Neutral Zone Trap (For Puck’s Sake 10) by Crea Reitan-review tour

Posted on December 14, 2024 by Sandy

🏒💜Neutral Zone Trap (For Puck’s Sake 10) by Crea Reitan-review tour🏒💜

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 12, 2024

I want something true.

Torin

Hiding behind my mascot mask has always worked in my favor. As someone with social anxiety and paralyzing shyness, the ability to be out in the world without being seen is the only way I’m able to function. It also means I can long for my crush from afar without him knowing.

I’m invisible inside my costume and try to go unseen otherwise. Except that Hugo always sees me because he’s such a sweet, kind, thoughtful man. Is it any surprise that I’m completely in love with him?

What starts out as an accidental anonymous text turns into a date but there’s just one problem. Hugo thinks he’s texting a girl. What happens when he finds out that’s not the case?

Hugo

When my closest friends all pair up, I’m left as the unpartnered ninth wheel, which becomes awkward and makes me feel out of place. That’s where my new friend, Torin, comes in.

The face behind the Surry the Seal is Torin Jonah. He’s so quiet and nice, I try to always make sure to say hi to him when I see him. It’s not hard to make sure someone knows that you see them.

We start hanging out all the time – having sleepovers, platonic cuddling, maybe a little throwback to teenage mutual jerking sessions in the shower amongst bros. When I tell him that I’ve been talking to this girl and I think I like her, suddenly I feel like I’m being unfaithful to him.

Now I’m not sure what to do. Date this girl or maybe see if Torin could possibly be interested in me and see what happens.

•••••

REVIEW:I absolutely loved this book. It’s my second favourite in this series.

Yes it’s a slow burn (but I’m so glad it was) is there plenty of hockey? (yes there is) do we catch up with regulars from the series? Absolutely.

Torin although part of this series, hasn’t really been seen in previous books. He’s the clubs mascot. Hidden behind a mask is just how Torin likes it. Suffering from crippling anxiety meant Torin can’t really get a job that he’s seen! So hiding gives him a wage and a sense of purpose.

Torin also has a HUGE crush on Hugo. It started also as soon as Torin spots Hugo, and when he says hi, or waves to him, it just makes his crush grow.

But Hugo is straight, and Torin wouldn’t ever put himself in a position to say hi.

Hugo is a defender, it’s his job to keep the puck away before it gets to the goal. He’s a big guy, and has been told often he’s just a “jock”, he’s been told to think before he speaks as he often offends! He loves his team mates, and he loves what he does…..

But….. Hugo is lonely! He’s watching his friends pair off and find their happy ever afters. And the puck bunnies don’t really hold any interest for him anymore. (In fact, there is a part in here that makes me 😱 and then 😢)

Torin starts the ball rolling by accidentally texting Hugo! (I’m not going to give that part away, as I did chuckle at that incident.) Hugo responds, and they start a conversation…..

Meanwhile Hugo has started coming over and saying hi to Torin, and a friendship begins…..

Hugo is socially awkward, he just says whatever he thinks or feels. (Not really the done thing, but I found it endearing) he likes the friendship that is growing between Torin and him, but he’s also looking forward to the texts he receives from his new friend. And as his feelings for both of the people, start to grow, he has to make a choice….

So what happens when Hugo goes on a date with his text “girl” and meets the man who has slowly taken over Hugo’s every waking moment?

OMG!! There is apart in here, that absolutely broke me 😢 I kept fingers, toes and everything in between crossed 🤐

The storyline is absorbing, the characters had my attention from the first word, until the last one. I just wanted this story to go on and on and on.

I like the words we get from the author in the beginning of her book, and at the end. Usually very thought provoking.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Shiver
Starting Line
Lucky Shot
The Crease
Wingman Score
Coach Stare Down
Stick Lessons
The Defending Goal
Just Winging It

Copy supplied for review

🦋 Reviewed by Julie B

Crea lives in upstate New York with her dog and husband. She has been writing since grade school, when her second grade teacher had her class keep writing journals. She has a habit of creating secondary, and often time tertiary, characters that take over her stories. All of her RH relationships end up being heavily polyamorous – meaning it’s not just all the men for one woman. There’s also some M/M action going on. When she can’t fall asleep at night, she thinks up new scenes for her characters to act out. This, of course, is how most of her meant-to-be-thrown-away characters tend to end up front and center – and utterly swoon-worthy! Don’t ask her how many book boyfriends she has…

When not writing, Crea is an avid reader. Her TBR pile is several hundred books high (don’t even look at her kindle wish list or the unread books on her tablet). Sometimes, she enjoys crafting; sometimes, exploring nature; sometimes, traveling. Mostly, she enjoys putting her characters on paper and breathing life into them. Oh, and sleeping. Crea loves to sleep!

Author Links:

Facebook Group / Facebook / Instagram / TikTok / Website /

Bleeding Heart (Sara Browne 4) by Tricia T Larochelle-review tour

Posted on December 13, 2024 by Sandy

Bleeding Heart (Sara Browne 4) by Tricia T Larochelle-review & excerpt tour

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 3,2024

Sara Williams yearns for a tranquil existence as she embraces her new life as a teacher and wife. Her ultimate desire is to cultivate a sense of security and simplicity alongside her husband, Scott.

But the escape of a notorious convict, Randy Meyers, disrupts Sara’s and Scott’s newfound stability, unleashing a wave of fear and uncertainty.

While danger looms, Sara is offered an unforeseen opportunity that threatens her future with Scott. Amidst the chaos of Christmastime, Sara and Scott’s love is put to the ultimate test. With each twist and turn, they must decide: will they let fear dictate their destiny, or will they embrace the unknown with open arms?

The heart that beats the hardest is the one that refuses to bleed out hope. Dive into Sara’s world and witness the true mettle of the Christmas spirit.

•••••

REVIEW:Bleeding Heart: A Holiday Romance is the fourth book in the Sara Browne series by Tricia T. Larochelle

Sara and Scott got married six years ago, and now they are trying to put together the life that they have always wished for. Scott is working at an architectural firm, and Sara is working at a middle school with special needs students. They are building their lives together. Scott is building their dream home.

Sara loves her work and just wants a peaceful, calm life with Scott.

While she struggles at times to overcome the trauma of her past, she works hard to try and keep it in check. That is until a infamous murderer escapes, and Sara’s world is turned upside down. Their small town is on high alert, and this brings Sara’s trauma and emotions to the surface again.

While she struggles, she is faced with a difficult choice. Will this choice threaten her future with Scott.
Can they get through the turmoil that has once again overtaken their lives.

This book was a wonderful holiday addition to the Sara Browne series. It can be read as a stand-alone, but I recommend the entire series. This book, as with all of the books by Tricia, takes you on a whirlwind journey through emotions, twists and trauma. I not only love the main characters in these books, but the sub-characters of Amy and Luke are also amazing. I highly recommend if you want a twisty, turn of emotion’s this holiday season.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Flickering Heart
Revive
Handfast

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Erin K

Copyright 2024, Tricia T. LaRochelle
I awoke to the light of the moon filtering in through the plantation blinds, our room quiet as a mouse. The measure of Scott’s breathing told me he was out cold. I turned over to face my clock that flashed 2:33 a.m. with its neon-blue digits. Why was I awake? A dry mouth answeredme. Thirst. I did eat a lot of pizza, and I did have two cosmos. I sat up, trying to rouse my mind enough to head to the bathroom to get some water.
All at once, a noise came out of nowhere. What was that?
I froze. Was it the wind hitting the house? The forecast had called for high winds, the enemy of outdoor Christmas decorations. Plus, this house was new, and I needed to get acquainted with its creaks and gentle moans. A nearby oak cast its shadowy branches across my window, and I found myself imagining it waving hello.
I lowered my feet to the floor and stood, my body suddenly cold. After making love, I often slept naked next to Scott, but in the winter, my shoulders had a way of chilling the rest of my body. Realizing this, I shuffled over to my closet and grabbed a nightshirt and pants made of brushed cotton.
Another sound came from … upstairs? I gazed at the ceiling. Was it a scrape or …? I struggled to process.
And then bang.
My heart practically leaped out of my chest.
Okay, that wasn’t the wind. And that wasn’t a tree, either, unless one was coming through
our second floor right now. I crept over to Scott and shook his shoulders. “Scott, I heard a noise upstairs.” Terror engulfed my senses, making it difficult to breathe.
All I could think was is it the escaped convict, Randy?

Since she was a little girl, Tricia T. LaRochelle has been obsessed with tragic love stories. No
beach reads for her. Bring on the grit with a double side of turmoil. She likes to feel the character’s anguish as they fight to overcome obstacles to be together. Growing up in central
Vermont, she has seen her share of tragedy but remains a hopeful romantic. She now lives in
central Virginia where she continues to foster the possibilities of how love can conquer all.

Flickering Heart is the first book in the Sara Browne Series. Stay tuned for updates and announcements on Instagram, Twitter, or sign up for her email list at TriciaLaRochelle.com.

Violet Promises (Oil Dukes 1) by Marie Johnston-review

Posted on December 8, 2024 by Sandy

Violet Promises (Oil Dukes 1) by Marie Johnston-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 3, 2024

It was supposed to be one night to feel alive after getting out of a dud of a relationship. Now I’m having a baby, and I only have the soon-to-be dad’s first name.

After my breakup, I need to find a job and place to live, but I can’t move into the house my grandma left me unless I’m married. Fortunately, the guy renting the place doesn’t know that, so I stop by and find out if he can move at the end of his lease.

Only when the door opens, it’s him. My one-night stand. I do the only reasonable thing possible. I tell him we’re going to have a baby and promptly puke over the railing of the porch. Next thing I know, I’m on his couch, and he’s demanding a paternity test.

Except he doesn’t just want the test. He wants to make sure I don’t tamper with the results. He doesn’t believe me. Apparently showing up jobless and homeless to persuade him to move doesn’t make me trustworthy. Guess I’m not the only one with a dating history that leaves me jaded.

•••••••••

REVIEW: First book in a new series, although one of the characters did appear in a previous book, (Endless Memory) and I did hold out hope that they would get a book. Then I realised it also contains a Barron, so it’s a double sided treat. (Oil Barron Series)

Evander Barron, what a grump! But as the book progresses, I understood where he was coming from. But it took a while for him to defrost towards Violet.

Violet Duke is looking for a new start after a breakup. So she’s hoping that a move to be nearer her sister will improve her chances. It also helps that she has a home in Coal, and that’s where she’s going to start her new life…..

Stipulations for inheriting the home her grandma had left her, had been to be married before she could live or sell the house. And the executor of the will is an aunt who won’t back down (I think she likes to play matchmaker.)

A one night stand that ends up being more! Violet is pregnant, and needs a place to stay. Can you imagine her surprise to find the lodger she needs to leave is none other than the man she slept with!

Think this is a definite “he falls first” book.

I love the way this author brings her characters to life. And the world they inhabit is just great. Described beautifully, you can almost imagine being there.

Can trust come? Or will Evander always distrust Violet? She lied about wanting the house, so why should he trust her?

Can they really coparent? Or will they raise the child separately?

And when doubt raises its ugly head, will they be able to get past it? Or will Violet push away the only man that has truly understood and loved her?

“You’re my world. You’re my beautiful wildflower.”

“Ever since I saw you at the bar that night, I knew you were special.”

“She was mine. I just had to convince her.”

So the rest of the Duke’s will hopefully get a book. And fingers crossed it’s Alder next 🤞

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B🦋

FOLLOW: Goodreads/Website/Facebook/Twitter/Instagram / Bookbub/ Pinterest

Marie Johnston is a RITA® Finalist, and a best-selling and award-winning writer of paranormal and contemporary romance – and an avid reader of them both.

Several years ago, when kids started outnumbering adults in the house, Marie Johnston left her job as a public health microbiologist to stay at home. Settling into working part-time and shuttling kids around gave Marie the opportunity to think about what she wanted to be when she grew up. A die-hard science geek, she explored her previously thought to be non-existent creative side after much time spent making snowman crafts and coloring princesses. Having entertained thoughts of writing a book one day then subsequently deciding it would be too hard, she finally put the figurative pen to paper and began to type – and fell in love with storytelling.

The Sigma Menace is the first series by Marie with Fever Claim being her first book EVER. She is humbled by the fact that people are willing to read to her books and looks forward to keeping readers entertained for many years.

Marie lives with her husband and four kids in the Upper Midwest where the summers are gorgeous, the winters are brutal, and spring and fall are luxuries.

Pump Fake (Fall Lake Ballers 2) by Isla Vaughn-review tour

Posted on December 7, 2024 by Sandy

🩵Pump Fake (Fall Lake Ballers 2) by Isla Vaughn-review tour🩵

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 5, 2024

A fake relationship between a fiery teacher and a notorious football star heats up into something dangerously real—but is this game worth the risk?

Brielle

Starting my teaching career as the butt of a prank gone wrong is not how I imagined things going. The hits keep coming when it’s none other than the notorious Ares Bellingham’s nephew who pulls the prank.

Ares, Fall Lake University’s most controversial rising football star, is the last person I expect—or want—to see standing in my classroom, but here he is, infuriatingly smug as he tries to fix things.

Just when I think things can’t get worse, my past resurfaces, threatening to disrupt the life I’ve worked so hard to rebuild.

But Ares has a plan, one that might be worth the Hail Mary he’s throwing my way, and suddenly my life becomes even more complicated.

Ares

One ridiculous mistake almost cost me everything—my shot at the NFL, my reputation, and my family. Now, I’m just inches away from getting benched for good.

My coach is breathing down my neck, the scouts are watching my every move, and I can’t afford another fumble.

But when my nephew’s prank lands me in Brielle Sinclair’s crosshairs, the fiery teacher with a no-nonsense attitude, I’m suddenly facing another fourth-and-long.

She needs help running interference on her past, and I need…well, I need her.

The Play

It’s simple, really.

I’ll be her pretend boyfriend to keep her tormentors at bay, and she’ll help me show the world I’m not the PR nightmare they think I am.

But as we spend more time together, faking it becomes harder, especially with sparks flying whenever I’m near her.

I’m ready to fight for her, but will she let me prove that what we have is more than just a game?

••••••••

REVIEW:Pump Fake is book two in the Fall Lake Ballers book series by Isla Vaughn.
Brielle Sinclair has the weight of the world on her shoulders. She is going to school, substitute teaching and trying to take care of her younger sister after her father lost their fortune and was charged with corporate fraud.

She is just trying to get through each day. Working around her college schedule, Brielle is a substitute teacher at an all-boys school called Linwood Prep. While teaching one day she has an issue with one of the students who pulled a prank on her. When she calls the boy’s grandmother, she can’t make the meeting. So, the grandmother sends her son, Ares Bellingham. Much to Brielle’s surprise! Everyone on campus knows Ares Bellingham. Senior star football player at Fall Lake University. And Brielle doesn’t have time for him or his horrible reputation.

Ares Bellingham is a star football player at Fall Lake University, who is having a rough time his senior year. After an indecent video got released – he can’t stop thinking about how one stupid moment has put his future football career in jeopardy. Not to mention trying to help his mom with his nephew Preston who lost both of his parents in a car accident a few years ago. His solution to at least part of his football problem is to find a serious girlfriend. So that it looks like he and his life is stable.

After a not so polite meeting between Ares and Brielle regarding Preston. They run into each other, literally at a bar one night, While Brielle is trying to appease her old snobby debutant friends, she asks Ares to pretend to be with her for a short period of time so that she can look good to her old friends. Ares agrees as he needs a fake relationship for very different reasons and what happens from there is a slow burn of anticipation and electrifying indifference. A wonderful frenemy to lover’s story.

A perfect addition to book one Quarterback Keeper. Highly recommend both!

Click HERE for Erin’s review of QUARTERBACK KEEPER

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Erin

Isla Vaughn is the author of the Hidden Valley Elite series. Her romance books are full of complex characters, strong alpha males, and the fierce women who bring them to their knees. When not writing, she can be found daydreaming about owning a beach house, reading, or drinking too much coffee while having in-depth conversations with her two adorable kittens.

Author Links:

Amazon: http://bit.ly/3XJBIMU
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/author.IslaVaughn
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/islavaughnauthor/
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@islavaughnauthor
Website: https://www.islavaughnauthor.com/

Legacy of Chaos (Demonica Birthright) by Larissa Ione-review tour

Posted on December 4, 2024 by Sandy

Legacy of Chaos (Demonica Birthright 2) by Larissa Ione-review & excerpt tour

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 3, 2024

The legacy continues…

It’s a gritty new world.

Three decades after the events of REAPER, the world is a different place. The secret is out. The existence of demons, vampires, shapeshifters, and angels has been revealed, and humans are struggling to adapt. Out of the chaos, The Aegis has risen to global power on the promise of containing or exterminating all underworlders, even if that means ushering in the End of Days.

Standing in their way is the next generation of warriors, the children of demons and angels and the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.

See how they become legends in their own right.

Legacy of Chaos

Stryke, son of Shade and Runa, grew up a happy, well-adjusted incubus alongside his four brothers. A supergenius, he took an interest in science and technology at an early age, with a dream of joining NASA…until a moment of carelessness resulted in the death of his little brother. Unable to forgive himself and desperate to prevent a similar tragedy from happening to others, he started up his own anti-demon tech company and sequestered himself behind its walls. Now he’s a household name and one of the wealthiest people on the planet.

Cyan, a technomancer who works as a cybersecurity expert for DART, lost her best friend to a weapon designed by Stryke’s company. She’s hurt, angry, and wants revenge. So when an opportunity to work with Stryke on a project arises, she jumps at the chance to help DART and make Stryke’s life miserable.

At first, Cyan and Stryke butt heads about everything. But she soon finds that deep down, he’s desperately wounded and willing to sacrifice everything, including his family, to achieve his goals. Can she help him heal before he destroys himself—and everyone around him?

•••

REVIEW:What an amazing world! Legacy of Chaos is book two in the Demonica Birthright series, a spin off/second generation continuation of the original Demonica/Deliverance series. If you haven’t read the original series, I would definitely recommend doing so before dipping your toes into the Birthright series. There are many, many characters and storylines from the OG series that come into play, and a new reader may find themselves a little lost.

Onto the juicy parts! Our story focuses on Stryke (Shade and Runa’s son from the previous book) and Cyan. Stryke is a tech genius billionaire, living with the pain and guilt over the death of his youngest brother. He believes it is his fault and because of that has cut himself off from friends, family and love, throwing himself into his work determined to make things that will protect people and not harm them. When Cyan joins the team that has commissioned his company to make, he is less than happy, but what DART wants, they get.

Cyan is less than thrilled when she is assigned to work next to Stryke. She used to worship the ground the man walked on, and would have loved to be working side by side with him then. Now? Now all she wants is to get the job done and get as far away from him as she can. He builds weapons afterall, and one of those weapons took someone very important away from her. As a technomancer Cyan becomes a vital part of the building process and the two work together to build said weapon. During this time Cyan slowly starts to see another part of Stryke, one that has been questioning how she feels about him. She sees the pain and regret that he lives with, and all that he has done to try and redeem himself.

I was a little surprised with how much I really clicked with this book, although I shouldn’t be surprised. Stryke and Cyan gave me such grumpy/sunshine vibes, even though I wouldn’t call Cyan a sunshine character, she does have a much more positive outlook and tried to use that to help Stryke with his PTSD. The plot and story were easy to follow, but had a great intrigue and intensity that kept me engaged and ready for the next page. Cyan healed a part of Stryke that I think his character really needed, his vulnerability and fear mixed with his guilt about his brother was weighing him down so much, and with Cyan that was lifted. I can’t wait to see what the rest of the series has in store for us next!

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sarah

“Let’s go inside where it’s safe,” Cyan said, turning back to Stryke.
“You go. I’ll catch up.”
She stared at him through the dense tendrils of fog that swirled in the space between them. “I’m not leaving you here alone.”
He didn’t look at her, but she swore he said something like, “I couldn’t save him.”
Not so distantly, a sound like something wet slithering on metal sent a chill up her spine.
“Stryke,” she said with growing urgency. “Let’s go.”
His head swung around, and she drew a sharp breath at the gleaming gold burning in his eyes.
“I can’t,” he growled. “It’s not safe.”
A warm wave of arousal washed over her, and instantly, she understood. “Did you bring your medicine?”
He reached into his pocket and pulled out a crushed injector pen. “This contained four doses.” He closed his eyes. “Blade was right. I’m an arrogant asshole. I couldn’t save him.”
“Er…yeah.” He wasn’t making sense. None of this made sense. Maybe he was experiencing a nervous breakdown. Too much stress or something.
“You did everything you could for Ubundi,” she said calmly, but his eyes popped open, and he looked at her like he didn’t understand.
“Not Ubundi.”
Not Ubundi? What was he talking about?
Something in the fog snarled, and closer, something hissed. She decided to worry about whatever was wrong with Stryke later.
“Okay, we’ll deal with it inside.” He didn’t move, but he did open his eyes. Somehow, they glowed even brighter, a molten gold that made her feel like whiskey flowed through her veins. She burned in the best way. “Stryke.” She extended her hand. “We really have to go inside.”
The wrench clattered to the deck, but he still didn’t move. Fiery turmoil as violent as the stormy sea filled his expression, drawing her in with a sense of almost morbid fascination. She wanted to touch that fire. See how badly it would scorch her.
She stepped closer, her heart pumping so hard she could hear it over the roar of the wind. Desire fluttered in her belly, even as her brain screamed that they were in danger. Screamed that he was the danger.
“Come on,” she whispered, taking his hand.
His grip snapped closed on her wrist, and he wheeled them both around lightning-fast, slamming her against a huge tank. He pinned her wrists above her head and pressed his big, warm body against hers.
Teeth bared, his face inches from hers, he growled, a sound that relaxed her muscles and turned her core liquid. Oh, wow. So, this was why lust demons were so dangerous. Here they were in a situation that could get them killed, and all she wanted to do was strip off her clothes and let him do whatever he wanted to her. Right here. In the cold rain. Likely with demons stalking them.
“Go…inside,” he gritted, even as he pushed his pelvis into hers, the hard ridge of his erection making her instinctively roll her hips against it. He sucked in a harsh breath, and the gold in his eyes swirled.
“I’m not going in without you,” she said, her voice sounding more breathless than she’d like.
“Yes, you are.”
Did he understand what he was saying? Did he really want to send her away? What the hell was wrong with him?
Her lust turned to instant fury, something she was far more comfortable with around him. She jerked angrily out of his grip. “What is your deal? If you stay out here, you’ll get killed!”
“I know. But I won’t make it easy on them, and I’ll take out as many of those bastards as I can.”
Oh, gods. He was serious. He really was prepared to fight to the death. And he wasn’t even bothered by the idea. It was all just very ho-hum.
“Stryke, you don’t have to die. Come inside.”

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

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All The Pretty Lies (Second Sons 1) by Avelyn Paige-review tour

Posted on December 1, 2024 by Sandy

💚💜All The Pretty Lies (Second Sons Duet 1) by Avelyn Paige-review tour💚💜

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 29, 2024

Vesper Rossi has always known her life isn’t her own. Born into the notorious Rossi family, her destiny was set—to marry the heir of the ruthless Petrov empire and solidify a deadly alliance. Her intended’s twin cousins, Oscar and Zaire, offer her a dangerous lifeline and the chance to escape.

When their plan fails, Vesper is taken captive. For two years, she endures unspeakable horrors, her body exploited by a faceless enemy intent on breaking her. Once she serves her purpose, she is sold—not to strangers, but to the very men who failed her.

Oscar and Zaire, along with the rest of their Second Sons family, return with vengeance in their hearts and regret fueling their every move. Failure is not an option this time. When Vesper learns that her captivity held was the result of a more malevolent plot, she will stop at nothing to get back what was stolen from her.

With her body, heart, and mind scarred but unbroken, Vesper is ready to reclaim her power with the Second Sons at her back and in her bed.

Blood will be spilled, alliances will crumble, and no one will be spared.

••••••••

REVIEW:Check your trigger warnings with this one readers-

All The Pretty Lies is an intense reverse harem/Why Choose, mafia romance. Avelyn Paige weaves a web of mysterious lies and suspense with hidden layers that are slowly peeled away as the plot unfolds.

From her first breath Vesper has known that part she will play to her family. You see, her family isn’t a run of the mill family, no. She’s the daughter of the mafia, and thus her life is forfeit, she is to be married off to an unknown man for the benefit of her family. Life however has a different path in store for Vesper. As the doomsdate (as I like to call it) looms closer and closer, her brother hatches a plan to help her, betrothing her to the Russian Petrov twins. This little glimmer of hope Vesper has is quickly extinguished when she is brutally kidnapped and held prisoner.

Fast forward two long years and Vesper has had to endure being tortured and brutalized, broken down and shattered, all the passing fancy for this monster of a man. For two years, the Second Sons; Oscar, Zaire, Talon and Alex search for her to an obsessional degree. When they are finally able to locate her, she is a shadow of the person she used to be. Nevertheless, the men want to help her heal and recover, they want to give her a reason to live again.

To say this book is fabulous just doesn’t cover it. ATPL is dark, gritty and intense. There are moments when the guys have me panting, and others when I want to beat them upside their stupidly attractive heads. Talon and Alex are -Chef’s kiss- delicious, and when we got that little teaser from Alex I was practically feral. This book will take you for a ride of ups and downs, heartbreak and heat, sobbing and spice all in the same chapter. The ending, readers be warned, is the most frustrating cliffhanger of all time and I can’t wait to get the next part!

Tropes

💚Mafia Romance

💜Why Choose

☠️Touch her and die

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sarah

Avelyn Paige is a Wall Street Journal and USA TODAY bestselling author of romantic suspense and motorcycle club romance. She lives in a small town in Indiana with her husband and four fuzzy kids.

When she’s not writing, Avelyn spends her days working as a cancer research scientist. Avelyn has been an avid reader her entire life, and it wasn’t until losing her father in 2015 that she started turning all those ideas in her head into stories. She hasn’t looked back since.

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BEYOND THE WATER’S EDGE by Janine Eaby -review

Posted on November 24, 2024 by Sandy

BEYOND THE WATER’S EDGE (Beyond the Water’s Edge 1) by Janine Eaby -review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 29, 2024

What you don’t know can’t hurt you—at least that’s what people say. Those people have never harbored a secret others would kill for.

Alaira Hughes is preparing to graduate high school, but her once-clear future is changing. When she makes a magical discovery in the woods that seems too good to be true, she’s reluctant to tell her friends. Plagued by realistic nightmares and a cascade of seemingly impossible events, doubts begin to seep in.

When she meets a captivating young man who holds the answers to her mounting questions, a new path is set before her. If she walks away, she may never get the answers she seeks, but if she chooses the new path, she may find more than she expected. She must fight to learn the truth.

And the truth can be deadly.

••••••

REVIEW: Magic/mystery and a budding romance (maybe 😉) what more could you ask for? Young adult read. And a first time author. So congratulations on getting published.

Alaira is ready for the next journey of her life. She’s going to be studying Biology in a university that requires her to stay there. She’s a little sad that her best friend won’t be coming to the same one, but excited about new adventures. But her dreams are plaguing her, she’s not sure what they mean. And now her waking moments are beginning to worry her, is she dreaming these moments, or are they real?

Alaira, I felt was a little naive at the beginning of the book. But I loved how she looked at this new world that she’d discovered. Very wide eyed and full of wonder.

Meeting Enver is a revelation. He assumes she’s aware of what she can do…. When she asks questions, he quickly realises she’s not aware!

There is a key that is needed to travel from one place to another. No key, no travel. Enver has lost his key, he’s also lost most of his memories, and he’s desperate to go home. Can Alaira help? She’s not sure what key she’s looking for, but something in her memories is triggered!! She might have what he’s looking for…..

From there, the book takes you on a fast paced adventure. But with adventure comes danger, and Alaira comes face to face with danger! (And it’s at this point I’m not sure if I trust Enver! 🤔)

We meet new friends, possible allies, and beings Alaira needs to stay clear of! Oh! And apparently Alaira has powers/abilities. 😉 That will only get stronger as time goes by….

I would have liked the appendix that appeared at the end of the book to have been in the front (personal opinion) I did worry that I might have looked at the last page (luckily that didn’t happen)

I’m hoping we get the next book soon as I’m anxious to find out what happens next….

It’s not a cliffhanger, but it does leave it open for the next story.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B 🦋

Speak of the Devil (Rock Star Romance) by S. L. Scott -a review

Posted on November 22, 2024 by Sandy

Speak of the Devil: (A Second Chance Rock Star Romance) by S. L. Scott -review tour

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 14, 2024

It was always you, babe.

A Slow Burn, Surprise Pregnancy, Second Chance, Rock Star, Standalone Romance from S.L. Scott, a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author.

The hottest rock star in the world walking into my work wasn’t on my bingo card. Speak of the devil .

My soon-to-be ex-husband.

Shane Faris is taller than I remember. Scruffier. More attractive than ever and sporting a sinful smirk that tells me he hears “Yes” too much. Figures.

He offers me the divorce I want, but on one condition . . .

A weekend together, for old times’ sake.

He’s partied his way through time zones, collecting ink on his skin to commemorate events I wasn’t a part of. While I struggled to earn my degrees, Shane chased fame and made memories without me.

It’s time to move on.

So why does his presence cause my heart to kick up a beat and my cheeks to blush when he sends me a wink? I can’t resist him. And he is my husband, after all, if only for a few more days.

When that weekend becomes two lines on a pregnancy test, we must decide whether this is a second chance worth taking together.

••••••

REVIEW: Rockstar Romance/Second Chance Romances/Unexpected Pregnancy tropes aren’t my usual go to reads. I have to be in the mood. And Rockstar Romances are a relatively new trope to me. But I love S.L. Scott’s work, and I’d read the first book in this series (Never Have I Ever) which I loved.

Catalina is a nurse, who loves her job and patients. She’s worked hard to get there, and when an opportunity to buy her own home arises, Cate jumps at the chance. Only problem…. Her husband!!!

Shane is a drummer in a rock band. He’s loving life and all the perks that come with it. Receiving a few messages from a name he hasn’t thought of in a while piques his interest, so he heads out to find out more…..

Cate and Shane have no idea how they are actually married, they connected in high school and had one conversation and a kiss. So both are stunned to find out they are legally married! Who did this? And why? Cate is going to lose her dream home if this doesn’t get sorted. And if the paparazzi find out about Shane and Cate, it’s going to be a media nightmare!! (Shane doesn’t want that for Cate.) Just when you think it’s all going to be ok, Shane up and leaves…. 🤔 and at that point I just wanted to put the story down! I thought there was a connection, I’ll admit I was a little disappointed!

But in the meantime, Shane has been thinking, he’s ready for commitment, he’s ready to claim Cate as his. Only one problem, the way he left, he doesn’t think she will give him another chance! It’s time to up his game if he wants the girl. So how do they proceed?

Well….. Shane proposes a weekend together, then the divorce will be settled and they will be free to go their own ways!

Then the unthinkable happens…. An unplanned pregnancy!! Shane and Cate want kids, but just not yet! Their relationship is being taken slowly, and a child might not be the right thing right this minute. So what happens next?

I did like the two epilogues. They made me smile. And a great way to end a really good book.

The banter between these two had me chuckling, and the chemistry had me reaching for 🧊 😉 it was definitely a he falls first, I feel. And Shane does his best to get Cate to feel the same way.

Will Shane and Cate get their once in a lifetime love? Or will it just be a fun weekend memory? Can they walk away even though it was a fake marriage?

Lots of emotions, medium angst, and me thinking Cate really shouldn’t have given Shane such an easy pass…. maybe a little more grovelling 😉

I didn’t want to give too much away, as I hate reading reviews with huge spoilers. But I will recommend this book if you love the author, and like your romance with a slow burn, but lots of great moments. And I can’t wait to read the next book in the series (and maybe get to see more of Cate/Shane.)

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B 🦋

Living in the capital of Texas with her family, Scott loves traveling, avocados, beaches, and cooking with her kids. She’s obsessed with epic romances and loves a good plot twist.

Scott writes character driven, heart-racing, and swoony romances to suspense that will leave you glued to the page. Her stories are regarded as emotion-filled and soulful. With stories ranging from light and witty beach reads to heart wrenching and heart healing, Scott has a story for all readers. Her books are more than escapes for the voracious readers of today. They are journeys of the heart that always come with a happily ever after reward at the end.

Connect w/S.L. Scott:

Website: www.slscottauthor.com or https://geni.us/slscott
Newsletter: https://geni.us/intheknow
Amazon: https://geni.us/SLSAm
Goodreads: https://geni.us/SLGR
Instagram: https://geni.us/IGSLS
Facebook: https://geni.us/SLSPage
Bookbub: https://geni.us/SLScottBB
Facebook Reader Group: https://geni.us/SLScottBooks
Twitter: https://geni.us/SLTwitter

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Tag Archives: Contributor Reviews

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