Tag Archives: adult contemporary

Under Control (Dark Mafia Romance 4) by BB Hamel-review

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Under Control (Dark Mafia Romance 4) by BB Hamel-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 30, 2024

I showed up at the wrong house wearing nothing but a fuzzy robe.
And I ended up stripping in front of a stranger.

I agreed to pose nude for a talented artist friend of mine since I could really use the extra money, but it went all wrong.

Now the most gorgeous man I’ve ever seen is staring right at me like he’s about to claim a prize.

Turns out, this handsome stranger is the dangerous head of a Russian Bratva, and his arranged fiancee ran out on him at the last minute.

And I’m apparently good enough to take her place.

Valentin Zeitsev is brutally dangerous and horribly scarred, and I shouldn’t let a little accidental nudity lead directly into marriage.

But my family’s deep in debt and harboring some dark secrets, and I need Valentin’s help if I’m going to get through this nightmare.

Only when I say I do, what else is he going to take from me?

••••

REVIEW:UNDER CONTROL by BB Hamel is a stand alone, contemporary, adult, dark, Mafia romance focusing on Bratva Pakhan Valentin Zeitsev, and bar tender Karine Vardanyan.

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

Told from dual first person perspectives (Valentin and Karine) UNDER CONTROL focuses on the building but tempestuous relationship between Bratva Pakhan Valentin Zeitsev, and bar tender Karine Vardanyan. Desperate for money to pay her late father’s medical bills, Karine Vardanyan offers to pose nude for an artist friend but mistakenly arrives at Valentin Zeitsev’s house, the Pakhan of the Russian Bratva. Valentin, needing a wife, sees an opportunity, and stalks our heroine until she says yes but Valentin Zeitsev has a secret, a secret that could destroy our story line heroine. As their relationship begins to develop, the past returns to finish a job that started years ago.

The world building follows several interconnected paths, including the encroaching war between the Russian Bratva and the Armenian Brotherhood. Years earlier the Brotherhood took at the people at the top, and Valentin is determined to get his revenge for the losses in his life.

The relationship between Valentin and Karine begins acrimoniously but Karine is desperate and Valentin sees an opportunity.

There is a large ensemble cast of powerful and questionable secondary and supporting characters: Housekeeper Nikkita; Karine’s mother Miriam; Aram Sarkissian, and his son Arsen; as well as several Bratva members, soldiers and Valentin’s security detail.

UNDER CONTROL is a story of power and control, secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, dysfunctional family values, acceptance and love. The fast paced, character driven premise is twisted, dramatic, dark and engaging; the romance is seductive and fated; the characters are desperate, determined and strong.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Holding Out for a Holiday Hero by Cynthia Eden-review

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Holding Out for a Holiday Hero by Cynthia Eden-review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 26, 2024

A holiday romance with a dash of romantic suspense and a former military hero who is so not feeling the festive spirit…

Bah humbug. Bounty hunter Jake Hale hates Christmas. He doesn’t do twinkling lights, festive packages, and you definitely won’t ever catch him singing Christmas carols. What he will do? Track down the worst of the scum out there. The former special ops soldier makes merry by tossing the naughty into prison cells and getting a grand pay day. Ho, ho, ho.

Then a ghost from Christmas past walks through his door.

True Blakely is always at the top of the nice list. Beautiful, sweet, with an innocence that—yep, he might have been tempted to destroy once or twice—she’s there to hire him. There have been a string of dangerous accidents in her life, and True fears that someone is trying to kill her. Not at all the sort of case that Jake would usually take—he hunts down the criminals after they jump bail, not before they’ve even been arrested. But one look into True’s bedroom eyes, and he can’t refuse. Maybe he still is a bit too tempted by the girl who got away…and surely one nice act won’t kill him? For her, he can play the hero.

He’ll close the case and be home in time for Christmas dinner.

Except, on the first morning of his investigation, he finds a dead body. One waiting underneath True’s glittering Christmas tree. The attacks are real, and it’s clear that someone is gunning for True. But Jake is on the job now, and no one is going to hurt her. His protective instincts are in overdrive…and so is the desperate desire that he’s always felt for True. This time, he’s done fighting that desire. He’ll finally show True just how fantastic it can be when you aren’t nice. Welcome to his naughty list.

•••

REVIEW:HOLDING OUT FOR A HOLIDAY HERO by Cynthia Eden is a stand alone, contemporary, adult, romantic suspense story line focusing on former special ops soldier turned bounty hunter Jake Hale, and museum curator True Blakely.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (True and Jake) HOLDING OUT FOR A HOLIDAY HERO focuses on the protection of our story line heroine. Approximately one year earlier, museum curator True Blakely returned to her home town in the wake of her divorce. Fast forward to present day True believes she has a stalker, and local law enforcement refuse to investigate in the wake of no solid evidence and a perception of coincidence. With no other choice, True contacts a former high school acquaintance, a man who knows how to track people down. Enter bounty hunter Jake Hale, the man with whom True will fall in love. Jake struggles with his reaction to the woman in question, the woman who controls all his fantasies and dreams but when they find a dead body under True’s Christmas tree, all bets are off, when Jake becomes True’s guardian, protector and happily ever after. Jake doesn’t believe himself a hero but he is the only line of defense between True, and the person taking aim at our story line heroine.

The world building focuses on the protection of True Blakely, and the search for a killer. Strange incidents , all placing True in dangerous situations, forces Jake to claim our heroine as his own but with no potential suspects , everyone in True’s radar becomes a suspect until the killer is caught. Jake has never considerer himself a hero but as he story line progresses, more than one person is witness to his true acts of heroism.

The relationship between True and Jake is an opposites attract. Jake dislikes the Christmas holidays, a Grinch by observation, and True is all about the decorating and celebration. Unable to return home, Jake demands True remain by his side, including staying at his place for the foreseeable future. A lifelong confession by Jake finds our heroine falling for the man who has stolen her heart. 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 several co-workers and security at the local museum, as well as over extended and over worked Detective Harris Avery, True’s ex-husband Richard, and Jake’s intrepid and eager professional assistant Perry Cornwell.

HOLDING OUT FOR A HOLIDAY HERO is a story of betrayal and vengeance, friendships and relationships, acceptance and love. The premise is intriguing, dramatic and captivating; the romance is passionate and seductive; the characters are desperate, charismatic and determined.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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A Legend in the Baking by Jamie Wesley -review & giveaway

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A Legend in the Baking (Sugar Blitz 2) by Jamie Wesley -review, excerpt & giveaway

 

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 19, 2024

August Hodges was supposed to be the silent partner in Sugar Blitz Cupcakes. Emphasis on silent. That is until his impromptu feminist rant about how women bakers are the backbone of the industry and baking cupcakes isn’t a threat to masculinity goes viral, making him the hottest bachelor in town. With a new location in the works, August and his partners decide to capitalize on this perfect opportunity to help cement their place in the community. But the hiring of his best friend’s younger sister, the woman who has haunted some of his best dreams for years, was as much of a shock as his new-found fame.

Social media manager Sloane Dell fell hard for her brother’s best friend the moment she met him more than a decade ago, but that teenage infatuation cost her dearly. Still, she accepts her brother’s request to revamp the bakery’s social media presence to take advantage of August’s newfound popularity, knowing it’s the big break her fledgling career needs. She’ll just ignore the fact that August is still August, i.e. sexier and sweeter than any man has a right to be. And that he drives her crazy with his resistance to all her ideas.

They vow to leave the past in the past. But when an explosive make-out session makes it clear their attraction burns hotter than ever, Sloane and August are forced to reconsider what it means to take a risk and chase your dreams.

As they’re both about to find out, all’s fair in love and cupcakes.

•••••

REVIEW:A LEGEND IN THE BAKING is the second instalment in Jamie Wesley’s contemporary, adult SUGAR BLITZ erotic, romance series focusing on professional football players and business owners Donovan, August and Nicholas. This is San Diego Knights fullback, divorcé and co-owner of Sugar Blitz Cupcakes August Hodges, and twenty-nine year old, social media manager Sloane Dell’s story line. A LEGEND IN THE BAKING can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

Told from omniscient dual third person perspectives (Sloane and August) focusing on two timelines, A LEGEND IN THE BAKING follows the building relationship between our story line couple. After a rant defending femininity and masculinity goes viral, August Hodges finds himself at the mercy of the internet but when Donovan Dell’s sister is hired to help control the social media content, August Hodges finds himself facing the woman who stirs all of his urges, a woman whose heart he destroyed years ago. Enter twenty-nine year old Sloane Dell, his best friend and teammate’s younger sister. As Sloane attempts to navigate and control the online media explosion surrounding August Hodges, our couple find themselves facing another type of vitriol when Sugar Blitz Cupcakes sets about to open a second location.

The world building focuses on the past and the breakdown of a dysfunctional family unit: the incident that pushed Sloane out of August’s life, ; the fall-out and of a marriage, and a career going nowhere fast. As August’s defense of femininity goes viral, so too does his popularity with the women, and the explosion of interest in Sugar Blitz Cupcakes.

The relationship between Sloane and August is a best friend’s younger sister, unrequited love. Sloane has been in love with her brother’s best friend August for as long as she can remember but Sloane was always treated as the little sister but the heart wanted something more, and August was about to destroy any hopes for a happily ever after. Working with August brings Sloane up close and personal with the fame and fortune of a professional football player, the fame of being pulled in several directions. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate and intense.

The secondary and supporting characters are energetic and entertaining including the return of Sloane’s brother Donovan Dell, and his girlfriend Jada Townsend-Matthews, and football player and Sugar Blitz co-owner Nicholas; August’s ex wife Melinda DeJesus; August’s father Dale Hodges; football fans and angry neighbors.

A LEGEND IN THE BAKING is a story of family and friendships, relationships and love. The premise is edgy and entertaining; the characters are animated and determined; the romance is spicy and spirited.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

From A Legend in the Baking by Jamie Wesley. Copyright © 2024 by the author and reprinted by permission of St. Martin’s Publishing Group.
 

 

 

This is it. Your time is now.
Sloane Dell beamed at Candace, her boss and the director of marketing at Organic Chemistry, who was seated across the glass desk from her. Sloane had put in the hours, the less-than-desirable assignments (which sometimes included literally scooping up dog poop) as a social media assistant at the organic pet food company for the last three years. But it was all for a good cause. The promotion to social media manager was about to be hers. Finally.
Candace’s head was bent down as she reviewed Sloane’s work file, no doubt cataloging all the metaphorical gold stars Sloane had received from colleagues over the years.
Sloane is the best! Sloane is such a team player! Sloane comes up with the best, most innovative ideas! We couldn’t survive without her!
Okay, maybe that last one wouldn’t be in there, even though it was true. She wasn’t cocky, but she loved her job and was good at it.
Sloane’s smile spread as Candace lifted her head, her eyes narrowing slightly. Her bright pink lipstick had started to bleed in the right corner.
Concentrate, Sloane! Now’s not the time.
Candace cleared her throat and adjusted the black frames that always seemed to be slipping down her nose. “Thanks for coming to see me, Sloane. I wanted to let you know we enjoy having you here at Organic Chemistry.”
Here it came. The big promotion. Sloane’s chest swelled with hope and excitement. She was already starting to think of all the ideas she wanted to implement to further the company’s goals, the student loan payments she could increase . . .
“. . . believe you still need more experience before you can move up to the manager position.”
“Tha—” The rest of that word petered out as Candace’s words sank through Sloane’s body like a lead stone, anchoring her to the stiff leather chair.
What the fuck?
Only the self-control she’d learned to assert over herself even through the most trying of times stopped her from blurting out that way-too-real question. Instead, she went with the much more sedate, more “professional” “Excuse me? Could you repeat that, please?”
Candace sighed and pushed up her glasses again. “Yes, it’s true. We agonized over this decision, but don’t feel putting you in a position you’re not quite ready for is the right move. It can only hurt your career.”
Such bullshit. Over the past two years, she’d put in countless hours for this company, come up with several campaigns that went viral, tripling their social media followers and directly correlating to an increase in sales, only for her immediate supervisor, the assistant director, Daniel, to take the credit. She’d let him get away with it because Sloane was a team player. And now her generosity had officially blown up in her face.
What a bunch of horseshit. Cow shit. Bear shit. Whatever excretions from whatever animal you could think of.
But she had to play the game.
After all, this was corporate America, where fakeness ruled and Black women were often punished for having the unmitigated gall to be both Black and female, so she was going to smile and play the game with the sunshiney-est smile possible. It was the only way to reach her ultimate goal of receiving the promotion she most definitely deserved. “I appreciate you looking out for me.”
Candace pressed a hand to her chest, the pink shade of her polish perfectly matching her lipstick, because appearances were always important. Her beady little green eyes gave off earnest vibes. “Thank you so much for understanding that this was such a tough decision for us. We agonized, but truly think this is the best for you.”
“I quit.”
Sloane froze. Wait. Who said that? The voice sounded familiar. Wait. She, Sloane Renee Dell, had said that. Sloane’s chest filled, not with panic, as she’d initially assumed, but a sense of rightness. Damn right she quit.
Candace’s mouth had fallen open in pure shock, her eyes bugging out behind her very tasteful, yet very expensive frames.
Sloane rose as a sense of purpose surged throughout her entire body. “I deserved that promotion. You know it. I know it. Everyone in this office knows it, and I’m not going to let you gaslight me into thinking it’s my fault you didn’t offer it to me. Consider this my resignation letter. I won’t need two weeks.”
Sloane whirled and strode confidently out of the office. With laser focus, she headed to her little cube—because offices were reserved for managers and directors and the like and not little pesky assistants who apparently didn’t deserve promotions. She quickly collected the few personal items she kept on her desk—the framed photo of her mom and siblings, her lucky shamrock plushy—and headed for the elevator.
Bethany, who worked in accounting, blinked when she saw Sloane. “Where are you going, Sloane?”
“I quit!”
Perhaps she’d said that a little too loudly, because heads began popping over the top of cubicle walls like the creatures in the Whac-A-Mole arcade game. She regally nodded at them all and gave them her best Duchess Meghan wave as she glided down the hall.
Her best friend, Felicia, the admin assistant, gave her a questioning look as she passed the front desk. Sloane shook her head but didn’t stop. Later. She would explain later. If she stopped now, she’d end up screaming at the top of her lungs about the injustice of it all and wind up being escorted off the property by building security.
Reality didn’t hit her until she was behind the wheel of her Mazda. Her vision went hazy for a second as she sucked in unsteady breaths.
Oh, God. What had she done? She had bills to pay. Student loans to whittle away at. She couldn’t quit a good job without another one lined up. But she had. She pressed a shaky hand to her abdomen. That mocha latte she’d treated herself to as a midday snack and pre-promotion celebration was now curdling in her stomach with the fury of sour milk.
But if the powers-that-be didn’t have her back, did she really want to work there?
No. She. Did. Not.From A Legend in the Baking by Jamie Wesley. Copyright © 2024 by the author and reprinted by permission of St. Martin’s Publishing Group.


 

St. Martin’s Press is graciously offering a paper copy of A LEGEND IN THE BAKING by Jamie Wesley to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

 

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In Too Deep (RBMC: Toronto 1) by JA Collard-review tour

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💀💚 In Too Deep (RBMC: Toronto 1) by JA Collard-review tour 💀💚

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 12, 2024

Two words.
Two words that I have drilled inside of me and never forgotten.

Words I swore to my best friend, the one who saved my life by taking a bullet for me.

Two words he asked of me before he closed his eyes and took his last breath.
Promise me.

An oath that I would look after his wife Theresa and son Harry.

Theresa is part of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) who lives and breathes her job. A job she excels. So, when she asks me for a favor, I know I can’t deny her.

Going undercover in one of the country’s most notorious motorcycle clubs, I’m drawn to the men and their lifestyle. It’s a brotherhood, something I miss from when I served in the Military.

Instead of helping Theresa bring them down, I’m fighting to prove their innocence.

Her name is Belle, and she’s the daughter of the president of the Royal Bastards MC. She’s spoiled, hot-headed, and sexy as hell, and I’m falling for her—something I never planned.

So how do I choose between a woman to whom I owe my life? Or the woman who has my heart?

All I know is that I’m in too deep and need to decide before my secret is exposed.

•••••

REVIEW:IN TOO DEEP is the first instalment in JA Collard’s contemporary, adult RBMC: TORONTO dark, MC romance set in the multi-authored RBMC world. This is Canadian soldier Cole Brennan aka Seth Hawkins, and RBMC princess Belle’s story line.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers. This book is a Novella and part 1 of a duet. Book 2 will be released in September 2025 as part of the RBMC 7th run.

Told from dual first person perspectives ( Cole/Seth and Belle) IN TOO DEEP follows the introduction of Seth Hawkins to the RBMC: Toronto. Cole Brennan has returned from assignment in Afghanistan where his team was ambushed, leaving Keith, his best friend dead. Upon his return home, Keith’s widow, RCMP Officer Theresa approaches Cole about going undercover in an effort to infiltrate the RBMC: Toronto Chapter, an undercover assignment as Seth Hawkins. All goes according to plan until the unthinkable happens, just ours into his introductory operation.

The world building follows Cole as he embarks on a new path as Seth Hawkins, mechanic to the RBMC: Toronto, but a man whose mission it is to uncover the truth. As Seth, Cole never expected to get up close and personal with the club president’s daughter Belle, a position that has placed him in the direct line of fire.

The relationship between Belle and Seth is just beginning but Seth has been warned to keep away, in the face of his own demise. There are no $ex scenes, just a few stolen kisses in the dark.

We are introduced to Keith’s widow and RCMP officer Theresa, her son Harry; RCMP agents Ben and Tyler aka Jack, as well as several members of the RBMC Toronto including prez Vinney, VP Mikki, and Shooter.

IN TOO DEEP is a novella length story of secrets, lies and betrayal, power and control, mayhem and madness. The premise is fast paced,intriguing and entertaining, introducing some of the players and history of the RBMC: Toronto. IN TOO DEEP ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Author J.A. Collard: www.facebook.com/j.a.collard.2024

Subscribe to my Newsletter: www.jacollard.com

Website/Series Links: https://www.royalbastardsmc.com/

Follow the Royal Bastards MC here: https://www.facebook.com/royalbastardsmcbooks/

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The Truths That Deceive by Kristen Luciani-review tour

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

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 14, 2024

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

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

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

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

Prison…or death.

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

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

••••••

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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

Mafia romance is her passion…and her poison.

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

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

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

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 23, 2024

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

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

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

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

••••••

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

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

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

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

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

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

Copy supplied for review

__________

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 6, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

•••••••

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

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

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

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

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

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

Copy supplied for review

Reviews by Sandy

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MONTANA HEAT (Resting Warrior Ranch 9) by Josie Jade-review

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MONTANA HEAT (Resting Warrior Ranch 9) by Josie Jade- review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 10, 2024

Growing up with addict parents and extreme neglect, Jensen Chambers learned early to only depend on himself.

A family was something he’d never thought he’d have, but the people at the Resting Warrior Ranch have become exactly that. Yeah, Garnet Bend is about as small as towns come, but big cities never did him any favors anyway.

So when Kenzie Hurst—with her manicured nails and stilettos that obviously don’t belong in Montana—shows up with trouble on her high heels, Jensen isn’t going to just sit by.

This is family. This is his town.

He’ll be dåmned if he’ll let outside danger destroy the peace they’ve worked so hard to build.

But when the mysterious beauty needs protection only Jensen can provide, he can’t turn her away. She may wear Prada, but her sweet smile and engaging laugh is drawing him in.

Making him want to keep her around permanently. High heels and all.

Someone wants Kenzie dead, but Jensen—and the Resting Warrior Ranch team—are about to show her that around here, they look out for their own.

And that includes her.

••••

REVIEW: MONTANA HEAT is the ninth instalment in Josie Jade’s contemporary, adult, RESTING WARRIOR RANCH romantic suspense series originally co-authored by Josie Jade and Janie Crouch. This is Denver Colorado realtor MacKenzie ‘Kenzie’ Hurst, and auto mechanic Jensen Chamber’s story line.

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

Told from dual first person perspectives (Jensen and Kenzie) MONTANA HEAT follows Kenzie Hurst’s arrival in Garnet Bend, Montana. Kenzie Hurst has a stalker, and the Denver Police suggest our heroine go into hiding, recommending Garnet Bend, Montana, where she will fall under the protection of the Resting Warrior Ranch members but all is not well upon Kenzie’s arrival in Garnet Bend, someone has tampered with her car, and the possibility of her stalker has followed her from home. Meeting and falling for mechanic Jensen Chambers was something Kenzie never thought possible having experienced heart break at the hands of a former lover. When the attacks against Kenzie become more dangerous and dark, Jensen and the men at the WRR find themselves on the hunt for Kenzie’s stalker.

The world building follows several paths including a look back at both Jensen and Kenzie’s pasts: Jensen’s life as the child of addicted parents; and Kenzie’s life in the face of an abusive ex.

The relationship between Kenzie and Jensen begins when Kenzie’s car breaks down upon her arrival in Garnet Bend. Jensen is determined to protect Kenzie from the darkness that follows but Kenzie finds herself facing the unknown, and a past that refuses to let go. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate.

We are introduced to Kenzie’s ormer boyfriend Alan Ard: Jada Moyer Banks; and the return of Jensen’s friend Lucas Everett (Montana Sanctuary) ; deputy Lachlan Callaway; police chief Charlie Garcia; and several characters from the Resting Warrior Ranch series.

MONTANA HEAT is a story of secrets and lies; power and control; betrayal and vengeance; obsession and madness; acceptance and love. The premise is intriguing, thrilling and dramatic; the romance is seductive; the characters are determined and dynamic.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Montana Sanctuary
Montana Danger
Montana Desire
Montana Mystery
Montana Storm
Montana Freedom
Montana Silence
Montana Rain

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Bargain with the Irish Devil by Fiona Murphy-review tour

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💚Bargain with the Irish Devil by Fiona Murphy-review tour💚

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 26, 2024

The moment I laid eyes on the curvy woman, I wanted her something awful. I’m not a good man and never pretend to be. I make no promises and am always honest that it’s pleasure I’m looking for and nothing more—until her. I lie to her and myself.

There was a plan when she was brought to me. Only for every part of it to change. I needed answers only she could give me. She hesitated but accepted the bargain I offered her. I tell her I’ll let her go. I promise if she tells me no, I’ll accept it. But I can’t, not when she’s lying to me and herself.

I should let her go. She is a civilian who doesn’t belong in my world and doesn’t want to be here. Except I am a devil, and I take what I want. I’ll never let her go. Now, I just have to make her want to stay.

Bargain with the Devil is an Irish mafia dark romance featuring a plus-size woman. It includes rough scenes and a pregnancy through manipulation. If such things offend you, please do not buy.

••••

REVIEW:BARGAIN WITH THE IRISH DEVIL by Fiona Murphy, is a contemporary, adult, Mafia romance stand alone story set in the author’s Sabatini worlds. This is head of the Chicago Irish mob Declan Kelly, and twenty-seven year old, accountant Miranda Beckett’s story line. BARGAIN WITH THE IRISH DEVIL can be read as a stand alone, you do not have to read the previous instalments. Some of the characters cross over for cohesion.

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

Told from dual first person perspectives (Declan and Miranda) BARGAIN WITH THE IRISH DEVIL follows in the wake of the kidnapping of our story line heroine. Declan Kelly will be using Miranda Beckett as payment for a debt but her accounting skills are what he needs the most. Believing she will be free of Declan within a matter of days, our heroine finds herself falling for her jailer, a man who is falling just as fast. As Miranda begins a deep dive into Declan Kelly’s financials,betrayal from within the organization forces Declan to take charge, invoking the ire of the people at the top.

The world building follows several pathways including Declan’s need to clean house in the face of betrayal and issues of trust. From the outset, Declan finds himself falling for our story line heroine, a plus-size woman that checks all of the boxes Declan needs and wants for his own happily ever after.

The relationship between Declan and Miranda begins as payment for a debt. Miranda becomes a prisoner in a gilded cage, a prisoner who will quickly fall for her jailer in the wake of Declan’s dogged determination and seduction. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative.

The secondary and supporting characters include the return of Tony and Dominic Sabatini, and Milos Levin, as well as the introduction of Miranda’s brother Peter Beckett; Declan’s housekeeper Aoife; Declan’s best friend Ryan, and right hand man Colm.

BARGAIN WITH THE IRISH DEVIL is a story of betrayal and vengeance, secrets and lies, obsession, power and control, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is intriguing, captivating and dramatic; the romance is seductive and passionate ;the characters are desperate, determined and energetic.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Due to commitment issues I have lived in many different cities and my favorite is Chicago but I have managed to settle into Austin and perhaps my commitment issues are behind me.

I have enjoyed reading from a very young age and it wasn’t long before the children books bored me and I read the books my mother enjoyed Stephen King and Dean Koontz and I didn’t sleep without the light on until I was about ten.

I came across my first Harlequin by accident and it was love at first read, no one died and happy endings? It was a whole new world and I loved it.

I wrote my first story at eight and everyone died, of course. Since then I would like to think I’ve gotten better and now I’m writing the happily ever afters I first fell in love with, with some hot sex thrown in along the way.

As a plus size woman myself, I have started writing the stories I always wanted to see myself in but never did. And now I’m ecstatic to give BBWs the happily ever afters with hot Alphas I want to read.

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