unfold.

THE RHYTHM METHOD reunites most of the previous story line couples, including all of the members of Stage Dive, and their significant others. Kylie Scott pulls the reader into a shocking revelation, not only for the fans, but for the story line couple, as well. David Ferris and Stage Dive are a world-wide phenomenon, and our hero struggles in the face of new responsibilities, and having to share the woman he loves with someone else. The premise is emotional; the romance is passionate; the characters are familiar and captivating-always a fun time with Mal.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Lick
Play
Lead
Deep
Strong 4.5
Closer 4.6
Love Song 4.7

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

“In about five years,” he agreed, taking a swig from his bottle of beer. Because you could take the rock star to Paris and dress him in a three-piece suit, but he still wouldn’t be sipping champagne. Thank you very much.
“That’s the plan,” I said.
“And you do like your plans.”
The man was right about that. Some people could go through life flying by the seat of their pants. Content to not know what would happen next. I was not one of those people. I both knew and accepted this about myself. Know thyself and all that. Lists were my friends. Neatly ordered inventories of anything and everything going on in my life. Places to be. Things to do. Targets to be achieved at work. Planning was how I gave shape and context to my existence which in turn helped me live life to the fullest. Not that I didn’t mind taking a walk on the wild side now and then. I had woken up in Vegas married to a rock star, after all. But being organized was where I thrived. It was my happy place.
“I say we enjoy ourselves while we can.” His fingers crept beneath my long blonde hair to rub my neck. Guitarists’ hands were wonderful things. So much strength and dexterity. Not to mention the creativity.
I raised a brow. “Are you talking about the bathroom again?”
“The way I figure it, this suite has four rooms,” he said, voice low and husky. Sexy as fuck. My panties grew damper with every word he whispered. “The bedroom, bathroom, dining room, and this formal parlor or whatever the hell the butler called it. Now, given how much we’re paying per night, it would be wrong of us to not make the most of the place.”
“Oh.”

Kylie is a long time fan of erotic love stories and B-grade horror films. She demands a happy ending and if blood and carnage occur along the way then all the better. Based in Queensland, Australia with her two children and one delightful husband, she reads, writes and never dithers around on the internet

Stalk Kylie Scott: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

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More Than Possess You by Shayla Black-Review & Excerpt Tour

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More Than Possess You (More Than Words 6.75/ 1001 Dark Nights) by Shayla Black-Review & Excerpt Tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 28, 2021

I persuaded my best friend that I should be her first…

I’m Hayes Elliott. Since second grade, I’ve had one best friend, Echo Hope. When she graduates from college, of course I have to give her something amazing. Since I’ll be on a business trip to Maui, I’m bringing her along for a week of fun and sun. But once she sheds her long skirts, serious buns, and combat boots for bikinis, I can’t deny how stunning she is…and I can’t stop wanting her. Worse, she’s determined to lose her V-card—and has asked one of our man-whoring buddies to pluck it.

I’ve got to step in.

It’s underhanded, but I offer to do the job properly. Since I’m no one’s Prince Charming, I have no intention of following through. Suddenly, the kisses start and the clothes come off…and I can’t remember why I’m not supposed to make her mine in every way. Or why I shouldn’t be in love with her. But if I want Echo for more than a vacation fling, I’ll have to fight. And she’s about to find out how determined I am to upgrade my best friend to wife.

**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you’ll enjoy each one as much as we do.**

••••••••

REVIEW:MORE THAN POSSESS YOU by Shayla Black is a contemporary adult, story line found in her MORE THAN WORDS erotic romance series, and the latest instalment in the multi-authored 1001 DARK NIGHTS series. This is businessman Hayes Elliott, and twenty-two year old, college grad Echo Hope’s story line. MORE THAN POSSESS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from first person perspective (Hayes) with two final chapters from Echo MORE THAN POSSESS YOU follows the graduation celebration of Echo Hope in Maui Hawaii. As a gift, Hayes Elliott gave his best friend Echo Hope a trip to Hawaii, a business trip for Hayes but a trip wherein Echo hopes to lose her ‘V-card’ to their mutual friend Xavian Costa but Hayes sees red as he struggles with his best friend going elsewhere, a best friend he refuses to accept as anything more. Friends for eighteen years, Hayes and Echo, along with Xavian Costa have done everything together but Hayes never expected to watch from the sidelines as his bestie lost her virginity to someone else. As Hayes does his best to foil all of Echo’s plans, our heroine must comes to terms that the man that she loves, doesn’t love her in return.

Meanwhile, Xavian Costa has reached a crossroads in his life. A recent graduate himself, Xavian feels alone without the support of family, having lost his mother a few years before, and never knowing the identity of his father. When a lawyer reaches out to Xavian about a possible family connection, Xavian will discover that the family he wanted is more than he could have ever imagined.

The relationship between Echo and Hayes is a friends to lovers relationship, one in which Echo has been in love with her best friend for close to eight years. Hayes Elliott never saw Echo as a woman, as a sexual being but a few days in Hawaii proves that Echo has been hiding behind baggy clothes for far too long. The $ex scenes are intimate, enthusiastic and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters many of whom we have met in the previous instalments of the More Than Words series. We are introduced to Hayes’ Gramma Liddy, as well as Xavian’s large but well established extended family.

MORE THAN POSSESS YOU is a story of family, relationships, friendships and love. A story of conflict, acceptance, revelations and realizations. The fast paced premise is captivating and exciting; the romance is passionate and fated; the characters are energetic and animated.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
More than Want You
More Than Need You
More Than Love You
More Than Crave You
More than Tempt You
More than Pleasure You
More Than Dare You
More Than Protect You

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

I scowl. Echo almost sounds like… No. She can’t possibly speak from experience. Who the hell would she be in love with that I don’t know about?
Then I remember she’s “talking” with Xavian.
I freeze.
Anyone who called me a player would label Xavian Costa a man whore. She can’t have real feelings for him.
Can she?
If I confront Echo head-on about how stupid falling for Xavian is, she’ll bristle. So I try to be sneaky. “I haven’t talked to X much lately. What’s up with him?”
“Besides finals, nothing new. But he’s stoked that we’ll all be boarding the plane for Maui on Saturday. He was thrilled that, despite being an intern, he was included in the bonus trip for top performers.”
Xavian is killing it in the office. He’s got a natural gift for making money, so I’m not surprised. But she sounds almost proud of him, like a girlfriend.
“And thanks again for taking me along as your plus one. I’m so excited I bought two new bikinis!”
For Xavian to look at? The thought makes me frown even more. But I act casual.
“Of course. Hey…” I bump shoulders with her. “You’re my bestie. I had to give you a graduation trip worth remembering.”
“I can’t tell you how much I appreciate it. The plane ticket alone must have cost a fortune. But I promise, I won’t keep you awake at night snoring.” She winks.
“You don’t snore, shortcake.” I’ve been camping with her about a million times, so I know. But by now, she’s usually found half a dozen activities for us to appreciate the scenery and make memories—a nature reserve, a challenging hike, a sunrise picnic on the beach—something. But we’re six days away from the biggest vacation of our lives, and not a word. “Tell me what you have planned for paradise.”
“Sun and water!” She closes her eyes and takes in a deep breath, like she can already smell the ocean.
“I meant for us.”
Echo turns to me with a shrug. “I thought we’d chill. Besides, I wasn’t sure how much you’d have to work.”
“I only have two mixers all week. We’ll have tons of time for other stuff.”
“Oh. Good.”
But her voice suggests that isn’t good at all. What the hell is up? Does she have some surprise for me and doesn’t want me guessing, like Christmas before last?
“So we’ll think of some things,” I prod her. “Right?”
“Sure.”
Her easy reply should make me feel better. Instead, I’m wondering if she’s planning to enjoy paradise with someone else.
Like Xavian.
Fuck, I know I’ve been busy lately and spending a lot of my free time with Jayci—mostly because she’ll try anything in bed and could suck the brass off a doorknob—but the thought of Echo and me drifting apart fills me with something like panic.
“What do you say we have a pre-trip graduation party on Friday night? We don’t leave until two in the afternoon on Saturday, so—”
“I can’t.” Echo tears her gaze away. “I’ve got…something else.”
Like? Her vague refusal fills me with dread. “A date?”
“Not exactly.”
Shifting closer, I take her chin in my hand. “Then what? Talk to me. Tell me what’s bothering you.”
“Nothing. I just need to, um…take care of something before we go.”

Shayla Black is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than forty novels. For over fifteen years, she’s written contemporary, erotic, paranormal, and historical romances via traditional, independent, foreign, and audio publishers. Her books have sold well over a million copies and been published in a dozen languages.

Raised an only child, Shayla occupied herself with lots of daydreaming, much to the chagrin of her teachers. In college, she found her love for reading and realized that she could have a career publishing the stories spinning in her imagination. Though she graduated with a degree in Marketing/Advertising and embarked on a stint in corporate America to pay the bills, her heart has always been with her characters. She’s thrilled that she’s been living her dream as a full-time author for the past seven years.

Shayla currently lives in North Texas with her wonderfully supportive husband, her teenage daughter, and a very spoiled cat. In her “free” time, she enjoys reality TV, reading, and listening to an eclectic blend of music.

➣ Follow Shayla Black on Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/shayla-black

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Bond of Destiny (Demonica ) by Larissa Ione-Review Tour

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Bond of Destiny (Demonica / 1001 Dark Nights) by Larissa Ione-Review Tour

 

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 24, 2021

Sold into slavery mere hours after his birth to werewolf parents, Tracker spent decades in service to cruel underworlders. Then the fallen angel Harvester transferred his ownership to a human woman who gave him as much freedom as the unbreakable bond would allow. Still, thanks to his traumatic past, he’s afraid to trust, let alone feel love. But when an acquaintance shows up at his door, injured and in need of help, he finds himself longing for a connection. For someone to touch. For someone to care.

Stacey Orr has had it bad for Tracker since the day her best friend, Jillian, was forced to hold his unbreakable slave bond. At first, the fact that he’s a werewolf seemed weird to Stacey, but hey, her best friend was married to one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, so weird is definitely a matter of perspective. Stacey knows the depths of Tracker’s trauma, and she longs to help him even as he helps her, but breaking through his walls isn’t easy.

And it only gets harder when the only blood family he has, the pack that gave him away, lays claim to him… and everything he loves.

•••••••

REVIEW:  Bond of Destiny by Larissa Ione is the twentieth installment in the Demonica Series and can be read as a standalone. The Demonica series is one of Ione’s many paranormal series, Bond of Destiny is a standalone novella in that series. While I am a big supporter of reading a series in order to get the most out of it, this novella provides enough backstory that reading the previous books isn’t a must do.
Tracker is a werewolf, and has spent his whole life in the service of others, given to slavers just after he was born, he has spent all his time at the will of others. His Masters. Most of those Masters are too cruel to even mention, he has never been shown love or kindness. That changes with his new owners, Jillian and her husband, one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.

The story really starts to take off when Stacy comes into the picture. Stacy is Jillian’s best friend and a strong woman in her own right. When Tracker rescues Stacy from a winter storm and they end up snowed into together sparks fly and the goodness begins.

Throughout this entire story, I felt so bad for Tracker and the life he has had to live. You can tell how lonely they both are and how much they both want to connect to each other; they just don’t know how to go about it. Tracker is so awkward at times and Stacy is a bulldozer in getting what she wants. Since she has decided that what she wants is Tracker, she is going to stop at nothing. Just as Tracker starts to live his life, his so-called family comes waltzing their furry behinds back in the picture, except what they want isn’t something Tracker is willing to give them. Drama ensures *no spoilers* and Tracker along with the help of friends must figure out what to do.

What can I say? I’m a sucker for paranormal romance. I loved this! I thought the way Tracker slowly started coming out of his shell was so sweet. You can really start to see him open up and become his own person as the story progresses. Stacy was funny and a good match for Tracker, but her relationship with Jillian was a little odd sometimes. Nothing that would deter from the book, but just a little odd. I hope to see more from the Demonica series! Bond of Destiny was funny and bitter sweet. The sexy scenes are a perfect tie in for the character growth and add to the story rather than fill it in. I can’t wait to see what comes next!

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sarah

 

Impossible female.
Damn, Stacey was stubborn.
And sure, Tracker liked that. To a point. Her stubbornness made it damned hard to protect her. As a DART agent, he was sure she was capable, just as she’d said. But just as he’d said, she was injured, and until he found out what they were dealing with, she had no business being out here.
It was his duty. Period.
As far as her deception—although he hesitated to label it that—he wasn’t sure what to do. He didn’t truly believe that Jillian would be cruel in her anger. His reaction had more to do with his past experiences than his present.
And in the past, he could be tortured mercilessly for what had happened between he and Stacey. Now…now he was worried more about disappointing Jillian.
Jillian has basically freed you, but you keep putting the shackles back on.
Shackles? Stacey had no idea.
But it was something he’d have to deal with later. Right now, something was lurking in the forest.
He looked toward the heavens, measuring the darkness. The sky was clear and the moon was nearly full. Which meant a lot of light. Too much light. He’d be easily seen out in the open.
The trees and buildings threw silhouettes onto the fresh white snow, so he kept between drifts and in the shadows as best as he could and used his natural night vision to scan the forest. Pausing near the barn, he raised his head, seeking scents that might be out of place.
He caught a whiff of a deer somewhere nearby, but aside from that, nothing stood out. Still, the sense of a threat remained, like an oil slick on his skin.
He moved cautiously in the direction of the Harrowgate. The roads weren’t cleared yet, so anyone trying to get here would either have to use the gate, flash in, or hike for miles through deep snow and thick forest.
He really hoped no one had flashed in. Anyone capable of materializing into a location was powerful. Granted, anyone who could use a Harrowgate was a bigger threat than your average human, but the flashers were next-level dangerous. Fallen angel and hellhound-level dangerous.
As he approached the plowed path leading to the Harrowgate, the danger vibe intensified. Adrenaline spiked hot in his veins, bringing with it the high of the hunt. The only time he’d been happy in Sheoul was when there was a threat or when he was hunting something his masters wanted. The beast inside him craved the chase, and for a brief time, nothing else mattered. He could forget everything but the thrill of the hunt and the satisfaction of a good battle.
He’d given his all, and he’d earned a reputation among slave owners of being willing to face anything, do anything, go anywhere, because he was so brave.
His owners, who had bragged about his fierceness, were wrong. He hadn’t been brave. He just hadn’t cared whether he’d lived or died.
Now he cared.
More important, he had people he cared about.


 

Air Force veteran Larissa Ione traded in a career in meteorology to pursue her passion of writing. She has since published dozens of books, hit several bestseller lists, including the New York Times and USA Today, and has been nominated for a RITA award. She now spends her days in pajamas with her computer, strong coffee, and supernatural worlds. She believes in celebrating everything, and would never be caught without a bottle of Champagne chilling in the fridge…just in case. She currently lives in Wisconsin with her retired U.S. Coast Guard husband, her son, a rescue cat named Vegas, and her very own hellhounds, a King Shepherd named Hexe and a Belgian Malinois named Duvel.

Follow: Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Pinterest

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Slayed by Darkness by Alexandra Ivy-Review Tour

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Slayed by Darkness (Guardians of Eternity 17.5 / 1001 Dark Nights) by Alexandra Ivy-Review Tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 29, 2021

Only an idiot would try to kidnap Jayla. She’s a take-no-prisoner kind of vampire who rebelled against the previous King of Vampires, and now regularly battles with both human and demon enemies who resent the success of Dreamscape casino she manages in Hong Kong. So when she’s snatched off the streets, she doesn’t bother to struggle. Instead she starts plotting her slow, bloody revenge.

The last creature she expects when she arrives at her destination is Azrael, the mysterious mercenary vampire she killed a century ago.

Azreal has never forgotten Jayla, and not just because she tried to stab a stake through his heart. He’d never encountered a female who could match him in battle. Her raw courage was sexy as hell. And it didn’t hurt that she was drop-dead gorgeous. But, he didn’t abduct her because he desired her. Or at least, that wasn’t his main motivation. He needs her rare talent to stop time. An evil fey has stolen his sword. The weapon is magically bound to him, and unless he retrieves it, he’s doomed to a painful death.

**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you’ll enjoy each one as much as we do.**

•••••

REVIEW: SLAYED BY DARKNESS is instalment 17.5 in Alexandra Ivy’s adult GUARDIANS OF ETERNITY paranormal/fantasy romance series, and the latest instalment in the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights series. This is vampires Azreal and Jayla’s story line. SLAYED BY DARKNESS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary

Told from several third person perspectives SLAYED BY DARKNESS focuses on the abduction and attempted assassination of our heroine Jayla. Jayla works as the manager for Dreamscape Casino in Hong Kong but a rival casino manager has demanded some of Jayla’s time. On her way, Jayla finds herself the victim of a potential kidnapping, only to come face to face with the vampire she thought she over seven hundred years earlier. Enter former Viking turned vampire Azreal. As Azreal presents his case for ‘kidnapping’ our heroine, Dreamscapes owner Chiron calls upon our intrepid gargoyle Levet, to help locate his missing manager. What ensues is the building relationship between Azreal and Jayla, and the potential fall-out as something more sinister is going on behind the scenes.

Azreal knew immediately the assassin sent to take him down is his fated mate but our hero was cursed by the fey hundreds of years earlier, and his soul has been trapped inside a magical sword all this time but Azreal woke up to discover the sword had been stolen, and his life was slowly draining with each passing day. Desperate to retrieve the sword, Azreal knows of only one being who is able to control time, and that being is the woman that calls to his heart.

SLAYED BY DARKNESS is a fast paced, novella length story of second chances, of a sorts. Jayla believed she had killed a man for no other reason that having been ordered to do so, and with his return, Jayla got a second chance to make things right.Having been cursed by the Fey, Azreal knew he would probably live a long and lonely life but the return of Jayla meant Azreal had a second chance at his own happily ever after, if only they could retrieve the sword that held his soul. The $ex scenes are limited by passionate.

The secondary and supporting characters included Jayla’s boss Chiron, and her assistant Gideon; rival casino owner Emile; gargoyle Levet and his aunt Bertha.

SLAYED BY DARKNESS is entertaining and engaging; the characters are dynamic-always fun to read about Levet ; the building relationship between Azreal and Jayla focuses on the search for the sword, and the acceptance of one another as each other’s mate.

Previous Reviews (this a list of books we have reviewed at The Reading Cafe. We have read most if not all of the books in the series but have not posted a review !)

When Darkness Comes
Embrace the Darkness
Darkness Everlasting
Darkness Revealed
Darkness Unleashed
Beyond the Darkness
Devoured by Darkness
Taken by Darkness
Darkness Eternal
Bound by Darkness
Where Darkness Lives
Fear The Darkness
Darkness Avenged
Darkness Eternal
Hunt the Darkness
A Very Levet Christmas
When Darkness Ends
Darkness Returns
Beware the Darkness
Conquer the Darkness
Sacrifice of Darkness
Shades of Darkness
Darkness Betrayed

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

“If you intend to kill me, I wish you’d get on with it before I die of boredom.”
Azrael smiled with rueful humor. “You haven’t lost your arrogance, kiska.”
She froze at the sound of his voice. Or maybe it was his Russian endearment. She’d reminded him of a hissing cat the first time he’d seen her. Sleek and elegant and utterly lethal. Her rich lotus scent swirling in the air. “Who are you?”
Azrael leaned toward her. “First, I intend to relieve you of any weapons you have hidden beneath that lovely gown.”
She hissed in outrage. “Touch me, and I’ll kill—”
“Not this time,” he interrupted, sweeping his hands down the length of her torso.
It took an effort, but he kept his touch light, refusing to acknowledge the jolts of pleasure racing through him. She was bound and momentarily helpless. He might be a vampire, but he wasn’t a monster. Not anymore.
He reached the slender length of her legs when he at last found a sheath tied around her upper thigh. Carefully, he pulled out the slender dagger with its silver blade and tossed it onto a chair across the narrow space. Next, he bent to slide off her shoes, lifting the pointed heels to his nose. Poison. Just as he’d suspected.
“Impressive,” he murmured, flipping the shoes to join the dagger. “Now, this.” Grabbing the thick hood, he slowly pulled it off her head.
Jayla blinked, a visible tremor racing through her body as she allowed her gaze to skim over his face before lowering to the white cashmere sweater stretched across his chest and then down to his dark slacks.
At last, she slowly shook her head as if coming out of a dream. Or a nightmare.
“No,” she rasped. “This is a trick.”
“I’m very real,” he assured her, leaning forward. She was clearly in shock, but she hadn’t panicked. And she hadn’t tried to attack. He was willing to take a risk. With quick movements, he unlocked the shackles and let them drop to the floor. Then, he offered her a sensuous smile. “Do you want to touch and prove for yourself?”

Like most writers, I was born with an avid love for reading. Growing up in a small town in the Midwest, I can’t remember a time when I didn’t have a book in my hand or wasn’t dreaming up wild stories in my head. And when I stepped into my local library for the first time I thought it was paradise. There were so many books on the shelves I didn’t know where to start!

Still, I didn’t plan to grow up and become a writer. I was much more interested in a glorious career as an actress on Broadway.

I followed my dream by acquiring a degree in theatre and performing for several years in summer-stock productions, but after I married my college sweetheart I decided to put the career on hold while we started a family. After the arrival of my two sons, Chance and Alex, I found myself seeking a new creative outlet and decided to turn my occasional scribblings into a genuine effort to get published.

I’d like to say that I was an overnight success, but the truth is that it took years before I finally got ‘the call’. The rejections were painful, but now I’m relieved. All those manuscripts that I thought were the next Great American Novel are now exactly where they belong…gathering dust under my bed.

They did, however, help me learn my craft, and just as importantly, they gave me the opportunity to enjoy writing in a wide variety of genres as I searched for my voice. Which no doubt explains why I started writing traditional regencies under the name Debbie Raleigh and then moved to steamy historicals under the name Deborah Raleigh before transforming into a contemporary paranormal writer as Alexandra Ivy. Now my career spans everything from erotica to romantic suspense.

When I’m not writing I love to travel, it doesn’t matter where I’m going as long as it doesn’t include any cooking or cleaning. I also love to spend time with my family who continue to be my greatest source of inspiration. And since some things never change…when I have a few minutes, you can still find me with a book in my hand!

Connect with Alexandra:

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Treasured (Masters and Mercenaries 22.5)by Lexi Blake-Review tour

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Treasured (Masters and Mercenaries 22.5/ 1001 Dark Nights) by Lexi Blake-Review & Excerpt tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 22, 201

David Hawthorne has a great life. His job as a professor at a prestigious Dallas college is everything he hoped for. Now that his brother is back from the Navy, life seems to be settling down. All he needs to do is finish the book he’s working on and his tenure will be assured. When he gets invited to interview a reclusive expert, he knows he’s gotten lucky. But being the stepson of Sean Taggart comes with its drawbacks, including an overprotective mom who sends a security detail to keep him safe. He doesn’t need a bodyguard, but when Tessa Santiago shows up on his doorstep, the idea of her giving him close cover doesn’t seem so bad.

Tessa has always excelled at most anything she tried, except romance. The whole relationship thing just didn’t work out for her. She’s not looking for love, and she’s certainly not looking for it with an academic who happens to be connected to her boss’s family. The last thing she wants is to escort an overly pampered pretentious man-child around South America to ensure he doesn’t get into trouble. Still, there’s something about David that calls to her. In addition to watching his back, she will have to avoid falling into the trap of soulful eyes and a deep voice that gets her heart racing.

But when the seemingly simple mission turns into a treacherous race for a hidden artifact, David and Tess know this assignment could cost them far more than their jobs. If they can overcome the odds, the lost treasure might not be their most valuable reward.

**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you’ll enjoy each one as much as we do.**

••••••

REVIEW:TREASURED is the 22.5 instalment in Lexi Blake’s contemporary, adult MASTERS AND MERCENARIES erotic, romantic suspense series, and the latest instalment in the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights. This is university professor David Hawthorne, and bodyguard/security specialist Tessa Santiago’s story line. TREASURED can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. David Hawthorne is the step-son of Sean Taggart.

Told from third person perspective TREASURED follows the building relationship between professor David Hawthorne, and security specialist Tessa Santiago. Tessa Santiago had been invited to her ex-fiancé’s sister’s anniversary celebration but found herself sitting in the bar with a handsome stranger. David Hawthorne stopped by for a drink at the hotel where his mother was head chef but never expected to meet the woman with whom he would fall in love. A lingering kiss lead to an exchange of numbers only for David to realize he had been ghosted by the stranger at the bar. Fast forward a few weeks wherein David, about to embark on a South American research trip discovers his extended family aka the Taggarts, has secured his protection in the guise of security specialist and McKay -Taggart employee Tessa Santiago, the woman who has starred in his fantasies and dreams. Believing Tessa wants nothing to do with our story line hero, David opts to go it alone only to be told there was a rumor of trouble on the horizon. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Tessa and David, and the potential fall-out as the rumored threats come to fruition as our couple find themselves captives of a man man in hostile territory.

Tessa Santiago thought she had found the one only to discover that David Hawthorne was related to her current employer. Having walked away from a relationship with a man whose family was rich and well connected, Tessa knew she would never be part of that wealthy lifestyle, including a possible future with our story line hero but threats to David’s life found Tessa facing the wrong end of a gun, and it would take some help from an unlikely source to rescue the man with whom she would fall in love. David Hawthorne trip to South America was to research the life and death of a South American billionaire who was ahead of the world when it came to environmental causes. David was well aware of the rumors regarding a buried treasure on the island jungle, a treasure that many people were desperate to find and recover.

The relationship between David and Tessa is a second chances, of a sorts. Tessa and David met at a bar but David never revealed his family connections, and Tessa believed she was in no position to pursue a relationship with our story line hero. David took it personally when Tessa ghosted after their night at the bar, but our heroine’s reaction and refusal to take on her latest assignment meant David was willing to go it alone, even if he had to face the danger, by himself.

Meanwhile, David is a Dom, and recognizes the submissive in Tessa Santiago.Offering a one-time only night together, Tessa quickly discovers there is more to David than the mild-manner professor of history. Shortly after their arrival, David and Tessa take their relationship to the next level only to be literally caught with their pants down. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

TREASURED is a story of family, friendships, betrayal and greed. The premise is intriguing, engaging and entertaining; the romance is seductive and provocative; the characters are energetic, animated and spirited.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

What the hell was she doing?
Tessa glanced down at her watch. She was standing in front of her building ten minutes early, and there was a big part of her that wanted him to be late. Really late. Annoyingly late.
There had to be something about the man that wasn’t perfect beyond his connection to her employer.
She’d come down when she realized if she stayed inside one minute more she was going to decide to change again. Because she’d been halfway to convincing herself that she could do a fine job as a bodyguard in that curve-hugging dress that gave her so much confidence. Lots of bodyguards wore four-inch heels and a push-up bra. Yeah, sure they did.
Coming down here had saved her so much discomfort because in her line of business, slacks, a sensible shirt and shoes, and a blazer were the only way to go. The blazer hid her shoulder holster in a way that off-the-shoulder sex dress never would. And she didn’t care that Hollywood assassins could stuff any number of weapons between their thighs. Hers did not work that way.
It’s not a big deal.
The words David had said haunted her. What did that mean? It’s not a big deal. It had felt like a big deal. Not texting that smart hottie back had been a big fucking deal to her. She’d agonized over it, and he’d just kind of let it wash over him. He’d taken his shot and moved on. She had thought of nothing but him for weeks.
Or he was saving face by playing it cool and she was being ridiculous. The man was making this easy on her and she was inwardly complaining that he wasn’t making it harder. It was perverse, but then she had deeply conflicted feelings about David.
Feelings she could maybe work out over the course of this week. She could get to know him and then she would see he wasn’t as perfect as he seemed to be. Most men showed their true colors when a woman spent too much time with them. He wouldn’t be as patient as he seemed. His charm would wear off when she took charge and he got annoyed.
Yes, this could be exactly what she needed.
Especially if he was late.

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.

FACEBOOK / TWITTER / WEBSITE / AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE

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