Behind the Curtain by Beth Kery-Review and Giveaway

BEHIND THE CURTAIN by Beth Kery-Review and Giveaway

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BEHIND THE CURTAIN
by Beth Kery
Release Date: May 2, 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance

Behind the Curtain

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About the book: Release Date May 2, 2017

Cultures clash and passion ignites in the novel that will leave you begging for more—from the bestselling author of The Affair and Looking Inside.

There’s something about this woman…

On a break between overseas jobs, journalist Asher Gaites returns to his hometown of Chicago—and allows his friends to persuade him to check out a hot new singer. At a downtown jazz club, he’s soon transfixed by the lyrical voice and sensuous body of a woman who performs behind a thin, shimmering veil…

…That could bring a man to his knees.

The veil gives Moroccan American Laila Barek the anonymity she needs since she has never been able to reconcile her family’s values with her passion for music. But one man is inexplicably drawn to her. And when Asher confronts her on a subway platform after a gig, he’s shocked to recognize the woman who walked away from him nine years ago…

Laila has never been able to forget the touch, the feel, the taste of Asher. And despite the doubt and fear that wind their way into their lives, they must trust the heat of their desire to burn down the walls the world has placed between them

•••••••••••

REVIEW: BEHIND THE CURTAIN by Beth Kery is a stand alone, erotic, romance story line focusing on journalist and heir to a media fortune Asher Gaites, and singer/song writer Laila Barek. BEHIND THE CURTAIN is a second chance story of discrimination, family, heartbreak and betrayal for two people who fell in love years before.

Told from dual third person points of view (Laila and Asher) using both the present and the past, BEHIND THE CURTAIN follows the building but forbidden relationship between Moroccan-American/Muslim Laila Barek, and WASP/heir to the Gaites-Granville media empire Asher Gaites. Eight years earlier, Asher and Laila met while on vacation in Crescent Bay, Michigan but due to our heroine’s strong ties to her family and their cultural beliefs, a then twenty two year old Asher and nineteen year old Laila, had to keep secret their friendship and love fearing cultural backlash and discrimination. But secrets are revealed, lives are destroyed, and Laila is forced to push Asher out of her life. Fast forward eight years wherein Asher will come face to face with the woman he has always loved, a woman who has stepped out of the family bubble but not far enough to defy the people she loves. What ensues is the rekindling relationship and romance between Asher and Laila, and the fall out when their relationship is, once again, revealed to the people in charge.

BEHIND THE CURTAIN has a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Laila’s over protective and culturally distinct extended family, her cousins and best friends Zara and Tahi, as well as Asher’s pals Jimmy Rothschild, and Rudy Fattore. I am hoping for future story lines focusing on the couple’s friends

BEHIND THE CURTAIN symbolizes the secrets, the lies, the life lived in the shadows for a woman whose strong family background, cultural differences and belief systems are in opposition to everything she wants, and the man that she loves.

Beth Kery writes a story of forbidden romance, a Romeo and Juliet love affair between two people whose lives went in opposite directions: one hides behind a veil of secrecy while the other travels the world searching for freedom from the ties that bind.

BEHIND THE CURTAIN is a unique, exquisite and intimate look at an ill-fated relationship doomed from the start. There are moments of joy and love; heartbreak and sorrow; acceptance and moving forward. The premise is inspiring; the characters are colorful, dynamic and passionate; the romance is fated and moving. BEHIND THE CURTAIN is a slow building yet refreshing change of course from the usual romance story lines offered. The book is divided into two parts-the past and the present-there is no flip flopping, back and forth between time lines. Asher and Laila do get their happily ever after-at a cost.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

About The Author

Follow: Goodreads/Website/Facebook/Twitter/

Beth Kery (Bethany Kane) is the New York Times and USA Today best selling author of over thirty novels, novellas and serials. She writes contemporary romances as well as erotic contemporary romances, her hallmarks being emotional intensity, leap-off-the-page realistic characters and steamy sexual tension.

giveaway

The Reading Cafe and Beth Kery’s publisher are offering a paper copy of BEHIND THE CURTAIN to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

NOTE: If you are having difficulty commenting after logging into the site, please refresh the page at the top of your computer.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Please LIKE and Follow Beth Kery on Facebook

4. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

6. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

7. Giveaway is open to USA only

8. Giveaway runs from May 3-8, 2017

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Looking Inside by Beth Kery-Review and Giveaway

LOOKING INSIDE by Beth Kery-Review and Giveaway

Looking Inside Banner

LOOKING INSIDE
by Beth Kery
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance
Release Date: November 1, 2016

Looking Inside

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 1, 2016

Are you just going to stand there and watch?

Eleanor Briggs just can’t help herself. Every night, the sight of the man in the high-rise across the street is driving her wild. She longs to feel his touch up close and personal. To win him over, she’ll need to shake off her wallflower sensibilities and become the seductress she never imagined she could be. The only trouble will be finding the perfect way to meet him…

Or are you going to join in?

Sex is easy for millionaire entrepreneur Trey Riordan. Finding something of substance, however, seems impossible. That is until a simple night of reading at a local coffee shop becomes something far steamier when a beautiful brunette comes by and leaves a note telling him to look out his bedroom window at midnight. But when the time comes, neither of them will be truly ready for what follows…

•••••••••••

REVIEW:  LOOKING INSIDE by Beth Kery is a stand alone erotic, romance storyline focusing on library historian Eleanor Briggs, and millionaire entrepreneur Trey Riordan.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Eleanor and Trey) LOOKING INSIDE follows Eleanor Briggs in the first few months following the death of her older sister Caddy. For close to one year, Eleanor has watched Trey Riordan from her sister’s guest room window, and has put a plan into motion to meet the man who has been the focus of our heroine’s fantasies and late night voyeuristic tendencies. When Eleanor discovers that Trey is one of the guest speakers at the local coffee shop reading night, Eleanor steps out of her comfort zone and sets out to seduce the man in question. What ensues is the highly sexualized relationship between a man who is unwilling to commit to the future, and a woman who fears she is losing her identity to that of the sister who has died. Eleanor took to heart her sister’s final words, and the seduction of Trey Riordan pushes all of our heroine’s boundaries and comfort levels.

LOOKING INSIDE focuses on the acts of voyeurism and exhibitionism. Eleanor Briggs is both a voyeur and exhibitionist, as well as a natural submissive, and Trey Riordan plays the leading role as the target of being watched, and a receptive audience to Eleanor’s acts of late night seduction. There are a few vanilla acts of bondage and light discipline; the $ex scenes are erotic, intimate, seductive and intense. The chemistry is hot and palpable.

The story line conflict comes from within-our heroine is evolving as both a person and a sexual woman, and with it comes a lack of self-assuredness that is hindered when Trey reveals a connection to her past. Eleanor’s over the top reaction was a bit melodramatic and immature, and made for some questionable actions on behalf of the story line heroine.

LOOKING INSIDE is a slow building story line of fetish-voyeurism and exhibitionism-wherein Eleanor seductively dances her way into Trey Riordan’s heart. The premise is energetic and encouraging; the characters are colorful and passionate; the romance is provocative and alive.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

About The Author beige

Follow: Goodreads/Website/Facebook/Twitter/

Beth Kery (Bethany Kane) is the New York Times and USA Today best selling author of over thirty novels, novellas and serials. She writes contemporary romances as well as erotic contemporary romances, her hallmarks being emotional intensity, leap-off-the-page realistic characters and steamy sexual tension.

Giveaway beige

The Reading Cafe and Beth Kery’s publisher are offering a paper copy of LOOKING INSIDE to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

NOTE: If you are having difficulty commenting after logging into the site, please refresh the page at the top of your computer.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Please LIKE and Follow Beth Kery on Facebook

4. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

6. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

7. Giveaway is open to USA only

8. Giveaway runs from November 3-7, 2016

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Make Me (1-8) by Beth Kery-Review

MAKE ME (Serial 1-8) by Beth Kery-Serial Review

Make Me 1 to 8

Make Me Forget : Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /
Make Me Tremble : Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /
Make Me Say It : Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /
Make Me Desperate : Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /
Make Me Risk It: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /
Make Me Feel : Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /
Make Me Remember : Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /
Make Me Forever : Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April to May 2016

Harper McFaddan has made her name as an investigative journalist by being both compassionate and fearless. After tragedy strikes her family, she moves to the shores of Lake Tahoe to find some peace. But when mysterious software mogul Jacob Latimer comes into her life, her thoughts turn from her own healing to an urgent need to get closer to him…

Jacob Latimer is the definition of a self-made man. The software entrepreneur built his corporation from nothing, but rumors abound about the shadiness of his rise to power and no one knows what secrets lurk in his past. Harper is the last person he should let into his life. As an investigative journalist, she’s the one person who could expose his hidden origins. But Jacob knows things about Harper’s past that make him irresistibly drawn to her. He wants nothing more than to make her his—and Jacob is a man who always gets what he wants…

••••••••••

REVIEW: MAKE ME (releasing as an eight part serial April through May 2016) by Beth Kery is a stand alone, erotic, romance story line focusing on billionaire Jacob Latimer, and investigative journalist/editor Harper McFaddan. I was gifted the entire series and I am posting my review for the complete work.

Told from dual third person points of view using memories, flashbacks, dreams and present day MAKE ME follows the building relationship between Jacob Latimer and Harper McFaddan-a second chance of sorts-for two people whose lives, almost two decades earlier, intertwined their heart and souls.

Harper McFaddan recently moved to Tahoe Shores from San Francisco to start a new chapter in her life (following the death of her parents) but meeting reclusive billionaire Jacob Latimer finds our heroine caught between wanting to move forward and being pulled into the past. Jacob Latimer is a software entrepreneur whose secrets run deep; and little to nothing is known about his past. What ensues is a slow building romance between Jacob and Harper, as Jacob struggles with revealing the truth to the woman who calls to his soul.

MAKE ME is a sexually aggressive and graphic storyline with scenarios of bondage, rope play, and anal $ex that may be issues for some sensitive readers. Jacob is a man who likes control both in and out of the boardroom, and finds himself needing to claim Harper as his own. His fears of ‘losing’ Harper cause many anxious moments for a man whose reputation is cold and aloof. But little do most people know that Jacob is a man who has a need to protect those who cannot protect themselves.

The majority of the story line focuses on the relationship between Harper and Jacob interspersed with a series of flashbacks and dreams that will trigger memories from the past. We are introduced to Jacob’s inner circle-the people who know him best-yet the same people who know nothing about the boy he once was.

MAKE ME is an imaginative and spirited story line about betrayal and loss; grief and heartbreak; falling in love and letting go of the past. The premise is dramatic; the characters are captivating and intense; the romance is a slow build of passion, desire, wants and needs. MAKE ME is an erotic tale about fated lovers whose lives were destroyed by a single moment in time, but brought together for a second chance at forever and love.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

About the author

Beth KeryFollow: Goodreads/Website/Facebook/Twitter/

Beth Kery (Bethany Kane) is the New York Times and USA Today best selling author of over thirty novels, novellas and serials. She writes contemporary romances as well as erotic contemporary romances, her hallmarks being emotional intensity, leap-off-the-page realistic characters and steamy sexual tension.

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Glow (Glimmer and Glow #2) by Beth Kery-Review and Giveaway

GLOW (Glimmer and Glow #2) by Beth Kery-review and giveaway

 

GLOW
Glimmer and Glow #2
by Beth Kery
Release Date: December 1, 2015
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romantic suspense

 

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / BAM

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 1, 2015

Alice Reed never dreamed she’d escape the stigma of her disturbing past. That’s why she was shocked when, out of the blue, she was recruited to join the elite Durand Enterprises by the enigmatic CEO himself, Dylan Fall. The erotic charge between them was fast and deliciously forbidden. But as Alice opened up to worlds she’d never known, everything changed once again with a stunning discovery: there’s much, much more concealed in the shadows of Alice’s troubling childhood, and her life is about to change forever.

Now, with another piece of the puzzle of Alice’s identity revealed, a mysterious adversary plots to destroy it all—and Dylan is determined to protect her. But as Alice’s sexual addiction to Dylan turns helplessly to love, she can’t help but wonder: how deeply can she really trust him? What were his true motives in drawing her close to him? And what other secrets does he know about her past that even she has yet to learn?

•••••••

REVIEW: GLOW is the second installment in Beth Kery’s contemporary, adult GLIMMER AND GLOW erotic, romantic suspense duology focusing on business grad student Alice Reed and billionaire Dylan Fall. Their continuing story begins to unravel the truth about Alice’s true identity; the missing years; and the people responsible for the path towards her future. GLOW should not be read as a stand alone as much of the storyline is dependent on the information revealed in book one-Glimmer.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Dylan and Alice), as well as some flashback, dreamscapes, and journal entries GLOW focuses on Dylan and Alice’s building relationship, and the slow reveal about Alice’s past-her true heritage-and the family she never knew. As Alice continues to work with Durand Enterprises mentor program at Camp Durand, she struggles with her growing love for a man who knows more about Alice than Alice knows herself. Dylan was once a part of Alice’s life, years before, but Alice’s mind and memories are having a difficult time delineating fact from fiction; truth from lies. Everything about her relationship with Dylan is based upon trust-a trust that is fragile in the face of the truth, and the demons from her past.

GLOW is the culmination of a several weeks in the life of Dylan Fall, and Alice Reed. Alice was brought into Camp Durand under mysterious circumstances in an effort to determine the truth about her past. Alice is a sexy, intelligent and independent heroine whose life has been thrown into utter chaos when Dylan reveals that Alice is not who she believes she is.

All of the previous storyline characters return in secondary and supporting roles including the requisite evil whose relationship with Alice may be closer than anyone thinks. There are moments of heartbreak and pain, romance and love; letting go and moving forward.

The relationship between Dylan and Alice is highly sexual with numerous $ex scenes of graphic detail and description including some light spanking and anal play. Dylan is a man who has fallen for the woman he loved years before-in another life time before betrayal, fate and jealousy destroyed everything that he had.

GLOW is an erotic romance story of intrigue, mystery, and suspense. The twist and turns, revelations, and slow reveal of secrets will keep you reading until the very end. The premise is entertaining and imaginative; the characters are animated, delightful and intoxicating; the romance and happily ever after passionate, intense and beautiful. Beth Kery will captivate your imagination, and steal your breath with the powerful revelations in GLOW.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of GLIMMER book one

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

GIVEAWAY

Beth’s publisher are offering a paper copy of GLOW to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Please LIKE and Follow Beth Kery on Facebook

4. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

6. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

7. Please FOLLOW us on TSU for an additional entry.

8. Giveaway open to USA only

9. Giveaway runs from December 1-5, 2015

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Glimmer by Beth Kery-Review and Giveaway

GLIMMER by Beth Kery-Review and Giveaway

Glimmer Banner

Glimmer
Glimmer #1
by Beth Kery
Release Date: May 5, 2015
Genre: adult,contemporary, erotic, romance, suspense

Glimmer

Amazon.com / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 5, 2015

After graduating from her M.B.A. program, Alice Reed is surprised when she’s recruited for the management training experience at legendary Camp Durand, owned by Durand Inc.’s young, billionaire CEO, Dylan Fall. The company usually recruits from Ivy League schools, not insignificant colleges like Alice’s.

Alice enthusiastically accepts, but she still wonders why Dylan would choose a girl from the wrong side of the tracks for the prestigious program. But after a passionate encounter one night, she discovers exactly why—Dylan wants her, and Alice can hardly resist his fierce sexual appetites, though she is amazed that she could appeal to an experienced, sophisticated man like Dylan.

As Dylan introduces her to thrilling, erotic territory, Alice discovers a delicious new part of herself. Night after night, she steals away to find ecstasy and escape in Dylan’s arms. But behind her lover’s powerfully magnetic facade, Alice senses darkness, secrets from Dylan’s past lurking in his beautiful, lonely mansion—secrets that are starting to haunt Alice. And the ghosts of the truth might tear Dylan and Alice apart forever.

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: GLIMMER is the first installment in Beth Kery’s new, contemporary, adult erotic romance series focusing on M.B.A. graduate Alice Reed and billionaire CEO of Durand Enterprises Dylan Fall.

The storyline follows Alice as she is recruited for the prestigious Camp Durand-a management trainee program for the best of the best at America’s elite business schools. Alice is all too aware that Durand Enterprises usually recruits from the Ivy League schools and her acceptance into the program comes as a bit of a surprise-Alice grew up in the slums with a drug addicted mother and she attended a lesser known college not on Durand’s radar. Alice’s application interview with Durand CEO Dylan Fall finds Alice both on the offense and defense, but there is an immediate attraction that Alice refuses to acknowledge. As the camp ‘ trainees’ begin their month long management program, Alice begins a secret affair with Dylan Fall.

The relationship between Alice and Dylan is highly sexual and erotic. Dylan likes a little bit of control and kink in the bedroom; there is some definite bondage and discipline play between our couple. But Dylan has a secret that when exposed will change the dynamics of his relationship with Alice; and change Alice’s life forever. The $ex scenes are erotic, exploratory and provocative.

There are several colorful, engaging and interesting supporting characters including a number of fellow management trainee leaders-all vying for the coveted win and a chance to work for Durand Inc.- Thad Schaefer is a young man whose romantic interest in Alice is questionable, and Brooke Seifert who has a history with Thad and several of the other management trainees. We are introduced to Alice’s Red Team camp members-at risk teens from similar backgrounds and low socio-economic status. Camp Durand teams up management trainees with underprivileged kids in an effort to determine who would best be suited at Durand Enterprises. It is a sociological experiment where teams compete against one another and in the process the management trainees vie for a position with Durand Inc. The requisite evil comes in the form of Alice’s main competition-Thad and Brooke.

GLIMMER is an intoxicating and intense storyline with an intriguing premise and exciting twist. Although the build up allowed for a few hints and clues, I realized the ‘truth’ very early on. Beth Kery writes an incredible storyline of loss, love and never giving up.

Copy supplied by the publisher.

Reviewed by Sandy

giveaway

Beth’s  publisher and The Reading Cafe are offering a paper copy of GLIMMER to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Please LIKE and Follow Beth Kery on Facebook

4. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

6. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

7. Please FOLLOW us on TSU for an additional entry.

8. Giveaway open to USA only

9. Giveaway runs from May 5-9, 2015

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Only for You (One Night of Passion #3) by Beth Kery-Review and Giveaway

ONLY FOR YOU (One Night of Passion #3) by Beth Kery-Review and Giveaway

Only For You Banner

Only for You
One Night of Passion #3
by Beth Kery
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance
Release Date: December 2, 2014

Only for You

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 2, 2014

Former Army intelligence officer Seth Hightower may work with the Hollywood elite as a makeup artist, but he’s learned not to trust the rich and famous with anything more than a good time. Only one woman ever tempted him to break his rules about dating actresses—and she left him with the memory of a single night and a lifetime of what-ifs.

Hollywood “It” girl Gia Harris is used to being in the spotlight. But after she witnesses something that puts her life in danger, she needs to avoid prying eyes. Seth’s special skills make him the perfect person to keep her famous face out of the news, but their history makes him the last person she wants to be alone with. He’s far too tempting—and now, far too close….

As Seth conceals Gia from those who would do her harm, they can’t ignore the blistering attraction between them. And when they give in to their cravings, they reveal more about themselves than either of them has ever laid bare before.…

REVIEW: ONLY FOR YOU is the third full length installment in Beth Kery’s adult, contemporary ONE NIGHT OF PASSION erotic romance series. This is former army intelligence officer and Hollywood makeup artist Seth Hightower and actress Gia Harris’s storyline. Although this is the third book in the series it can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Some of the previous storyline characters play small roles throughout the novel but any important information revealed earlier is imparted where necessary.

Told from close third person points of view, ONLY FOR YOU is a second chance kind of storyline. Following a hot and sexy one night stand two years earlier, Gia never again heard from Seth. But Gia knew she lied about her career –an up and coming actress on the cusp of making it big –knowing that Seth wanted nothing to do with actresses or dating anyone in the industry. Two years would pass and Gia’s life is danger and Seth has been hired to protect the woman who had lied to him all those years ago.

The relationship between Seth and Gia is one of instant attraction but one built upon a lie. Seth’s experience with Hollywood actresses has left him burned and cold, but meeting Gia, Seth believed he quite possibly had found the ONE. Little did he realize that Gia was not truthful about her age, her history and her career-one that pushed Seth away-for good. When Gia’s life is threatened, Seth is reluctant to take the case knowing that he and Gia have a past. It is their mutual distrust of one another and a very long cross country car ride, that begins to fuel the fires of passion and love. The sex scenes are intimate, erotic and numerous. Seth is a man who cannot get enough of Gia and he likes control in the bedroom.

Most of the storyline focuses on the building relationship between Seth and Gia. Although our leading couple is secreted away, there is very little ongoing reference to what occurred that forces Gia into hiding. It is not until Gia is called back to testify against a Hollywood bigwig does the potential for attack become real. The focus of the story finds Gia the center of a media and paparazzi frenzy when it is believed that Gia is suffering with personal demons of her own.

The secondary characters and continued world building include some of the previous storyline couples for a sense of cohesion and familiarity. We will be reintroduced to Seth’s sister Joy and her husband/actor Everett Hughes, as well as Irish film director Rill Pierce and the love of his life Katie Hughes. Each of our storyline couples has some connection to one another-through blood, friendship and marriage.

Beth Kery is a master of erotic fiction where very little, between consenting adults, is off limits. Whether writing as Bethany Kane or Beth Kery, her storylines are definitely erotic, provocative and arousing. There is always an intense, emotional connection between her leading couples, and ONLY FOR YOU will pull you in from the very first.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

About the author

Beth KeryFollow: Goodreads/Website/Facebook/Twitter/

Beth Kery (Bethany Kane) is the New York Times and USA Today best selling author of over thirty novels, novellas and serials. She writes contemporary romances as well as erotic contemporary romances, her hallmarks being emotional intensity, leap-off-the-page realistic characters and steamy sexual tension.

 

giveaway
Beth’s publisher is offering a paper copy of ONLY FOR YOU to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1.If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Please LIKE us on FACEBOOK and click GET NOTIFICATIONS

4. Please LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

5. Please LIKE us on GOODREADS  for an additional entry.

6. Please LIKE Beth Kery on FACEBOOK.

7. Giveaway is U.S. only

8. Giveaway runs from December 2-6, 2014

Share

The Affair (1-8) by Beth Kery-Review and Interview

  The Affair (1-8) by Beth Kery-Review and Interview

The Affair 1-8

ABOUT THE BOOK: Serial Release Dates September 16 –November 4, 2014

Innocent yet unconventional hospice nurse Emma Shore has secured a new position at The Breakers, the sprawling mansion of enigmatic and dangerously handsome racecar billionaire Michael Montand. Hired as caretaker for Montand’s stepmother, Emma expects few complications. But one night, lost in the mansion’s maze of corridors, she comes upon a woman and a man she can’t identify engaged in a raw, naked interlude of sexual subjugation. Silently, from the shadows, Emma watches – shocked, appalled, and unnervingly aroused.

But Emma wonders… if this mysterious stranger is not Montand, then who is it? And what other surprises are in store for her? Night after sleepless night, she’s considering the possibilities. And for the first time in her life, she’s not going to run away from them.

••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE AFFAIR is the latest contemporary, erotic romance serial by Beth Kery. Released as an eight part serial THE AFFAIR focuses on hospice nurse Emma Shore and billionaire/racecar owner /developer Michael Montand.

Told from close third person point of view, the eight part storyline follows the building relationship between Emma and Michael. Emma’s position within the Montand household has an expiry date-hired to care for Michael’s dying step mother, Emma ‘accidentally’ witnesses Michael and another woman in a BDSM scene. Both turned off and turned on, Emma will come face to face with the man who would eventually bring Emma into his world. When Emma walks in on her boyfriend of two years having sex with another woman, Emma is free to explore what it is she truly wants.

The relationship between Emma and Michael begins as employer and employee but soon develops into something more. When Michael tells Emma he doesn’t do relationships and the only thing he can offer is sex, Emma offers Michael five weeks of sex and adventure then she will walk away. Michael will soon realize that five weeks with Emma is not enough-he wants a lifetime. The sex scenes are numerous, intimate and provocative.

THE AFFAIR is also a story of family, betrayal and letting go. There are moments of heartbreaking sorrow for a man who has lost everyone that he has loved and in return was rejected by the one person who should have been there from the start. Michael’s family is the epitome of dysfunctional and in this he is a man who will not commit to something more.

The world building brings the reader onto the racecar circuit and Grand Prix tours of Europe. The secondary characters include both Emma and Michael’s extended family members, friends and frenemies. Everyone has an agenda or a connection to the past.

The writing style is simple. There is no over the top angst or anxiety as the outcome is predictable. The BDSM premise is secondary to the storyline but it does command a good portion of the story. Michael’s persona did not scream Dominant but more of a need to control the world around him. The billionaire Dom and inexperienced sub is a familiar scenario. There are no hardcore BDSM scenes, no safe words, no anxious moments or questions of consent.

THE AFFAIR is an erotic romance storyline with a happily ever after. Fans of Beth Kery will recognize her signature BDSM storyline trope and you can’t help but fall in love with her leading characters.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

The Affair #1-You’ve Tantalized Me: Amazon.com/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

The Affair #2-Soon: Amazon.com/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

The Affair #3-Take A Chance: Amazon.com/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

The Affair #4-Forbidden Fruit:Amazon.com/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

The Affair #5-Let Me Spoil You: Amazon.com/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

The Affair #6-No Reservations: Amazon.com/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

The Affair #7: Can’t Stop Thinking About You: Amazon.com/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

The Affair #8: Never Let Go: Amazon.com/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

Interview 1

TRC:  Hi Beth and welcome back to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the release of THE AFFAIR.

Beth:  Thank you, and I’m very happy to be here.

TRC:  We would like to start with some background information. For anyone who does not know BETH KERY, would you please tell us something about yourself?

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Beth KeryBeth:  Sure. I worked as a psychologist for years before leaving and becoming a romance writer. Some say it’s a strange combination of professions, but I think anyone who does either job might realize the similarities. Like a psychologist, writers are usually keen observers of character and the dynamics of relationship and emotion. I’ve written around forty novels to date, along with several novellas, and prefer the contemporary romance/erotic romance genres. I’ve lived in downtown Chicago for too many years to name, and love the culture and energy of the city. However, I’m originally a small town girl, and love the country as well. When it comes down to it, I’d be hard pressed to say whether I prefer a bustling city or a mountain retreat.

TRC:  Who or what influenced your career in writing?

Beth:  Certainly my mother, who read to me in the womb I think, and is an avid reader herself. There were books everywhere in my house growing up. Books were impossible to ignore. My father, too, was a big reader. Although I read in all genres, I had the feeling I could write romance. I’m not sure why. I just got the pace and process of it. I’d definitely have to mention romance authors as influencing me. I loved Sandra Brown, Julie Garwood, Jude Deveraux, Emma Holly, Jaci Burton and many, many more throughout the years. Some people say work hard, play hard, but I’d say work hard, read hard. For me, a good romance was like a gift certificate to the spa or a gift of premium chocolate—permission to indulge.

TRC:  When not writing, what do you do to relax?

Beth:  Surf and shop the internet, watch favorite shows like Downton Abbey, 30 Rock or Grimm, shop (at real stores!) with friends or family, go to the Art Institute or Chicago History Museum, walk in Chicago or along the beaches of Lake Tahoe, keep in touch with friends and family via phone, text or Viber, read a book.

TRC:  THE AFFAIR is an eight-part erotic serial focusing on Emma Shore and the enigmatic Montand. Would you please tell us something about the premise of the series?

The Affair 1-8Beth:  Sure. Although on the surface THE AFFAIR is a super sexy love story, it’s also a book about grief and forgiveness, about finding the strength and will to live and love again. The hero and heroine are Michael Montand and Emma Shore—two characters that I truly came to adore. They are so perfect for one another. Emma has a bone deep, eternal strength about her. Montand calls her fey. Because of an experience she had with death early in life, she has this sort of grace and calmness about her. As a hospice nurse, she deals with issues on a daily basis that most people would run from. It’s her peace, unconventionality and strength that calls out to Montand.

Montand, on the other hand, is cynical about almost everything. He’s experienced terrible loss and grief throughout his life, including the death of his twin brother in a drowning accident where Montand was present and survived. So he carries a great deal of survivor guilt. Emma and Montand are quite a character contrast, but the rub off on each other. They learn from each other, and grow into better people during the journey of the book. At its core, I believe that THE AFFAIR is incredibly romantic. Yes, it’s erotic, but there is such tenderness between this couple, such poignant, sweet moments. Those ephemeral moments of romance between Emma and Montand are what I prize most about the book.

TRC:  What challenges or difficulties (research, logistics, background) did you encounter writing this particular story?

Beth:  THE AFFAIR is a serial, which means it was released in eight parts over eight weeks’ time. It was very arduous to write. It’s the size of two books in length. Plus, it’s a very emotional story. The serial format is very tricky to do in general, much more mentally challenging for me then a regular, linear novel. Despite what many people might think, the serial is not a regular novel that’s been chopped up into pieces. THE AFFAIR was written as a serial and is meant to be consumed over an eight-week period. I’ve told the story to coincide with the first eight weeks of Michael and Emma’s relationship, so that each week of the serial is a week of their love affair. There were times I didn’t think the time element would work. It’s like doing a rubric’s cube to get everything to fit just right into the time allotment and weekly installment. I eventually got it, and everything clicked into place. By the end of it, I was kind of wrung out, and at the same time, extremely happy with the results.

TRC:  If you could virtually cast the leading characters, which models or actors would best suit your ideal image?

Beth:  They both are solely from my imagination, but I thought Carey Mulligan was a great fit for Emma—strong, fresh, a little fey. As for Michael, he was more challenging to find a look-alike for. I imagine him as a European-type—a real Mediterranean God, so to speak. Strictly on a physical characteristic basis, I chose Theo Theodoridis on my Pinterest The Affair page as being akin in looks to Michael Montand. Beautiful. Tragic.

TRC: Theo is definitely tragic and beautiful.

TRC:  Do you have plans to continue the series? Spin-off?

Beth:  I’d love to tell Niki Dellis’s story. I have something special in mind for him. However, I have not contracted for a Niki-book to date.

TRC:  You were one of the first author’s to venture into the serialized storyline format. What do you believe is the appeal of the serial format?

Beth:  One thing that the serial has highlighted for me is the reminder that there are many different types of readers out there. Not all readers are the type to consume a novel in hours or in one night. There are people who really enjoy the serial’s pace and the anticipation of waiting for the next installment. Busy, mobile people often enjoy this shorter, episodic version of consuming a book. Also, people write to me and say that they have never been a big reader, or haven’t really read since high school, but they enjoy the serial. They feel positively reinforced for completing an installment when they have struggled finishing an entire novel. That positive reinforcement makes them want to read the next week’s part. The serial offers an alternative way of reading, and I believe it hits a different market. Of course the rabid readers can love the serial too. I hear from many several-books-a-week readers who follow the serial because it’s fun and a change of pace.

TRC:  What do you believe is the ‘down’ side of the serial format?

Beth:  Probably that the rabid booklover can feel unfulfilled by the weekly episode. They want to continue when they want to continue. I completely understand that. The serial isn’t for everyone. The one thing that I tell people who feel unsatisfied with the serial is, the traditional book will always be available to them. The serial isn’t a threat to traditional reading any more than an e-book is a threat to a print book. When a reader says to me, “I just don’t get the point of the serial. Why not just publish it all at once?” I say simply, there are people who like the serial for the reasons I’ve stated above. It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it really works for some. Plus, even for the most rabid reader, the serial has the advantage of coming out quicker and being available for reading before the traditionally published novel.

TRC:  Are any of your characters or the premises (of any or all of your books) based in reality or a combination of reality and fiction?

Beth:  None of my characters come from reality. They are products of my imagination. The thing about my characters and plots that is based in reality is that I’m very aware of people’s coping styles, their defense mechanisms and both healthy and dysfunctional ways of dealing with emotional angst or stress. That’s why I think there’s a decent level of reality to my characters, despite the fact that I’m writing a romantic fantasy.

TRC:  What are your thoughts on writing a series and ending an installment with a major cliff hanger?

Beth:  In regard to the serial? I’ve changed my opinion a lot on cliffhangers now that I’ve done three serials. I used to think each episode should dangle in the midst of the scene at the conclusion of the episode. Although there are still some cliffhangers today in my serial, I’ve come to realize that it’s not entirely necessary to create anticipation and excitement for the reader. If the reader is invested enough in the characters and their romance, it’s enough of a cliffhanger. Today in my serials, there are many installments that come to a fulfilling temporary conclusion. In regard to a traditional novel and a series, I try to avoid the cliffhanger as much as possible. For instance, I’m currently writing a story that has a two-book arc called GLIMMER and GLOW. This is one really large and developed story, and it took me two books to write it. So at the end of GLIMMER, while it is obvious that there is more story to tell, I attempted to bring it to a satisfactory climax between the hero and heroine, a temporary resting point. I didn’t want to leave the reader in too much anxiety over the wait between books.

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

Beth:  That’s a good question. I like to think I control things, but there are many times a character develops a mind of their own. Michael Montand, for instance, from THE AFFAIR was originally cast as much more cynical and aloof. But then he started interacting with Emma, and she’s so fresh and unexpected that he started revealing more of himself than I’d anticipated. He began to show his need for her much more intensely than I originally planned. Things happen like that all the time when I’m writing, and you just have to see where it leads you.

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

Beth:  I believe they truly have to understand not only their characters, but have a good understanding of dynamics and the ebb and flow of emotional interactions. I was talking with another writer recently and she was trying to write a psychologically complex scene. I said, do you understand what this woman is experiencing right now? Can you feel a measure of it? A good author must be truly compassionate, in my opinion. That doesn’t mean they have to enter in to the complete angst of having cancer, or experience the wild euphoria firsthand of an impulsive romantic tryst, or endure repeated losses of loved ones. But they do have to be willing to enter partly in to that experience. They have to feel along with their character, or they really won’t understand how their character is going to respond. I think the best scenes come when the writer is truly is inside their character’s head, and the dynamics of the scene naturally unfold.

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

Beth:  I kind of have a closet fascination with psychic phenomenon, like ESP, psychokinesis, clairvoyance. I’m not interested in it from a scary perspective, but a scientific one. I realized not many people know this about me because recently, one of my sisters, whom I’m close to, by the way, expressed surprise that I believed that a poltergeist phenomenon could occur. I’d love to write a book that involved some psi element . . . along with a romance, of course.

TRC:On what are you currently working?
Only for YouBeth:  I’m writing on the second book in the two-book arc I referred to above. It’s called GLOW. GLIMMER and GLOW are both contemporary, sexy romances, but they have more of a new adult feel with elements of suspense. At times, it even feels like bit of a ghost story. ☺ GLIMMER was a ton of fun to write, and I’m very excited about how everything is going to develop and deepen in GLOW. Also, the next novel in the One Night of Passion series, ONLY FOR YOU, is debuting on December 2, so I’ve been working to spread the word about that. ONLY FOR YOU is Seth’s story. Seth is a Hollywood special effects makeup artist at the top of his game, and he’s devoutly avowed to avoid actresses in the romance and sex department. Of course, fate just has to send his soul mate in the form of Hollywood’s sweetheart, celebrity Gia Harris. What’s life without a challenge? These are two smart, independent people who have to work to find their way to each other. I think readers will really enjoy taking that journey with them.

TRC:  Thank you Beth for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on all of your success. We wish you all the best.

Beth:  Thank you so much for having me at The Reading Café. It’s been fun.

Beth Kery is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over forty novels. She loves romance, and the more emotionally laden and sexy the romance, the better. Beth holds a doctorate degree in the behavioral sciences and enjoys using her knowledge of human nature to add depth and intensity to her stories. Her works have been translated into more than fourteen languages. Connect with her online at  BethKery.com and Facebook.com/Beth.Kery

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Since I Saw You (Because You Are Mine #4) by Beth Kery-a review

Since I Saw You ( Because You Are Mine #4) by Beth Kery-a review

Since I Saw You

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SINCE I SAW YOU (Because You Are Mine #4) by Beth Kery

ABOUT THE BOOK: May 6, 2014

When enigmatic billionaire Ian Noble sets Lin the task of “taming” his brilliant yet half-savage brother Kam Reardon, she eagerly accepts. She’s more than curious about the solitary genius and everything she’s heard about him. During their electric first meeting, her fascination increases a hundredfold. Kam practically oozes raw sex appeal. Lin is interested…very interested. But does her intense attraction and willingness to go places with him she’s never gone before in the bedroom really have to do with Kam? Or is her carefully hidden desire to blame for wanting a man she knows she can never have?

An elusive outsider, Kam avoids intimacy, yet never shies away from satisfying his erotic appetites. But there’s something different about Lin—a reserve he’s anxious to break. She’s a woman he’s eager to take his time withand possess completely. A sophisticated beauty like her would never want him anywhere but in bed, but he finds himself unable to resist her.

Immediately Lin’s smooth facade is undone by Kam’s overwhelming masculinity and by his irresistible erotic demands—a lesson in subjugation that leaves Lin confused, reeling, and open to things she never thought possible. Now, as the unpredictable nights between them grow darker, Lin and Kam are certain of only one thing: they’re made for each other.

•••••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: SINCE I SAW YOU is the fourth full length instalment in Beth Kery’s contemporary, erotic, adult romance series-Because You Are Mine. The focus is on Lin Soong (Executive at Noble Enterprises) and Ian Noble’s half brother Kam Reardon to whom we were first introduced in book three-Because We Belong. Kam is a recluse with a brilliant mind who has created the next big thing in medical technology. Lin has been assigned to assist and groom Kam for his visit to the US but along the way she will lose her heart to the man whose public persona is less than kind.

The storyline follows the building of both a professional and personal relationship between Kam and Lin but Kam knows that Lin’s heart has been set on someone else for years. There will never be a chance at a happily ever after for Lin as the man of her dreams has found his soulmate but Kam is hoping to that he will be the one to open Lin’s heart to love someone else. As Lin prepares Kam to meet potential investors, Kam prepares his heart for the eventual fall.

The relationship is quick to build. Kam and Lin are both mature adults who know what they want but Lin’s heart still holds out for the one that got away. Kam, like his half brothers, is a man who likes to experiment in the bedroom and he hopes to draw Lin into a world where Kam is the only man for her.

SINCE I SAW YOU is a sexually graphic storyline with some light BDSM. Beth Kery writes a sensually seductive and romantic storyline where two people will find their perfect match while trying to navigate a business venture in a world of billionaires and executive class snobs.

Several of the previous storyline characters play secondary roles including Ian and Francesca, Lucien and Elise. SINCE I SAW YOU advances the series by approximately nine to ten months and will come full circle with Ian and Francesca’s continuing story.

READING ORDER
1. Because You Are Mine
2. Because I’m With You
3. Because We Belong
4. Since I Saw You

Copy supplied by the publisher.

Reviewed by Sandy

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