Tag Archives: Elisabeth Naughton

Ensnared (Eternal Guardians / 1001 Dark Nights) by Elisabeth Naughton-Review Tour

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Ensnared (Eternal Guardians / 1001 Dark Nights) by Elisabeth Laughton-Review Tour

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RYDER–Mysterious, powerful, every woman’s fantasy come true.

For thousands of years, Ryder has reveled in his role as an immortal messenger—a dream weaver sent to seduce and manipulate. Until he’s ordered to deceive a fantasy of his own.

Zakara, the daughter of one of the mightiest Eternal Guardians, is his perfect woman. But she’s impervious to Ryder’s advances. Each attempt to sway her to his will pushes him deeper into a dreamscape she seems to be controlling. To survive, Ryder will need to find a way to master his sexy new prey. Because if he can’t, he risks forever condemning himself and the woman he’s grown to love to a never-ending nightmare drawn straight from the twisted depths of hell.

•••••••••

REVIEW: ENSNARED is the latest novella in Elisabeth Naughton’s contemporary, adult ETERNAL GUARDIANS paranormal / fantasy, romance series based in Greek mythology, prophecy and history, as well as the latest addition to the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights series.

The modern day heroes –the Argonauts-are descended from the Gods of Olympus whom fate has decreed the Eternal Guardians on Earth. This is the cosmic deity and dream weaver Ryder aka Morpheus (god of dreams), and Zakara aka Kara’s story line. ENSNARED can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Kara and Ryder) ENSNARED follows the building relationship between cosmic deity and dream weaver Ryder aka Morpheus, and Zakara aka Kara, daughter of Callia, and Argonaut father Zander. Zeus, the god-king has taken control of our hero Ryder, and in doing so demands Ryder seek out the descendants of the ancient goddesses the Horae (goddesses of the seasons). Ryder’s latest target is the daughter of Callia and the Argonaut warrior Zander, a target who has yet to come into her powers. As a dream walker Ryder infiltrates our heroine’s dreams only to realize there is more to Zakara than anyone could have imagined. What ensues is the building relationship and romance between Ryder and Kara, and the potential fall-out as Zeus demands Ryder finish his assignment.

ENSNARED deviates from the previous story lines in that there is no mention of Zeus’ struggle to complete the Orb of Kronus a circular disk, designed by Prometheus, that holds all four elements, and the deity who is in possession of the Orb has the ability to start the war to end all wars. Zeus had previously stolen the Orb of Kronus from the Argoleans but the water element remains elusive, and Zeus suspects is has been hidden in Argolea, where the Olympians –and thusly Zeus- are unable to cross. Saying that, Ryder will be accepted by the Argonauts and thusly protected while living in Argolea.

The relationship between Ryder and Kara is one of immediate attraction perpetrated with a seduction and a lie. Zeus demands Ryder’s obedience but in doing so places Ryder together with the woman he loves. The $ex scenes are passionate and intimate without the use of over top, sexually graphic language and text.

The secondary characters include Zeus, Zeus’s Sirens, Callie and Zander, as well as a number of previous story line couples.

ENSNARED is a quick read; a story of power, control and love; a tale of vengeance and freedom. Once again, Elisabeth Naughton blends modern day with fantasy and mythology as the gods and goddesses of Olympus seek to win at all costs. The premise is inviting; the romance is seductive; the characters are strong and captivating.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Happily ever after wasn’t in his future. Reality and dreams—as he’d learned long ago—did not intermix. It was too dangerous. And he’d spent months successfully avoiding her, only to have Zeus send him straight to her now.
Only now that he was here, some part of him was thankful he no longer had to avoid her. He knew he should go on fighting the attraction but he didn’t want to. She was everything he’d been denying himself. Everything he craved. That connection he’d been missing for so damn long. For tonight, at least, he wanted to indulge in the one temptation he knew he could never truly have.
“I wondered when you’d return.”
She turned at the sound of his voice and lifted surprised eyes to his. Violet eyes. Mesmerizing eyes. Eyes that softened and warmed the instant they locked on his. “I was tied up all day with family stuff. This was the soonest I could get here.”
Damn, he didn’t remember those eyes being quite that brilliant.
“Thankfully, you’re here now.” He reached for her hand, silky soft skin sliding over his much rougher palm, and drew her toward him. Her lithe body brushed up against his without even the slightest hesitation.
“Where is here?” she asked, tipping her face up toward his, teasing him with her plump, pink lips beneath the softly swaying palms in the warm breeze.
“Right where we left off.”
He lowered his lips to hers with a kiss that sizzled along every one of his nerve endings and taunted his rock-solid self-control. But before he could deepen the kiss and tease her with the promise of a little pleasure, he registered that the water beneath his feet had turned cold, and the warm breeze that had once been ruffling his hair now left a shiver down his spine.
He drew back, lifted his head, and glanced around the beach, only to gasp at what he saw. No more palm trees, no more powder white sand, no gently lapping waves. The water was now still and black, the shore a mixture of rough sand and small round stones, and there was no more tropical foliage rising from the beach. Instead, steep, rigid mountains stood tall against a starry sky. Mountains covered in pine and fir and spruce and cottonwood.
“What in all the gods…” Still holding her hands, he turned to the left and looked back behind him, no longer seeing his bare footprints in the soft sand as they’d been moments before. Catching nothing but the dark rocky shoreline as it curved around what looked to be a small bay in a rather large lake.
“Something wrong?”
Her sweet voice drew him back around, and he looked down with wide eyes, shocked she didn’t seem the slightest bit concerned. “I…”
Words faltered on his lips. Had he altered the dream right there mid-kiss?

 

Before topping multiple bestseller lists—including those of the New York Times, USA Today, and the Wall Street Journal—Elisabeth Naughton taught middle school science. A voracious reader, she soon discovered she had a knack for creating stories with a chemistry of their own. The spark turned into a flame, and Naughton now writes full-time. Besides topping bestseller lists, her books have been nominated for some of the industry’s most prestigious awards, such as the RITA® and Golden Heart Awards from Romance Writers of America, the Australian Romance Reader Awards, and the Golden Leaf Award. When not dreaming up new stories, Naughton can be found spending time with her husband and three children in their western Oregon home.

Follow Elisabeth: Facebook / Goodreads / Website / Twitter

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Unspeakable (Deadly Secrets #4) by Elisabeth Naughton-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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UNSPEAKABLE (Deadly Secrets #4) by Elisabeth Naughton-Review, Excerpt and Giveaway

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 20, 2018

All his siblings have moved on from their troubling pasts, but Rusty McClane can’t leave his behind. Not even when his freedom is in jeopardy.

Legal investigator Harper Blake can sense a bad boy. She’s drawn to them—like she is to her mysterious and brooding new client. The police believe that Rusty is involved with the case of a missing underage girl. Harper’s job is to find evidence to defend him. But is her sexy suspect a predator…or something else?

If Rusty is guilty of anything, it’s of stirring something primitive in Harper. The closer they get, the harder it is to believe the worst of him.

But in an underworld filled with sex trafficking, kidnapping, and murder, Harper will need to be cautious about whom she trusts. Because Rusty isn’t the only one with secrets.

•••••••••••

REVIEW:UNSPEAKABLE is the fourth instalment in Elisabeth Naughton’s contemporary, adult DEADLY SECRETS romantic suspense series focusing on the four adopted McClane siblings (Ethan, Alex, Kelsey, Rusty). This is vintner and vigilante Russell ‘Rusty’ McClane, and legal investigator Harper Blake’s story line. UNSPEAKABLE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

Told from several third person perspectives (Rusty and Harper) UNSPEAKABLE follows vintner Russell ‘Rusty’ McClane, and legal investigator Harper Blake as they cross paths investigating a potential human trafficking ring with possible connections to a number of murdered and missing sex workers and strippers in and around the Portland, Oregon area. When Russell is ID’d as a possible suspect in the disappearance of an underage stripper, former police officer turned legal investigator Harper Blake believes Russell is hiding more than meets the eye. What ensues is the building relationship and romance between Harper and Rusty, as our leading couple work together to uncover and reveal the truth.

Rusty McClane has devoted his life to protecting those unable to protect themselves. A past mired in darkness and loss, Rusty specializes in locating the missing and lost- a one man operation determined to avenge for sins of the past. Former police officer Harper Blake has never met a man like Rusty McClane but Harper suspects Rusty is not whom the police report him to be. There is something about our hero that draws Harper like a moth to a flame, a flame that burns hotter with every encounter.

The relationship between Harper and Rusty is one of immediate attraction but Rusty is the Portland PD’s current suspect in a rash of missing under-aged girls, and for all intents and purposes is off limits. Working together Rusty will reveal the truth behind his vigilante tactics, as Harper slowly falls for the man before her eyes. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including all of Rusty’s siblings: Ethan and Samantha (Repressed #1), Alex and Raegan (Gone #2), Kelsey and Hunter (Protected #3), as well as youngest brother Thomas, their parents Hannah and Michael McClane; Harper’s boss Andrew Renwick, detectives Brett Callahan, and Noah Pierce. The requisite evil has many faces, some familiar to both of our leading couple. I am not sure if the author has plans for Thomas-he is a senior in high school, and his story would require an advance of several years in the series.

UNSPEAKABLE is a story of family, betrayal, vengeance and love. The fast paced premise is intriguing and intelligent; the characters are spirited and dynamic; the romance is provocative and edgy. UNSPEAKABLE is an engaging and intense story of mystery wherein two people are pulled together by the seedy underbelly of the human sex trade.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Repressed
Gone
Protected
Unspeakable

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

They turned in a slow circle, neither talking, then quietly, in his ear, she said, “So they’re auctioning off one girl tonight?”

Harper’s warm breath sent tingles all along his neck, but he fought from shivering. Fought from pulling her in closer as well. “Yeah. This party is a cover for it. Only a handful of the richest men here will be escorted down to the auction.”

“It’s somewhere in the back?”

“Supposedly.”

“Sick.”

They were. Rusty glanced around the dimly lit room, checking masked faces for any he recognized. He didn’t see any.

“Do you think she’s being held back there?”

“That’d be my guess. Probably in a lower level.”

“I came in through a lower level. There was a corridor with several locked doors, but I didn’t get a chance to check any.”

For the first time, he realized she’d come in through a side door, not the elevator he had used. “How did you get in here anyway?”

“The tunnels.”

He drew back just enough to look down at her. “You’re kidding, right?”

She shook her head. “A friend at the city got me a blueprint. From there I just had to jimmy a lock into the boiler room.”

“Jimmy a lock,” he muttered, looking over her head. “I don’t know many girls who can do that. And I know even fewer who’d go into those tunnels alone.”

“Well, I’m not a normal girl.”

“No kidding.”

A smug little smile curled the edges of her lips. One he liked too damn much.

They swayed to the music for several more minutes, neither speaking, and neither making any move to pull apart. And damn but she felt good. It’d been so long since he was this close to a woman he was attracted to, he’d nearly forgotten how great it could feel.

“So our plan is to blend in with the crowd back there, sneak off and find the girl, then what? How were you planning to get her out of here?”

“I haven’t figured that out yet.”

She drew back and looked up at him with surprise. “Seriously? That’s how people get caught.”

“I was planning to wing it.”

She laughed and slid in close again. “I don’t know many guys who could wing that. And I know even fewer who would risk their life for someone they don’t even know.”

“Yeah, well. I’m not like most guys.”

She drew back and looked up at him again, only this time there was no surprise in her eyes. Only warmth. A warmth that lit off a host of butterflies in his stomach. “I know. You’re Robin Hood. I’m still not sure how or why, but I am sure if you’d told me that from the start, I wouldn’t have screwed up your plans the other night. I also wouldn’t have been so rude.”

Shock hit him. That she knew who he was. That she was basically apologizing. But it was overridden by a heat that spread all through his body, making him hot, making him crave things he shouldn’t be craving. “You weren’t that bad.”

“Oh please.” She rolled her eyes and pursed her lips in such an adorable way he itched to kiss the sarcastic expression from her face. “You thought I was a crazed man-hater when we met.”

“Well . . . maybe not crazed.”

She laughed and smacked her clutch against his shoulder. “Careful, buddy.”

His lips twisted into a smile—the first full smile he could remember feeling in months—no, years. “Hey, watch it. That kind of stuff’s restricted to the back rooms.”

Her eyes widened just a touch. “Please tell me that is not what’s back there. A little raunchiness I can handle, but the whole BDSM thing is not my scene.”

A laugh tumbled from his lips—something else he hadn’t done in years. “I think you’re safe. BDSM night is on Thursdays.”

She sent him another of those adorable little frowns. “You’d better be joking.”

He was. And damn, but it felt good to have something to joke about.

She sighed and relaxed against him as they swayed a little more, each growing more comfortable against each other. After several bars of the music, she said, “So we find the girl and make for the tunnels.”

“Yeah.” It was as good a plan as any. But he suddenly wasn’t ready to put it into motion. He wanted to stay here, doing just this a little while longer.

“I guess we should probably get on with it, then.”

He swallowed the lump in his throat. “Yeah, I guess so.”

Neither made any move to pull away.

“McClane?”

“Rusty.”

“Rusty,” she repeated with a warmth in her voice that told him she liked saying his name. “I was wrong about you. I’m not usually wrong about people, but I’m not above admitting my faults. Whatever happens back there, I just want you to know that I’ve got your back.”

Before topping multiple bestseller lists—including those of the New York Times, USA Today, and the Wall Street Journal—Elisabeth Naughton taught middle school science. A voracious reader, she soon discovered she had a knack for creating stories with a chemistry of their own. The spark turned into a flame, and Naughton now writes full-time. Besides topping bestseller lists, her books have been nominated for some of the industry’s most prestigious awards, such as the RITA® and Golden Heart Awards from Romance Writers of America, the Australian Romance Reader Awards, and the Golden Leaf Award. When not dreaming up new stories, Naughton can be found spending time with her husband and three children in their western Oregon home.

Follow Elisabeth: Facebook / Goodreads / Website / Twitter

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Surrender /Undone (House of Sin Series) by Elisabeth Naughton-Review & Excerpt Tour

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SURRENDER (House of Sin Novella / 1001 Dark Nights) by Elisabeth Naughton-Review and Excerpt Tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 12, 2018

The leaders of my House want her dead.

The men I’ve secretly aligned myself with want her punished for screwing up their coup.

I’ve been sent by both to deal with her, but one look at the feisty redhead and I’ve got plans of my own.

Before I carry out anyone else’s orders, she’s going to give me what I want. And only when I’m satisfied will I decide if she lives or dies.

Depending, of course, on just how easily she surrenders…

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

••••••••••••••

REVIEW: SURRENDER is a prequel novella in Elisabeth Naughton’s contemporary, adult HOUSE OF SIN erotic, romance series, and the latest instalment in the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights series. This is Felicity Merrick, and Marco Romero’s story line. SURRENDER can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary, although I recommend reading the original House of Sin series for backstory and cohesion. Felicity and Marco were first introduced in the author’s House of Sin series focusing on Luc and Natalie.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Marco and Felicity) SURRENDER reveals some of the backstory between Felicity Merrick, of House Merrick, and Marco Romero of House Salvatici, two Houses within the powerful Entente. Known for their power, control and oft times acts of savagery and brutality, the Houses of the Entente battle for supremacy using their members including Marco and Felicity but our couple work to protect the most vulnerable, against the rules of the people in charge. SURRENDER focuses on the how and why of Marco and Felicity, and their first steps towards securing the safety of others.

SURRENDER is a quick read; a sexy and sassy look at two people caught up in the violence and ruthlessness of a centuries-old system built upon power and control. The character driven premise is energetic; the romance is passionate and fated; the characters are colorful and inspiring.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Forbidden
Deceived
Undone (see below)
Surrender

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

_________

UNDONE
(House of Sin #3)
by Elisabeth Naughton
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, dark, romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 5, 2018

Behind the doors of the House of Sin, no one is safe…

I love him. It’s the only truth that matters now.

I’ve cast my old life aside and given myself fully to his wants and desires, to the fire he alone ignites inside me. And together, we’ve found strength and salvation in each other.

But there are evil forces who will forever see me as a threat that must be undone. I trust that our love can withstand any test, but I can’t ignore the growing shadows lurking beyond our door.

Because I understand now that those shadows are not waiting to destroy me as I once feared. They’ve come for him. To steal him away from me for good. And to finally and completely engulf him in a sinister world he’s eluded for so long.

In the inescapable darkness of the House of Sin

••••••••••••••

REVIEW: UNDONE is the third instalment in Elisabeth Naughton’s contemporary, adult HOUSE OF SIN erotic, dark romantic suspense series focusing on twenty-four year old, American Natalie James, and thirty-two year old Italian businessman Luciano ‘Luc’ Salvatici. UNDONE should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up immediately after the events of book two DECEIVED.

NOTE: Due to the story line content, there may be some triggers for more sensitive readers including strong language, and graphic scenes of rape, torture, and abuse.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Luc and Natalie) UNDONE follows the battle between Luciano Salvatici, and the House of Salvatici, one of the five powerful Houses of the Entente (informal alliance) in positions of control. Hundreds of years of deviance, power and sacrifice have culminated in a struggle between good and evil wherein evil will continue to reign unless the right man steps into the job. Hoping to protect the woman he loves Luc Salvatici will make a decision that could ultimately destroy his relationship with Natalie, and thusly any hopes for a happily ever after.

Throughout the story line Luc and Natalie will come face to face with the monster of their dreams. Luc’s attempts to protect Natalie from harm cease the moment he gives himself over to the House of Salvatici. Our couple will be caught up in a world of evil and deviance, power and control. No one is safe including loved ones and family; allegiance and honor are at the heart of centuries of dark secrets, and immoral and malevolent acts of brutality and corruption.

UNDONE is a vastly dark and passionate, heart breaking story of one family’s spiral of damnable acts of vicious behaviour. Elisabeth Naughton pulls the reader into the ultimate story of betrayal and horror, and the path our hero must navigate to save them all. The premise is edgy, riveting and dramatic; the characters are charismatic and inspiring; the romance is provocative and intense.

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Reviewed by Sandy

She was temptation personified. Everything I was not supposed to be enticed by. And yet, one look at her pale skin, blond hair, and deep brown eyes behind that butterfly mask, and I knew I had to have her.
Not just because she was my target. Oh, this yearning had nothing to do with that. As I studied her across the ballroom in the skimpy black dress that showed off her tiny waist, voluptuous chest, and shapely ass, a fire built inside me, one that burned hotter and stronger than the reason I was here.
She was the sexiest thing I’d seen in all my thirty years, even with that ridiculous wig and those fake contacts. And before this night was over, I was going to feel those sexy legs wrap around my waist and draw me in. I would hear her scream my name as she surrendered to me…even if the name she screamed wasn’t really mine.
I crossed the black and white checked floor toward her, unable to stay still by the column where I’d been watching the masquerade party in the shadows for the last hour. The room was filled with wealthy men and the women they preyed upon, all hiding their identities as they met up, paired off, disappearing to the lower levels of the mansion for whatever debauched activities they could imagine. I was already considering which room I would take her to. Would hers be a high-pitched scream? The kind that threatened to shatter glass? Or a low, throaty sound that vibrated through every cell in my body and triggered my own release?
My mission where she was concerned was obvious. She was the eldest child of the head of House Merrick, centered in the U.K., one of the five main Houses spread across Europe that made up the Entente. The other Houses were in Germany, France, Spain, and Italy. For over a thousand years, the Entente had been controlling the world from the shadows—manipulating world governments, militaries, even currencies and economies all for their gain. Most people didn’t know they existed. Those that suspected something nefarious was going on behind the scenes were labeled conspiracy nuts. This woman, though, was making waves for the Entente without her father’s knowledge. She was part of what had been labeled the Resistance—those working to undermine the Entente and destroy its power. And my House—House Salvatici in Italy—wanted her stopped before she ruined everything.

Before topping multiple bestseller lists—including those of the New York Times, USA Today, and the Wall Street Journal—Elisabeth Naughton taught middle school science. A voracious reader, she soon discovered she had a knack for creating stories with a chemistry of their own. The spark turned into a flame, and Naughton now writes full-time. Besides topping bestseller lists, her books have been nominated for some of the industry’s most prestigious awards, such as the RITA® and Golden Heart Awards from Romance Writers of America, the Australian Romance Reader Awards, and the Golden Leaf Award. When not dreaming up new stories, Naughton can be found spending time with her husband and three children in their western Oregon home.

Follow Elisabeth: Facebook / Goodreads / Website / Twitter

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Deceived (House of Sin #2) by Elisabeth Naughton-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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DECEIVED (House of Sin #2) by Elisabeth Naughton-Review Excerpt and Giveaway

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Add to your GOODREADS shelf.

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 15, 2018

Some doors were never meant to be opened…

I made a fateful mistake. I should never have peeked behind the doors into his forbidden world.

But I did, and now I’m a prisoner. Trapped by the man I thought loved. The man I once foolishly trusted; the man who, despite his lies and deception, I continue to crave.

He can melt my resolve with one rough, whispered demand, and I feel myself giving in to the desire he still stirs inside me. And yet, if I want to survive, I must find a way to escape. Because if I don’t, I’m afraid I’ll be consumed by a shadowy world that will ultimately destroy me.

Lost forever in his wicked House of Sin

••••••••

REVIEW: DECEIVED is the second instalment in Elisabeth Naughton’s contemporary, adult HOUSE OF SIN dark, erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on twenty-four year old, American Natalie James, and thirty-two year old Italian businessman Luciano Salvatici. DECEIVED should not be read as a stand alone as if picks up immediately following the events of book on FORBIDDEN.

NOTE: Due to the story line content, there may be some triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Natalie and Luc) DECEIVED continues to focus on the struggling relationship between twenty-four year old, American Natalie James, and thirty-two year old Italian businessman Luciano Salvatici. A virtual prisoner of the man that she loves Natalie finds herself caught between hatred and love as she is whisked to places unknown in an effort to save her life. The House of Salvatici in Italy, and the people in control stop at nothing to ensure the purity of the line including the death and destruction of their own. As Luc is pulled deeper into a world of madness, depravity and greed, Natalie realizes there may be no hope or end in sight. Heir to the House of Salvatici, Luc hopes to one day set changes into motion but changes later will not save the people he loves, now.

DECEIVED is a dark romance of family honor, deception, betrayal and fear. Hundreds of years of deviance, influence and control have pushed the five ruling Houses into a position of ultimate power such that our hero knows to protect the woman he loves sacrifices are made including the death of one of their own.

DECEIVED reveals the story of a darkened, twisted history of atrocities and wickedness, monstrous acts of condemnation and the inhumanity of power and greed; of one man’s fight to save the woman he loves, and one woman’s struggle to survive at all costs. Heartbreaking and intriguing, DECEIVED exposes the savage nature of the House of Salvatici, and the lengths, of which, the family will go to protect the secrets that keep buried centuries of sin, vile behavior and immorality.

Elisabeth Naughton pulls the reader into an intense, thrilling and erotic ride; an edgy and dramatic tale of misogyny and questionable acts of deviance and horror that will have you questioning the reality of the people in charge.

DECEIVED ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

Click HERE to read Sandy’s review of book one-FORBIDDEN

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

NOTE: The excerpt is intended for mature readers 18+ due to strong language and content.

 

Footsteps sounded outside my door. My wide-eyed gaze shot in that direction, and my pulse went stratospheric. The door pushed inward. Then I saw Luc leaning against the doorjamb, his muscular body draped in faded jeans and a loose black T-shirt, his dark hair mussed as if he’d run his hands through it several times, his unique gray eyes as stormy and intimidating as ever.
My heart bumped, and a familiar warmth spread through my chest when I remembered this was my Luc. The man who’d taken control of my body and awakened my heart with just one touch. The man who’d rearranged every one of my priorities. The man who’d saved my life on more than one occasion.
But just as quickly I remembered that he was also the man whose family was involved in multiple illicit activities throughout Europe, from drug trafficking, to prostitution, to even, and most horrifyingly, the creation of beta slaves—women whose sole purpose was to serve the depraved needs of the men in his House. And, I remembered, he was also the man who’d followed me to Idaho after I’d run from him, who’d drugged me and, now obviously, abducted me.
Everything inside me hardened like ice.
His eyes locked on mine, but they weren’t the warm, familiar eyes I remembered from our steamy time together in Italy. No, the second his gaze met mine, his stormy eyes flattened in a way that told me he was not, and never had been, the man I’d foolishly let myself fall in love with.
“You’re finally awake,” he said in his clipped Italian accent. “That’s good because we have a lot to talk about, wife.”
For a heartbeat, I didn’t move. Then that word—wife—hit me like a two-by-four to the forehead, and my gaze dropped to his left hand, resting against his hip. A thick black band encircled his ring finger.
Sickness shot up my throat, and my fingers curled into the stucco at my back. “No,” I managed in a shaky voice. “You didn’t.”
But even before the words were out of my mouth, visions flickered in my mind again. Visions of the man in the black suit telling me all that was left was the paperwork. And then Luc whispering I’d done well while he wrapped his thick arm around my waist to hold me up and drew my fingers toward a crisp white paper where he urged me to sloppily sign my name next to his.
“I didn’t.” Luc’s square jaw turned to a slice of steel beneath the scruff on his skin as he straightened from the doorjamb. “We did. And I suggest you get used to it, Mrs. Salvatici, because we’re not leaving here until you do.”
Panic turned to a rage I couldn’t control, coloring everything red. He thought he could drug me, kidnap me, force me into a marriage I didn’t want, and that I’d just get used to it?
No.
Hell no.
My gaze shifted to the sliding glass door at my side. And seeing my one chance for freedom, I didn’t even hesitate to reach for it.
“Natalie,” he warned in a hard voice at my back, “I wouldn’t step out that door if I were you.”
“Fuck you, Luc.” I shoved the door open and moved out into the warm tropical air.
And then I ran, exactly as I should have done the moment I met Luciano Salvatici.


 

Before topping multiple bestseller lists—including those of the New York Times, USA Today, and the Wall Street Journal—Elisabeth Naughton taught middle school science. A voracious reader, she soon discovered she had a knack for creating stories with a chemistry of their own. The spark turned into a flame, and Naughton now writes full-time. Besides topping bestseller lists, her books have been nominated for some of the industry’s most prestigious awards, such as the RITA® and Golden Heart Awards from Romance Writers of America, the Australian Romance Reader Awards, and the Golden Leaf Award. When not dreaming up new stories, Naughton can be found spending time with her husband and three children in their western Oregon home.

Follow Elisabeth: Facebook / Goodreads / Website / Twitter

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Forbidden (House of Sin #1) by Elisabeth Naughton-a review

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FORBIDDEN (House of Sin #1) by Elisabeth Naughton-a review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 24, 2018

She has no idea what lurks behind the forbidden doors of the House of Sin…

He is temptation. Forbidden fruit. A craving I can’t seem to resist.

I went after him in search of answers, certain he had blood on his hands. Now I’ve fallen prey to his seductive looks and commanding charisma.

I know he is a threat. He’s entwined in a dangerous world I don’t understand. But even that doesn’t stop me from aching for his touch, for the taste of his wicked lips.

Before I can truly surrender to the fire smoldering between us, I need to know more. I have to see behind the doors he keeps firmly locked.

I need to discover what he’s hiding in the shadowy world known as the House of Sin…

**WARNING!**
This book is very sexy, very dark, and very addictive! Features a mysterious hero with a dangerous secret. This is a big story that can’t be told in only one book so there is a cliffhanger – but never fear, book two releases three weeks later. The release schedule is as follows:

Books in the House of Sin Series:
FORBIDDEN — Book 1 — April 24, 2018
DECEIVED — Book 2 — May 15, 2018
UNDONE — Book 3 – June 5, 2018

•••••••••

REVIEW: FORBIDDEN is the first instalment in Elisabeth Naughton’s contemporary, adult HOUSE OF SIN dark, erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on twenty-four year old, American Natalie James, and thirty-two year old Italian businessman Luciano Salvatici’s story line.

NOTE: Due to the story line content, there may be some triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Luc and Natalie) FORBIDDEN is a dark, erotic romance story line that follows the building but contemptuous relationship between Luc Salvatici and Natalie James. Natalie James have never been to New York but a interview with the House of Salvatici and its fashion magazine COVET meant Natalie would have access to everything her best friend Elena had so cryptically mentioned in the weeks before her sudden death. Meeting Luciano Salvatici (aka the beast) found our heroine unwittingly drawn to the dark and mysterious CEO, a man whose instant dislike for Natalie disguised an urgency to protect her from the monsters within. What ensues is the acrimonious but highly sexual relationship between Luc and Natalie, and the fall-out as the Salvatici family history demands payment and submission from all those who dare to seek the truth.

FORBIDDEN is a story that covertly and slowly reveals a dark and dangerous family secret going back hundreds of years that continues go grow in strength to the present day. The blackened, sexual nature of the family history threatens all those who dare the cross their paths, including our heroine who has inadvertently stumbled down the rabbit hole into a world that is about to destroy her life. Warned numerous times not to tread outside of the lines, our heroine’s constant need to prove she was beyond the reach of mere, mortal men finds herself in the line of fire, threatening her very existence and the heart she lost to Luciano Salvatici.

Elisabeth Naughton pulls the reader into a shadow society that plays by its own rules; a family so deeply immersed into domination, power and control their own son struggles to move on from the past. The premise is dark, dramatic, erotic and intriguing; the characters are colorful, charismatic, and astonishing; the romance is fated, passionate and tragic. FORBIDDEN is a familiar story line but a story line I am desperate to see follow through.

Copy supplied for review by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Protected (Deadly Secrets #3) by Elisabeth Naughton-a review

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PROTECTED (Deadly Secrets #3) by Elisabeth Naughton-a review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / Chapters Indigo /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 20, 2018

Up-and-coming designer Kelsey McClane is on the cusp of success. Recently divorced, she should be enjoying her newfound freedom and glamorous future. Instead, she’s living in fear of the past. When she returns home to Portland on a press tour, danger creeps closer than ever. As threatening messages from her bitter ex-husband leave her vulnerable, a new man in her life makes her feel protected.

Former Army Ranger turned security professional Hunter O’Donnell is hired to guard Kelsey. When a shattering explosion rocks her world, Kelsey’s ex is the prime suspect, but Hunter speculates there’s more to the situation than Kelsey’s letting on. Intent on keeping her safe, he delves into Kelsey’s past. As the two work together to unmask her stalker’s identity, a fire ignites between them that they both struggle to contain.

While the investigation proceeds, it draws them closer not only to each other but also to a lethal plot that’s been in the works behind their backs. And with each new secret unveiled, it’s not just temptation putting them at risk—it’s a madman who will not stop until Kelsey is dead.

••••••••

REVIEW: PROTECTED is the third instalment in Elisabeth Naughton’s contemporary, adult DEADLY SECRETS romantic, suspense series focusing on the four adopted McClane siblings (Ethan, Alec, Kelsey, Rusty) who are forced to confront their childhood demons. This is up and coming designer Kelsey McClane, and former Army Ranger/security specialist Hunter O’Donnell’s story line. PROTECTED can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

NOTE: For fans of Darcy Burke, there is a slight cross-over with the author’s Ribbon Ridge series with the mention of the Archer sextuplet, Evan and Alaina Archer, and the Alex Hotel.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Kelsey and Hunter) PROTECTED follows the safety and protection of designer Kelsey McClane following an explosion that forced our heroine, and her personal security guard and her brother Alec’s (Gone #2) best friend Hunter O’Donnell into hiding. A series of threatening texts, wiretaps and perfectly timed, clandestine but anonymous photos of our couple, from an unknown source, reveal a personal connection to our story line heroine but a connection that Kelsey knew nothing about. What ensues is the friends to lovers/best friend’s little sister building relationship between Kelsey and Hunter, and the potential fall-out when Kelsey’s past seeks retribution for a perceived series of sins not of her making.

PROTECTED is a story of suspense, mystery, retribution and revenge. Kelsey was given up for adoption at the age of two but never knew her birth mother, or the answers to her troubled beginnings. Hunter has always considered Kelsey off-limits; his best friend’s little sister, but a woman with whom he would grow to love. Kelsey and Hunter’s demons ride close to the surface; trust is an issue both struggle to accept. The $ex scenes are intimate and intense; the sexual chemistry is palpable but Hunter struggles between his friendship with Alec and the McClane family, and his ability to protect the woman with whom he is falling in love.

All of Kelsey’s siblings play secondary and supporting roles including Ethan, Alec and Rusty. We are introduced to Kelsey’s ex-husband Julian Benedict, a man obsessed with our story line heroine; and Hunter’s ex-girlfriend Genevieve who refuses to accept that she is no longer wanted. The requisite evil has many faces who add a twist or two to the story line mystery.

PROTECTED is a complex tale between the past and the present; vengeance against a woman caught totally unaware; and a man who battles his attraction to a woman he has sworn to protect. The premise is action packed, intriguing and entertaining; the romance is seductive and passionate; the characters are broken, charismatic and energetic.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Repressed
Gone
Protected

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Before topping multiple bestseller lists—including those of the New York Times, USA Today, and the Wall Street Journal—Elisabeth Naughton taught middle school science. A voracious reader, she soon discovered she had a knack for creating stories with a chemistry of their own. The spark turned into a flame, and Naughton now writes full-time. Besides topping bestseller lists, her books have been nominated for some of the industry’s most prestigious awards, such as the RITA® and Golden Heart Awards from Romance Writers of America, the Australian Romance Reader Awards, and the Golden Leaf Award. When not dreaming up new stories, Naughton can be found spending time with her husband and three children in their western Oregon home.

Follow Elisabeth: Facebook / Goodreads / Website / Twitter

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Hunted (Eternal Guardians 8.75 / 1001 Dark Nights) by Elisabeth Naughton-Review and Excerpt Tour

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HUNTED (Eternal Guardians 8.75 / 1001 Dark Nights) by Elisabeth Naughton-Review and Excerpt Tour

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HUNTED
Eternal Guardians 8.75 / 1001 Dark Nights
by Elisabeth Naughton
Release Date: June 27, 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, fantasy romance

Hunted

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 27, 2017

Erebus – Dark in every sense of the word, a skilled and lethal warrior, and sinfully sexy by design.

Since the dawn of modern man, Erebus was Hades’ secret weapon in the war between the immortal realms. Until Hades lost the minor god in a bet to his older brother Zeus. For the last hundred years, Erebus has trained Zeus’s Siren warriors in warfare and the sexual arts. But he’s never stopped longing for freedom. For a life filled with choice. And lately, he also longs for one Siren who entranced him during their steamy seduction sessions. A nymph he quickly became obsessed with and who was ripped from his grasp when her seduction training was complete. One he’s just learned Zeus has marked for death because she failed the last Siren test.

Before Erebus can intercede on the nymph’s behalf, she escapes Olympus and flees into the human realm. In a fit of rage, Zeus commands Erebus to hunt her down and kill her. Erebus sees his opportunity to finally go after what he wants, but he’s torn. Freedom means nothing if the Siren at the center of his fantasies doesn’t truly crave him back. Because defying the gods will unleash the fury of Olympus, and if he chooses her over his duty, whether she joins him in exile or not, the hunter will become the hunted.

•••••••••

REVIEW: HUNTED by Elisabeth is the latest installment (#8.75) in Elisabeth Naughton’s contemporary, adult ETERNAL GUARDIANS paranormal, romance series based in Greek mythology, prophecy and history, as well as the latest addition to the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights series. The modern day heroes –the Argonauts-are descended from the Gods of Olympus whom fate has decreed the Eternal Guardians on Earth. This is the god of darkness Erebus, and siren/nymph Seraphine’s (Sera) story line. HUNTED can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order as there is an ongoing theme and story line running throughout.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Erebus and Sera) HUNTED is a second chance story line that focuses on the rekindling romance between Erebus and Sera, and the Sera’s battle to stay one step ahead of Zeus. Eighteen months earlier Sera had been trained in the art of seduction by the man who would steal her heart-Erebus- but Erebus made no promised for the future as his seduction of the Siren was all a part of the woman’s siren training. Fast forward to present day wherein Erebus has been ordered to retrieve a wayward Siren who had stolen something that Zeus wanted back. Enter Seraphine-the woman Erebus has not forgotten-and Erebus’s ultimate target. What ensues is the rebuilding relationship between Erebus and Sera, and the couple’s battle to remain together in spite of their promise and their pledge. Entering into the world of the Eternal guardian warriors-the Argonauts- finds our couple at odds as to their future, and the difficult task placed upon our hero’s head. Erebus knows that to defy Zeus’s command he will be unable to return to Olympus and remaining behind will place another target on his back.

HUNTED continues to follow Zeus’s struggle to complete the Orb of Kronus- a circular disk, designed by Prometheus, that holds all four elements, and the deity who is in possession of the Orb has the ability to start the war to end all wars. Zeus had previously stolen the Orb of Kronus from the Argoleans but the water element remains elusive, and Zeus suspects is has been hidden in Argolea, where the Olympians –and thusly Zeus- are unable to cross.

The character and world development is colorful and detailed-the ongoing premise and story line regarding the Orb of Kronus is intricate and detailed; the developing suspense is memorable and impressive.

HUNTED is a fast paced story line steeped in Greek mythology and prophecy blended into a modern day tale of gods seeking power and revenge against those they consider less than worthy. Several of the previous story line couples, Argonauts and gods play secondary and supporting roles-Erebus and Sera have found a permanent home with the Eternal Guardians and the Argonauts. The premise is imaginative and exciting; the romance is passionate, erotic and fated; the characters are colorful, inspiring and intense. HUNTED and the ETERNAL GUARDIANS series will captivate your imagination.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Hunted Teaser

excerpt

“You’re okay, Sera. I’ve got you. I’m going to get you out of here.”
Long minutes passed where she continued to tremble, and it felt as if his heart had taken up permanent residency in his throat. But slowly, as the heat of his body seeped into hers, her shakes slowly subsided, and she relaxed against him. He took that as a good sign. Lifting the shirt from her wound, he breathed easier when he saw the blood flow had lessened. She was going to have a nice-sized goose egg, but swelling outward from the impact was better than swelling inside the brain, and he knew that was an even better sign.
His pulse inched down. Glancing at her familiar face resting against his shoulder, he brushed a lock of wet hair back from her cheek, and as he did something warm and sweet slid through his chest. An emotion he hadn’t felt before. A yearning that wasn’t just sexual.
The feeling was so strong, so foreign, it threw him off kilter. He didn’t have emotions. He was a god who’d learned long ago that emotions were dangerous. And yet… Somehow he recognized the feelings taking up space inside him now had been spawned by fear. Not fear that she was going to drop to her death and that he was going to miss out on the rough, hot sex he’d been envisioning since the moment he’d recognized her in the woods, but fear that something bad would happen to her. That he’d never see her again. That he would lose her.
Sweat broke out along his forehead, and an odd tingle started in his chest. He told himself it was her heat making him feel weird. Not denial. Not anything else. But even that didn’t sound right, and he had no idea what the hell he was supposed to do next.
“Sera.” The word was a whisper, a plea, a demand. “Sera, wake up and look at me.” He needed to see her eyes. Needed her to explain what was happening to him. Needed to know if she felt it too.
She didn’t move. He knew she was breathing. Knew she wasn’t in any real danger. But the danger to him was suddenly all he could focus on. “Agápi. Open your eyes. Look at me, baby.”
She sighed and snuggled closer. But the reaction didn’t fire him up and make him ache to take her as he expected. It brought a calm over him that was more unsettling than the fear he’d felt before.
He didn’t know what was happening.

About The Author Black and White

Follow Elisabeth: Facebook / Goodreads / Website / Twitter

Elisabeth NaughtonBefore topping multiple bestseller lists—including those of the New York Times, USA Today, and the Wall Street Journal—Elisabeth Naughton taught middle school science. A voracious reader, she soon discovered she had a knack for creating stories with a chemistry of their own. The spark turned into a flame, and Naughton now writes full-time. Besides topping bestseller lists, her books have been nominated for some of the industry’s most prestigious awards, such as the RITA and Golden Heart Awards from Romance Writers of America, the Australian Romance Reader Awards, and the Golden Leaf Award. When not dreaming up new stories, Naughton can be found spending time with her husband and three children in their western Oregon home.

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Rising Storm Season 2 (Episodes 1-8) -Review and Book Tour

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Rising Storm Season 2 (Episodes 1-8) -Review and Book tour

Rising Storm Banner

RISING STORM
Season 2 Episodes 1-8

Rising Storm Season 2

It is always difficult to review serial story lines but I was given the opportunity to read all eight installments in a single setting. Serials written by one author rarely change in tone or structure from one installment to the next, and yet, this multi-authored serial felt as though it was written by one author alone. The blending between installments was smooth and even; effortless and efficient in presentation.

I recommend reading the serial in order beginning with Season One before venturing into Season Two-there are too many stories and questions revealed with each consecutive installment.

RISING STORM Season two continued to follow the soap-opera stylings of the late night serials that focused on fame, fortune, power and control. The people of Storm Texas were caught up in a bubble of hatred, secrets, lies and betrayal such that they couldn’t see past the pain and suffering of several of their own. The eight installments of Season Two, like Season One, flowed smoothly between the numerous authors’s writing styles; there were no obvious hiccups or problems with the story line plot, structure, or premise.

Check out my synopsis and thoughts on all eight installment

Rising Storm Season 1

NOTE: For anyone who hasn’t read RISING STORM Season 1 Bundle Episodes 1-8-it is available for a limited time for ONLY 99¢ at : Amazon.com / Amazon.ca /

____________________

Secrets, Sex and Scandals …

Welcome to Storm, Texas…

A town nestled among rolling hills and painted with vibrant wildflowers, where everything seems like perfection.

But there are secrets beneath the facade.

Dark and powerful secrets. The kind that can destroy lives and tear families apart. That can cut through a town like a tempest, leaving jealousy and destruction in its wake, along with shattered hopes and broken dreams.

Rising Storm is a soap-opera style drama. A powerful series conceived by Julie Kenner and Dee Davis, full of scandal, deceit, romance, passion, and secrets.

…get caught in the storm!

RELEASE DATE: September 27, 2016

______________

AGAINST THE WIND
Rising Storm Season 2, Episode 1
by Rebecca Zanetti

Visit Rebecca Zanetti’s website ** Facebook ** Twitter ** Pinterest

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon UK / Amazon AU

As Tate Johnson works to find a balance between his ambitions for political office and the fallout of his brother’s betrayal, Zeke is confronted with his brother Chase’s return home. And while Bryce and Tara Douglas try to hold onto their marriage, Kristin continues to entice Travis into breaking his vows…

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: AGAINST THE WIND is the first installment in Season Two of the multi-authored novella serial RISING STORM focusing on the people of Storm Texas-their loves, their lies, and their dark and dangerous secrets.

NOTE: Before reading RISING STORM Season two I highly recommend reading RISING STORM Season one where all of the major players and the original premise are revealed. With the large ensemble cast of characters there are many story lines that interconnect and cross over.

AGAINST THE WIND follows Tate and Tucker Johnson as their sibling rivalry and bitter fall out over Hannah comes to blows in the center of town. We are also witness to Ginnie’s ongoing struggles as she endeavors to keep her head up when most of the town of Storm Texas is trying to destroy what is left of her heart, while Joanne Alvarez must face reality and the backlash from her daughter Dakota’s affair with the incumbent Senator Rush, and the rumors that continue to surface about her missing husband.

AGAINST THE WIND and the Rising Storm series is a soap opera-esque novella serial similar in content to Peyton Place where betrayal and lies hide a multitude of sins behind locked doors and closed curtains. Rebecca Zanetti’s AGAINST THE WIND re-introduces the characters, the backstories, and the potential ramifications and fall out for the people of Storm Texas when secrets and lies are slowly revealed.

_____________

STORM WARNING
Rising Storm Season 2, Episode 2
by Larissa Ione

Visit Larissa Ione’s website**Facebook ** Twitter

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon UK/ Amazon AU

As Joanne Alvarez settles into life without Hector, her children still struggle with the fallout. Marcus confronts the differences between him and Brittany, while Dakota tries to find a new equilibrium. Meanwhile, the Johnson’s grapple with war between two sets of brothers, and Ian Briggs rides into town…

••••••

REVIEW: STORM WARNING is the second installment in the multi-authored RISING STORM novella serial focusing on the town and people of Storm Texas- their loves, their lies, and their dark and dangerous secrets.

IN this installment we are introduced to Ian Briggs from Montana, the ranch owner and Marcus’s ‘father figure’ and friend. Ian takes a special interest in Marisol and the feeling may be mutual. Ian’s plans for Storm Texas may become more permanent with a surprise offer for Marcus.

The Johnson’s and Anna Mae are having a difficult time welcoming back wayward Uncle Chase-a man whose return to Storm comes with secrets and potential heartbreak. And the Johnson seat of power extends beyond the local land.

The Alvarez family is still struggling with Dakota’s affair, and Marcus’s relationship with the Senator’s daughter has made him the prime target of the Rush’s family vengeful attacks; Hector Alvarez has contact with someone close.

STORM WARNING is a revealing installment as the building animosity towards Ian Briggs begins to take shape. The return of Chase Johnson comes with an unpleasant surprise, and Hector Alvarez is gunning for his wife and anyone who stands in his way; Brittany and Marcus’s relationship is threatened by gossip and tabloid rumors; and Tate Johnson in currently in bed with the devil and may easily get burned. Plenty of action and drama, conflict and angst as the town of Texas prepares for another storm.

______________

BRAVE THE STORM
Rising Storm Season 2 Episode 3
by Lisa Mondello

Visit Lisa Mondello’s website / Facebook

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon UK / Amazon AU

As Senator Rush’s poll numbers free fall, Marylee tries to drive a wedge between Brittany and Marcus. Across town, Anna Mae and Chase dance toward reconciliation. Ginny longs for Logan, while he fights against Sebastian’s maneuvering. And Hector, newly freed from prison, heads back to Storm…

•••••••••

REVIEW: BRAVE THE STORM by Lisa Mondello is the third installment in the multi-authored RISING STORM (Season two) novella serial focusing on the people and town of Storm Texas.

Focusing on Chase Johnson’s return to Storm Texas, Anna Mae Prager reminisces about what could have been and what never will be. Chase is a man whose future is uncertain but a future he hopes to spend with the woman he loves. Chase reveals the truth behind his return to Storm, and in doing so reconnects with the brother he hasn’t seen in several years.

Rush matriarch Marylee continues to work behind the scenes to ensure her son’s future in the Senate by destroying Marcus’s reputation and driving a wedge between he and Brittany. Hoping to gather more votes Senator Rush tries to convince Logan that his position is with the Rush campaign. And Hector Alvarez makes plans for his return to Storm.

BRAVE THE STORM reveals some of the history between Chase and Anna Mae, and the loss that was far greater than Chase’s absence. The gossip continues; the manipulation unfolds; the potential for disaster is around the corner.

________________

LIGHTNING STRIKES
Rising Storm Season 2 Episode 4
by Lexi Blake

Visit Lexi Blake’s website **Facebook ** Twitter

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon UK / Amazon AU

As Ian Briggs begins to fall for Marisol, Joanne and Dillon also grow closer. Joanne’s new confidence spreads to Dakota but Hector’s return upends everything. A public confrontation between Marcus and Hector endangers his relationship with Brittany, and Dakota reverts to form. Meanwhile, the Senator threatens Ginny and the baby…

••••••••

REVIEW: LIGHTNING STRIKES by Lexi Blake is the fourth installment in the multi-authored RISING STORM novella serial focusing on the people and town of Storm, Texas.

Hector Alvarez has returned to Storm and with it the hidden threats towards his long-suffering wife, and the people of Storm Texas. Joanne Alvarez suffers from abused spouse syndrome, and makes every excuse to defend her husband’s actions and the potential life threatening actions she is about to endure. While Hector’s son Marcus, Ian Briggs, and the sheriff stand by watching Joanne cave into her husband’s demands, anxiety fills the town of Storm with the return of Hector Alvarez. Senator Rush quietly threatens to destroy Ginny and her unborn child.

LIGHTNING STRIKES is an angst filled installment as the reader is pulled into the frightening world of spousal abuse and the inability or refusal of people to get involved. The difficulty increases when Dakota Alvarez defends her father’s abuse making her mother more of a loser in everybody’s eyes.

________________

FIRE AND RAIN
Rising Storm Season 2 Episode 5
by R.K. Lilley

Visit R.K. Lilley’s website**Facebook ** Twitter ** Pinterest

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon UK / Amazon AU

As Celeste Salt continues to unravel in the wake of Jacob’s death, Travis grows closer with Kristin. Lacey realizes the error of her ways but is afraid it’s too late for reconciliation with her friends. Marcus and Brittany struggle with the continued fallout of Hector’s return, while Chase and Anna Mae face some hard truths about their past…

••••••••

REVIEW: FIRE AND RAIN by R. K. Lilley is the fifth installment in the multi-authored RISING STORM novella serial focusing on the town and people of Storm, Texas.

FIRE AND RAIN follows several relationships including Travis Salt’s ongoing affair with Kristen leaving his depressed and distraught wife Celeste to suffer with the loss of her son Jacob Salt. Celeste’s grief is overwhelming and pushing away the people in her life. As Celeste spirals out of control, her family plans a failed intervention while Travis heads out of town to spend time with his mistress.

Hector Alvarez begins to reassert his authority and power over his wife Joanne while their daughter Dakota blames her mother for everything that has gone wrong in their lives. Chase Johnson reveals the truth about his diagnosis to the woman he loves and in return Anna Mae talks about the child they loss. Marcus and Brittany take their relationship to the next level knowing their time together is threatened by the Senator’s goals.

FIRE AND RAIN is once again filled with anxiety and conflict; spousal abuse; and infidelity in a town where everyone is focused on everyone else’s business. Hector’s return brings controversy and fear, with potential catastrophic results. The toxic family relationships are hostile and frightening.

_____________

QUIET STORM
Rising Storm Season 2 Episode 6
by Julie Kenner

Visit Julie Kenner’s website**Facebook ** Twitter

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon UK/  Amazon AU

As Mallory Alvarez and Luis Moreno grow closer, Lacey longs for forgiveness. Brittany and Marcus have a true meeting of hearts. Meanwhile, Jeffry grapples with his father’s failures and finds solace in unexpected arms. When things take a dangerous turn, Jeffry’s mother and sister, as well as his friends, unite behind him as the Senator threatens his son…

••••••••••

REVIEW: QUIET STORM by Julie Kenner is the sixth installment in the multi-authored RISING STORM novella serial focusing on the town and people of Storm, Texas.

NOTE: QUIET STORM contains some scenes of M/M sexual situations.

Lacey Salt struggles with the loss of her friends in the wake of her brother Jacob’s death, and the drama she has caused in anger and hurt. Trying to raise funds for a memorial bench Lacey faces down her fears and tries to make amends for sins of the past. Lacey’s cousin Jeffrey’s story line is starting to take shape with a reveal that is going to shock his family and the town of Storm Texas while Lacey looks to her former friends, Mallory and Luis, for help. But when the truth about Jeffry is revealed Sebastian Rush is blindsided by his wife’s declaration.

Patrick makes a decision about his non-relationship with Marisol, and in doing so looks towards the future with someone else, while Brittany expresses to Marcus her true feelings.

QUIET STORM looks at making amends, asking for forgiveness and starting anew. Jeffry’s first steps towards his new life are impressive knowing that he could lose everything when the truth is revealed. Hopefully Joanne gets help from her sister Payton as Payton takes her own steps towards a different future.

_______________

BLINDING RAIN
Rising Storm Season 2 Episode 7
by Elisabeth Naughton

Visit Elisabeth Naughton’s website**Facebook ** Twitter

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon UK / Amazon AU

As Tate Johnson struggles to deal with his brother’s relationship with Hannah, hope asserts itself in an unexpected way. With the return of Delia Burke, Logan’s old flame, Brittany and Marcus see an opportunity to help their friend. But when the evening takes an unexpected turn, Brittany finds herself doing the last thing she expected—coming face to face with Ginny…

•••••••••••

REVIEW: BLINDING RAIN by Elisabeth Naughton is the seventh installment in the multi-authored RISING STORM novella serial focusing on the top and people of Storm, Texas.

BLINDING RAIN finds Ginny Moreno facing Celeste and Sara Jane Salt, the memories of her their late son Jacob, and the possibility that the child she carries is their son’s. A former resident of Storm returns-Delia Bruce Phelps-and with it more unease for Ginny as Delia has history with Logan and is hoping to rekindle their high school romance. Meanwhile Brittany and Ginny discuss their prior friendships, their hopes for the future and memories of the past.

The Salt siblings call a family meeting trying to make Celeste and Travis understand that life goes on even in death, and that Celeste’s feud with Ginny is carrying on too long.

Mary Louise Prager saves Tate Johnson from another public display of anger towards his brother Tucker and Hannah Grossman-sibling rivalry to the nth degree. As the mayoral election begins to heat up Tucker’s anger needs to mellow before it affects his chances for office; and Mary Louise makes a suggestion that Tucker takes to heart.

BLINDING RAIN looks at love and loss; grief and letting go; forgiveness and moving forward. Memories run deep for the people of Storm Texas and not everyone is willing to give up without a fight.

____________

BLUE SKIES
Rising Storm Season 2 Episode 8
by Dee Davis

Visit Dee Davis’ website **Facebook ** Twitter

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon UK / Amazon AU

As Celeste Salt struggles to pull herself and her family together, Dillon is called to the scene of a domestic dispute where Dakota is forced to face the truth about her father. While the Johnson’s celebrate a big announcement, Ginny is rushed to the hospital where her baby’s father is finally revealed…

•••••••

REVIEW: BLUES SKIES by Dee Davis is the eighth and final installment in the multi-authored RISING STORM Season Two novella serial focusing on the town and people of Storm Texas.

BLUE SKIES focuses on recovery and acceptance for a town battered by political power, secrets and lies, betrayal and abuse.

Celeste Salt comes to terms with one aspect of her life but her grief over the death of her son is lightened with heartwarming news. While her sister Payton Rush has had enough of her husband and his controlling mother, and walks away leaving the senator on his own.

Joanne Alvarez must meet the devil one final time but not before her children see true evil with its’ familiar face. Dakota Alvarez comes to terms with her father’s abusive history when she encounters first hand the pain and suffering her mother has endured for years.

Ginny Moreno is threatened by Senator Rush but stands her ground. Going into early labor finds Ginny has more support from the people of Storm than she has had in the past few months. Logan comes to realize that he loves Ginny and she is the woman who calls to his heart.

Tate and Tucker Johnson called a tepid truce to the sibling rivalry, while Uncle Chase finally made good on a promise to the love of his life.

BLUE SKIES is the thrilling conclusion to the second season of Rising Storm. The reader is front and center to the dramatic action and suspense filled show down between goodness and light; hatred and love; power and manipulation.

Copies supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Inkslinger 2

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