Hold Me (Stark Ever After Novella) by J. Kenner-Review and Excerpt Tour

Posted on May 27, 2017 by Sandy

HOLD ME (Stark Ever After Novella) by J. Kenner-review and ecerpt tour

HOLD ME
Stark Ever After Novella
1001 Dark Nights
by J. Kenner
Release Date: May 23, 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary,erotic, romance

Hold Me

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 23, 2017

My life with Damien has never been fuller. Every day is a miracle, and every night I lose myself in the oasis of his arms.

But there are new challenges, too. Our families. Our careers. And new responsibilities that test us with unrelenting, unexpected trials.

I know we will survive—we have to. Because I cannot live without Damien by my side. But sometimes the darkness seems overwhelming, and I am terrified that the day will come when Damien cannot bring the light. And I will have to find the strength inside myself to find my way back into his arms.

••••••••••

REVIEW: HOLD ME (Stark Ever After novella) by J .Kenner is book 4.1 in the author’s adult, contemporary, STARK TRILOGY erotic, romance series , and the latest installment in the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights series of novellas. HOLD ME is the continuing story about Damien and Nikki Fairchild-Stark, and picks up approximately ten months following the events of ANCHOR ME (Stark Trilogy #4).

NOTE: If you have not read ANCHOR ME there may be some spoilers in my review.

Told from first person point of view (Nikki) HOLD ME focuses on Nikki’s foray back to work; her struggles as a new mom to give up control of her children; and the expectations from employees and clients of running a multi-million dollar technology business, Nikki and Damien are now the parents of two daughters-one biological, and one adopted, and with it comes the responsibilities and trepidations every new parent must face. With Nikki’s return to work, our heroine discovers that life has a way of changing directions throwing Nikki into a tailspin at home and away. Nikki and Damien struggle to find some balance in their life; making time for themselves doesn’t come easy.

HOLD ME is a passionate, delightful and realistic story line focusing on two people whose lives have changed in more ways than one. The premise is touching, poignant, and warm ; the characters are tender, sensitive and devoted; the romance is sensual and loving. HOLD ME is a delightful and inspiring read about family, friendship and love.

Copy supplied for review.

Reviewed by Sandy

Hold me Teaser

excerpt

I already know that Damien is running later than I am, because he’d called while I was stuck in traffic. Now I dismiss Bree for the night, then go peek in on both my girls. I want to wake them, to cuddle them close, but I let them sleep, contenting myself with watching the steady rise and fall of their little chests.
Then I take a quick shower, change into yoga pants and a T-shirt, and stretch out on our lovely iron bed, surrounded by paperwork.
That’s where I am when Damien finds me—although I’m asleep instead of busily working.
“Hey,” he says, brushing a kiss on my shoulder. “Long day?”
As I claw my way back to consciousness, he gathers my papers and sets them on the bedside table. There’s a glass of wine, too, and he hands it to me. I try to avoid alcohol since I’m breastfeeding, but I also did the research and know that a little bit isn’t a problem so long as I wait to pump or feed Anne.
“The longest,” I say, then take a grateful sip. I lean sideways against him, my back supported by the pile of pillows that rest against the wall. I give him the full rundown, the highlight of which is Eric’s surprising departure.
“You can handle continued growth,” he says, his loyalty giving me a nice warm boost of confidence. “But you’re also well-positioned to simply hold the line if that’s what you want to do. Even to downsize if it works out that way.”
I push away from him, frowning as my chest tightens uncomfortably. “What?”
“I’m just saying that you don’t have to go back to work full-throttle.”
I sit up straight. “Excuse me? Why? Because you can support us?”
“I can support us. But what I’m—”
“So I’m supposed to feel guilty about wanting to work just because you bring in billions?” Dammit, he knows how important my job is to me. How hard I’ve worked to build my business on my own, not relying on money that comes from Stark International.
He stares at me like someone might stare at a wild hyena. “That’s not what I’m saying at all.”

about the author

J.Kenner (aka Julie Kenner) is the New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly, Wall Street Journal and #1 International bestselling author of over seventy novels, novellas and short stories in a variety of genres.

Though known primarily for her award-winning and international bestselling erotic romances (including the Stark and Most Wanted series) that have reached as high as #2 on the New York Times bestseller list, JK has been writing full time for over a decade in a variety of genres including paranormal and contemporary romance, “chicklit” suspense, urban fantasy, and paranormal mommy lit.

JK has been praised by Publishers Weekly as an author with a “flair for dialogue and eccentric characterizations” and by RT Bookclub for having “cornered the market on sinfully attractive, dominant antiheroes and the women who swoon for them.” A five time finalist for Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA award, JK took home the first RITA trophy awarded in the category of erotic romance in 2014 for her novel, Claim Me (book 2 of her Stark Trilogy). Her Demon Hunting Soccer Mom series (as Julie Kenner) is currently in development with AwesomenessTV/Awestruck.

Her books have sold over three million copies and are published in over twenty languages.

In her previous career as an attorney, JK worked as a clerk on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and practiced primarily civil, entertainment and First Amendment litigation in Los Angeles and Irvine, California, as well as in Austin, Texas. She currently lives in Central Texas, with her husband, two daughters, and two rather spastic cats.

Inkslinger 2

Anchor Me (Stark Trilogy #4) by J. Kenner-Review & Excerpt Tour

Posted on April 10, 2017 by Sandy

Anchor Me (Stark Trilogy #4) by J. Kenner-Review and Excerpt Tour

ANCHOR ME
Stark Trilogy #4
by J. Kenner
Release Date: April 11, 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon. uk / B&N / KOBO / ibooks / Google Play / Amazon. Au / ibooks UK /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Dare April 11, 2017

Fourth novel in the fast-paced series including Release Me, Claim Me, and Complete Me. This sexy, emotionally charged romance continues the story of Damien Stark, the powerful multimillionaire who’s never had to take “no” for an answer, and his beloved wife Nikki Fairchild Stark, the Southern belle who only says “yes” on her own terms.

It’s a new chapter in the life of Nikki and Damien Stark …

Though shadows still haunt us, and ghosts from our past continue to threaten our happiness, my life with Damien is nothing short of perfection. He is my heart and my soul. My past and my future. He is the man who holds me together, and his love fuels my days and enchants my nights.

But when tragedy and challenge from both inside and outside the sanctity of our marriage begins to chip away at our happiness, I am forced to realize that even a perfect life can begin to crack. And if Damien and I are going to win this new battle, it will take all of our strength and love .

••••••••••••

REVIEW: ANCHOR ME is the fourth full length instalment in J. Kenner’s contemporary, adult STARK TRILOGY erotic, romance series. This is the continuing story of billionaire Damien Stark, and his wife Nikki Fairchild-Stark. ANCHOR ME can be read as a stand alone although I recommend reading the series in order for backstory and cohesion as many of the events in Anchor Me are as of a direct result of previous story lines.

Told from first person point of view (Nikki) ANCHOR ME follows Nikki as she struggles with the past, the present and a possible future. In preparation for a potential new client Nikki and Damien head back to Nikki’s hometown of Dallas Texas that evokes too many bad memories for our story line heroine. A past mired in betrayal, abuse and mistrust finds our heroine struggling with news that will affect her future with the man that she loves. What ensues are Damien and Nikki’s attempts to move on from the past while the past continues to encroach on the couple’s happily ever after.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters most of whom we have met in previous instalments and the numerous spin off series including Stark International and the author’s S.I.N trilogy. The appearance of Nikki’s mother leads to some questionable decisions on behalf of the heroine-I would have refused all contact regardless of the relationship.

ANCHOR ME is a story of love and loss; of family and friendships; of betrayal, painful memories, secrets and new directions. J. Kenner writes an emotional and personal story line about one couple’s struggle with family, dark memories, and loss. Damien is an alpha male, a protective husband, a sensuous lover who lives for the woman that calls to his heart but a woman who struggles with issues of self-esteem, and a history that is darkened by betrayal and loss. The premise will captivate your imagination; the characters will break your heart; the romance continues to push the envelope.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Anchor Me teaser

excerpt

Excerpt intended for mature readers 18+

I stand there for a moment, enjoy the view and letting my imagination fill in the blanks. But I want more than imagination, and so I peel off the nightgown and let it drop onto the floor. I don’t usually sleep in one unless there are guests in the house, but I’d been wearing it on the couch last night, and Damien hadn’t undressed me when he put me to bed.
Now, I stand naked and watch the shape of him move in the steam. I’d been aroused even before I entered this room, simply from the thought of him. But now, seeing him in this wet heat, my body is on overdrive. My nipples are hard, my sex clenching with need. I want his touch—and I damn well intend to have it.
His back is to me when I open the door, his face in the pounding water. I’ve let a wash of cool air in, though, and he turns to face me. As he does, I see the heat flare in his eyes. More interesting, though, is the way his cock hardens, the immediacy of his reaction making absolutely clear that Damien has no objections to my joining him here this morning.
He opens his mouth to say something, but I press a finger over his lips, then step closer. He’s almost finished his shower, so his body is no longer slick with soap. I consider that a good thing, because as I kiss his chest, he tastes fresh and clean.
I move slowly down, licking his skin, teasing the light smattering of hair on his chest. I flick my tongue over his nipple and am rewarded by the way he grabs my hair, his body stiffening beneath my hands that are sliding down his body, too, keeping time with the progress of my kisses.
I go lower, dropping to my knees as I reach his navel. His abs are rock hard and the muscles quiver under my lips. I can tell I’m driving him crazy, and he tightens his grip on my hair even as his other hand reaches for the side of the stall to steady himself.
Lower and lower, my lips teasing his skin, tracing that magical line of hair that leads from just below his navel all the way down to his cock. And when I reach it, thick and wet, I draw my tongue along the velvet steel as Damien moans under my ministrations.
With purposeful slowness, I lick around the head, then flick the end of my tongue over the tip, tasting the pre-come. Then I draw him in, and as I do, the hand that Damien has twined in my hair shifts to the back of my head. At first he just holds me steady, but as I suck in long, deep strokes, he groans with satisfaction and longing, and tightens his grip.
Right now, I’m the one in control, but I can feel that control slipping from me. No, not slipping. Damien is grabbing it by grabbing me—by holding tight to my hair and keeping me in place as he fucks my mouth, totally turning the tables on me.
But I don’t care. I’m too turned on to care, and as his cock fills my mouth and water pounds down over us, I slip my hand between my legs and touch myself, then whimper softly. I’m slick and swollen and so turned on it’s painful, and as I suck my husband’s cock, I tease myself, seeking release.
I’m close, too, so close I can feel electricity filling my body like an approaching thunderstorm. I can feel the tension building in Damien, too, and I know the explosion is coming.
Doesn’t matter. He pulls back, leaving my mouth open in surprise. Then he pulls me to my feet and turns me around, his hands gliding over my wet skin as he spins me. “Hands on the wall,” he demands, and I comply eagerly as his fingers slide over my ass to find my core. And then his cock is there, and he’s pounding inside of me, his hands tight on my breasts as he orders me to “finish what you started, baby. Touch yourself. I want to feel you come with me.”
I don’t hesitate, and as Damien’s wet body slaps against mine—as he thrusts deeper and deeper inside me—I tease my clit, feeling the shockwaves gather inside me, readying for an explosion.
And when Damien’s body goes rigid—when he thrusts hard that one final time—when he releases completely inside me, that’s when I finally go over, my deep cry of satisfaction ringing out in harmony with his as our bodies shake and quiver together from the force of our simultaneous release.
When the shockwaves have faded, he turns me gently in his arms, then rinses me off before shutting off the stream of warm water. He opens the door, and steam curls into the rest of the bathroom.
He leads me out onto the fluffy bathmat, then uses a thick, cotton towel to dry me off.
Only then do I lean my head back, smile, and speak to him for the first time. “Good morning, Mr. Stark.”
“Yes,” he says, matching my grin. “It is.”

about the author

Her books have sold over three million copies and are published in over twenty languages.

Inkslinger 2

Tempt Me (A Stark International Novella) by J. Kenner-Review and Excerpt Tour

Posted on February 15, 2017 by Sandy

TEMPT ME: A Stark International Novella by J. Kenner-Review and Excerpt Tour

TEMPT ME
Stark International Novella
by J. Kenner
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance
Release Date: February 14, 2017

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / ibooks / google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 14, 2017

Sometimes passion has a price …

When sexy Stark Security Chief Ryan Hunter whisks his girlfriend Jamie Archer away for a passionate, romance-filled weekend so he can finally pop the question, he’s certain that the answer will be an enthusiastic yes. So when Jamie tries to avoid the conversation, hiding her fears of commitment and change under a blanket of wild sensuality and decadent playtime in bed, Ryan is more determined than ever to convince Jamie that they belong together.

Knowing there’s no halfway with this woman, Ryan gives her an ultimatum – marry him or walk away. Now Jamie is forced to face her deepest insecurities or risk destroying the best thing in her life. And it will take all of her strength, and all of Ryan’s love, to keep her right where she belongs…

•••••••

REVIEW: TEMPT ME by J. Kenner is a novella that revisits Stark Security Chief Ryan Hunter, and Nikki Fairchild-Stark’s best friend / actress Jamie Archer. A couple of years have passed since Ryan and Jamie first fell in love and Ryan Hunter is hoping to make their relationship more permanent but our heroine Jamie struggles with the idea of marriage and a happily ever after so much so that when Ryan, once again, asks Jamie to marry him, Jamie is blindsided when her own parent’s marriage begins to implode.

TEMPT ME is an erotic story of romance; of one couple’s struggle to take the next step in their relationship. As per J. Kenner’s style of writing, the author’s use of some sexually graphic language is less than desirable and cringe worthy for this reader-I have a difficult time with a certain four letter word no matter the circumstance or usage.

TEMPT ME is a passionate and emotional story line. The premise is provocative; the romance is sexy and hot; the characters are familiar and engaging.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

excerpt

“I adore all of the women in my life,” he says. “I’d do anything for them.” He’s looking at me as he says it, and my heart flutters in my chest. But I’m not sure if he’s including me in that group, or if the hint of meaning I hear in his voice is nothing more than my imagination.
I shake my head as I frown, trying to clear my thoughts.
“You okay?”
“Fine,” I say, though it’s not true. Our rhythm is off, and it’s scaring me. We’ve always been in sync, even before we were dating. And now—well, now it almost feels like he’s deliberately keeping me off balance.
I want to get back to normal, and I don’t know the path, and my lack of confidence is frustrating me.
“Are you heading home?” Ryan asks.
I shake my head. “Oh, I don’t know. I haven’t decided. You?”
“Moira and I are taking Mom back to the hotel.”
I wait for him to invite me along, and when he doesn’t, I say, “It’ll be nice for you guys to have time to chat in the car. But she usually crashes early, doesn’t she?”
“Usually. Why?”
“Oh. Um.” I lick my lips. “Because I was wondering if you wanted to meet me somewhere. We could get a drink. We could talk.”
“Talk,” he repeats. He meets my eyes, and I see the question in them—have I changed my mind? Am I going to say yes?
I glance down at the floor.
“Talk,” he repeats. “No, I’m sorry. I can’t do that.”
I look up, frustrated. “But, Ryan, I just—”
“I have plans. I’m going to Westerfield’s.”
“Oh.” Westerfield’s is one of the hottest clubs in town. It’s also a Stark property, which means when Ryan goes he gets the full VIP treatment. Something that never fails to snag the attention of the female patrons. Most of whom are usually drunk. And wearing outfits that are barely big enough to keep a Barbie doll modest.
“Oh,” I repeat.
I wait for him to suggest I join him there, but all he says is, “It really was great that you came.” Then the bastard leans in and kisses my cheek. He kisses my f*cking cheek.

about the author

Her books have sold over three million copies and are published in over twenty languages.

Website – Twitter – Facebook – Pinterest – Instagram – Tumblr – Goodreads

Entice Me (Stark Trilogy 3.11) b y J. Kenner-Review and Book Tour

Posted on January 19, 2017 by Sandy

ENTICE ME (Stark Trilogy 3.11) by J. Kenner-Review and Book Tour

ENTICE ME
Stark Trilogy 3.11
by J. Kenner
Release Date: January 17, 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance

Entice Me

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 17, 2017

From New York Times bestselling author J. Kenner comes a sensually seductive novella starring fan favorites Damien Stark and his wife, Nikki Fairchild.

Includes a special preview of Anchor Me, the highly anticipated fourth full-length novel featuring Nikki & Damien as they begin the next chapter in their life together.

I didn’t understand passion until I met Damien, the man who turned my world upside down and swept me off my feet.

And though our life together feels perfect, we can’t escape our secrets–and the danger that continually threatens to surface.

But for one night, I seek a respite. A birthday wish for my husband, my lover, my friend—one absolutely perfect night.

It is my most ardent wish.

And I only hope that it will come true…

••••••••••

REVIEW: ENTICE ME is the latest novella in J. Kenner’s contemporary, adult STARK TRILOGY erotic, romance series focusing on billionaire businessman Damien and his wife Nikki Stark. Their continuing story follows the preparations for Damien’s upcoming birthday surprise, and Nikki’s latest business venture in the world of IT and apps.

Told from first person point of view (Nikki Fairchild-Stark) ENTICE ME focuses on Damien’s upcoming birthday. Along with her friends, and Damien’s personal assistant Nikki begins the last minute preparation for a surprise birthday for the man that she loves but a familiar threat from an outside source finds our heroine planning another surprise for someone else.

ENTICE ME is also a story line that sets the foundation for the next full length installment in J. Kenner’s Stark Trilogy- ANCHOR ME -wherein our heroine goes home to face the mother who destroyed her life. The premise is engaging; the characters are familiar and passionate; the romance is sensual and erotic but I still have issues with a certain four letter word that the author feels compelled to use in all of her story lines.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Entice Me teaser

Excerpt

NOTE: Excerpt intended for readers 18+ due to strong language.

He bends down so that his lips graze my ear. “Dance for me, baby. Right now.”
”Is that what you want?” I ask. “To watch me dance? Because I have something else in mind.”
His brow rises. “Do you?”
“Mmm,” I say, then start humming as I pull out my phone and find my current favorite song on my workout playlist. A little fast. A little raunchy. A lot fun. I click the button to send it through our sound system, and when the music starts, I press my hand to Damien’s chest and jauntily strut forward, forcing him backward to the padded bench that is intended as a place to sit and wait for the elevator. Right now, I have a different purpose in mind.
“I’ll dance,” I say, doing a shimmy and pulling off my T-shirt in the process. “I’ll even do a stripper dance,” I add. “But I don’t do solo shows. I require full participation.”
“Do you?”
“Absolutely,” I say, turning around so that my back is to him as I shake and shimmy in time with the music and very, very slowly ease my skirt off.
When I turn around, I’m dressed only in my bra and panties, and though I should feel silly, I don’t. Maybe it’s the alcohol. Maybe it’s the lingering high from fucking him in the limo. Maybe it’s the heated way that he’s watching my every move.
Maybe it’s the simple fact that I love my husband.
Whatever the reason, I’m enjoying showing off, turning him on and getting turned on in the process. And as I think that, I slide one hand over my bra and the other down my abdomen to cup myself over my panties.
I have my eyes closed, and the music’s loud, but I still hear Damien’s sharp intake of breath. I figure that’s as good a cue as any, and I open my eyes and strut toward him, then reach out a hand to pull him up.
He complies, amused, and I do my own version of a pole dance, with Damien playing the role of my pole. Up and down, stroking and teasing, shimmying and shaking. It’s a little erotic and a little silly, and by the time I have my bra off and am about to step out of my panties, I’m both desperately wet and giggling furiously.
I bend over to untangle my panties from around my ankle, and when I do, my giggles turn to squeals as Damien scoops me up and tosses me over his shoulder. I pound uselessly on his back, then cry out when he pitches me unceremoniously onto the bed.
“What are you–?”
“Shhh.” He puts his finger over his mouth, then strips off his own clothes. And though he doesn’t add any dance moves, I can’t deny that I enjoy the show.
Slowly, he eases onto the bed and straddles me. “I liked your dance,” he says. “I like even more that you did it because I told you I wanted it.”
“Anything you want,” I whisper, my voice throaty. “You know that.”
“I want you,” he says, then brushes a kiss over my lips.

About The author

Her books have sold over three million copies and are published in over twenty languages.

Website – Twitter – Facebook – Pinterest – Instagram – Tumblr – Goodreads

Inkslinger 2

Take My Dare (Stark International Trilogy 4) by J. Kenner-Review and Book Tour

Posted on November 9, 2016 by Sandy

TAKE MY DARE (Stark International Trilogy #4) by J.Kenner-Review and Book Tour

TAKE MY DARE
Stark International Trilogy
by J. Kenner
Release Date: November 8, 2016
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance

Take My Dare

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 8, 2016

I’ve never been happier than I am with Jackson Steele. But I should know better than anyone that happiness always comes at a price…

My life with Jackson is nothing short of perfection. He is my love, my husband, the one man in all the world who makes me feel alive and whole. Our careers are on track. Our family is growing. And the ghosts of our past have been vanquished – or so I believed.

When a wonderful night of sensuality and passion following a masquerade ball turns dark with the news that haunting, horrible photographs of me have surfaced, my old fears and insecurities threaten to knock me down, and it is only within Jackson’s arms that I find the strength to endure.

But even Jackson’s protection may not be able to save us, because I know my husband well. And he will do whatever it takes—even if it means risking himself—in order to protect our family…

•••••••••••

REVIEW: TAKE MY DARE is the fourth installment in J. Kenner’s STARK INTERNATIONAL series focusing on Jackson Steele and Sylvia Brooks-Steele. The Stark International series is a spin off from J. Kenner’s Stark Trilogy (Damien and Nikki Stark). TAKE MY DARE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the STARK INTERNATIONAL series in order for cohesion and back story as each installment builds upon the previous story lines.

Told from first person point of view (Sylvia) and third person (Jackson) TAKE MY DARE focuses on the days leading up to and after the release of Sylvia’s father from prison. Sylvia’s father killed the man that all but destroyed Sylvia’s life but with his release, old photographs resurface reminding Sylvia about her shameful and heartbreaking past.

TAKE MY DARE is an erotic story line; a quick read; a novella length story that ‘teases’ the reader but never actually reveals the source of the release. TAKE MY DARE builds up the tension and possible source of the threat with two to three potential guilty parties at the helm. There is suspense and mystery; spicy scenes of romance and $ex; family, friendships and love. The premise is intriguing; the characters are passionate; the romance is provocative and intense.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Take My Dare Teaser

about the author

J.Kenner J. Kenner (aka Julie Kenner) is the New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly, Wall Street Journal and #1 International bestselling author of over seventy novels, novellas and short stories in a variety of genres.

Her books have sold over three million copies and are published in over twenty languages.

Website – Twitter – Facebook – Pinterest – Instagram – Tumblr – Goodreads

Inkslinger 2

Sweetest Taboo (S.I.N. #3) by J. Kenner-Review & Book Tour

Posted on October 8, 2016 by Sandy

SWEETEST TABOO (S.I.N. #3) by J.Kenner-Review and Book Tour

SWEETEST TABOO
S.I.N. #3
by J. Kenner
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romantic suspense
Release Date: October 4, 2016

Sweetest Taboo

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

About the book: Release Date October 4, 2016

All eyes are on us . . . and there’s nowhere to run.

Everyone has their own ideas about Dallas Sykes: He’s a reckless billionaire, a devilish playboy, a man who gets whatever he wants the minute he wants it. But I know the real Dallas behind the money, bravado, and power—and he’s completely, blissfully mine.

We carefully guarded our secrets, and in each other’s arms we sought refuge from our dark past. Our pain became our pleasure, our control within the chaos. But we could only hide from the truth for so long.

Now we’ve let loose our inhibitions and are ready to face the future. And no matter what people think or say, coming clean is its own sweet reward.

••••••••••••••

REVIEW: SWEETEST TABOO is the third and final installment in J. Kenner’s contemporary, adult S.I.N. erotic, romance series focusing on adopted siblings Dallas Sykes and Jane Martin. Dallas is the heir to a billion dollar enterprise, and Jane is a child advocate, and author. The S.I.N. series is a spin off from J.Kenner’s STARK series. SWEETEST TABOO should not be read as a stand alone as the story line continues upon the events of the first two books, and picks up immediately after book two.

SOME BACKGROUND: Seventeen years earlier, Dallas and Jane were victims of a brutal kidnapping that left our couple emotionally and psychologically scarred but none more so than Dallas Sykes. In the hopes of capturing the people responsible, Dallas and his former SEAL buddies are the founding members of a vigilante organization known as Deliverance that uses alternative measures to exact revenge, and all information points to someone close.

Told from first person point of view (Jane) and third person perspective (Dallas) SWEETEST TABOO follows in the aftermath of Dallas’s reveal of who he believes was responsible for the abduction and torture seventeen years earlier. As Jane and Dallas begin to piece together all of the information leading to the same conclusion, threats of another nature target Jane in the hopes of destroying her relationship with the man that she loves.

Once again, SWEETEST TABOO and the S.I.N. series continues to be a sexually graphic story line about a taboo relationship between adopted siblings. The psychological and emotional damage inflicted upon on our story line couple continues to perpetuate through threats and the knowledge that their kidnapper and abuser is someone they know. The media and paparazzi hassle the couple taking aim at their ongoing relationship. The $ex scenes are numerous, graphic and erotic, although our hero is no longer in the same, dark place he once was because of the love he shares with the woman of his heart. Sadly, many of the $ex scenes felt like filler-I was more interested in the actual story and found myself skimming to get on with the plot. I was hoping for a little more meat to the story and in the end it felt like a rush to the finish.

For me, the person(s) responsible for the kidnapping was easily deduced (and predictable) from book one but for others the revelation may not be as obvious. The taboo of adopted siblings in a sexual relationship may be difficult for some readers but they are not blood relatives- only two people raised together due to tragic circumstances.

SWEETEST TABOO is the culmination of two people struggling with their love for one another under the public and private scrutiny of taboo relationships and forbidden love. The premise is suspense filled and entertaining but oft times melodramatic; the characters are passionate and memorable; the romance is heartbreaking and emotional; a struggle towards a happily ever after.

Reading Order and previous reviews
Dirtiest Secret
Hottest Mess
Sweetest Taboo

Copy supplied by Netgalley for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Sweetest Taboo Teaser

Excerpt

She stood before him, breathing hard. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry.”
He frowned. “I hurt you.”
“No. No, I’m fine.” She shook her head, but he knew better. “Dallas, please. I don’t want—”
“What?”
“Distance.” She dragged her teeth over her lower lip as if she was unsure about how he felt.
“Oh, baby. No. Never.” He held out his hand. “Come here.”
She cocked her head, then narrowed her eyes. “Where?”
“Do you trust me?”
“Yes.”
The speed of her reply sang in his heart. “Then let me take care of you.”
The corner of her mouth twitched. “If you’re thinking about putting me to bed, you can just stop that nonsense right now. I’ve been in a hospital for almost two days. Between boredom and sedatives, I’m all caught up on my sleep.”
“I promise, sleep is the last thing on my mind.”
That was a little bit of a lie. She’d protest, he knew, but she needed more sleep. Good sleep, not with nurses popping in and out and a sterile bed with the scent of hospital disinfectant permeating the room.
She’d sleep, all right. But he intended to make sure she was ready for it. That she would drift under, safe and warm and content in his arms.
Gently, he drew her into the bathroom, her favorite room in the apartment. The previous owners had knocked out a wall, turned the small second bedroom into a closet, and used part of that space to make room for a steam shower and an oversize whirlpool tub. The day they’d moved in, Jane had told him this bathroom was a little slice of heaven.
He turned the water on, cranking up the heat the way he knew she liked it, then he stood her on the dense, white rug that filled most of the space.
“Are you tending me?” Her voice was as teasing as her expression, and it was all he could do not to gather her close and sigh with contentment. Yes, he knew she was still aching and sore. No, they didn’t know who her attacker was. Yes, her birth father was locked in a cell, and Dallas was the one keeping him there.
But none of that mattered. Not then. All he cared about—all he could hold in his head—was Jane. That she was alive. That she was his.
That she’d come back to him.
“Damn right I’m tending you. Now put your hands up,” he added with mock sternness.
She complied, and he peeled off her scrub top, delighted to find that she wore nothing beneath it. Her breasts were perfect, round and firm, and as he watched, her nipples tightened and her areolae puckered. He wanted to roll her nipples between his fingers. He wanted to taste her breasts and feel her arch back and moan, her tits hard and hot in his hands as he licked and sucked, taking her so far that she came in his arms simply from the pressure of the desire building between her legs.
Not now. Not yet.
Instead, he met her eyes. Then he lowered his gaze to her chest, watching it rise and fall as her desire heightened to match his. Her pulse quickened in her throat, another spot that he wanted to lick and tease.
Slowly, he reached for the drawstring of her pants. His fingers brushed her abdomen as he did, the touch so light it was almost negligible. It was enough, though, and he felt the shock of that connection all the way down to his cock. He was rock hard and straining against his jeans. And when her pants slid over her hips to the floor—when she stood before him completely naked—he had to fight the battle of his life not to step forward, slide his hand between her thighs, and feel the creamy heat of her arousal.
Instead, he simply stood and stared and wanted, his gaze caressing her. Reviewing every curve, every nuance. He knew her body as well as he knew his own, and the bruises he saw on her thighs and hips started a slow burn inside him.
He was going to kill whoever did this. No doubt. No question.

About The author J.Kenner J. Kenner (aka Julie Kenner) is the New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly, Wall Street Journal and #1 International bestselling author of over seventy novels, novellas and short stories in a variety of genres.

Her books have sold over three million copies and are published in over twenty languages.

Website – Twitter – Facebook – Pinterest – Instagram – Tumblr – Goodreads

Inkslinger 2

Hottest Mess (S.I.N. #2) by J. Kenner-Review and Book Tour

Posted on July 14, 2016 by Sandy

HOTTEST MESS (S.I.N. 2) by J. Kenner-Review and Book Tour

Hottest Mess

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| iBooks UK | iBooks AU

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 12, 2016

No one can know about our love—and hiding only makes it hotter.

Dallas Sykes has a reputation. He is known for his parties, his money, and the countless women on his arm. Yet the Dallas I know is a different man—darker, smarter, and unbearably sexy. Just one look from him can leave me breathless; the anticipation of his touch can make me lose control.

Inextricably bound by our past, we keep each other’s secrets. And while there are people who have the power to hurt us, it’s the truth that threatens us most of all.

Dallas can be mine only behind closed doors, our passion as searing as it is forbidden. Yet nothing in this world has ever felt so desperately, deliciously right.

••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: HOTTEST MESS is the second installment in J. Kenner’ contemporary, adult S.I.N. erotic, romance trilogy focusing on adopted siblings Dallas Sykes and Jane Martin. Dallas is the heir to a billion dollar enterprise, and Jane is a child advocate, and author. The S.I.N. series is a spin off from J.Kenner’s STARK series. Dallas Sykes is reintroduced to the reader in the novella DEEPEST KISS (March 2016). HOTTEST MESS should not be read as a stand alone as the premise builds upon the events of book one DIRTIEST SECRET.

Told from first person point of view (Jane) and third person perspective (Dallas) HOTTEST MESS continues to focus on the forbidden relationship between Dallas Sykes, and his adopted sister Jane Martin. Seventeen years earlier, Dallas and Jane were victims of a brutal kidnapping that left our couple emotionally and psychologically scarred but none more so than Dallas Sykes. In the hopes of capturing the people responsible, Dallas and his former SEAL buddies are the founding members of a vigilante organization known to use alternative measures to exact revenge, and all information points to someone close. As Dallas and Jane’s relationship builds, there are those who are willing to destroy everything in their path. What ensues is the search for the truth; too many secrets that remain closed and dark; and two broken people whose pasts refuse to let go.

HOTTEST MESS is a sexually graphic story line about forbidden love; about the psychological and emotional damage for two people whose lives were destroyed by someone else’s greed; and the need to reveal the truth –consequences be damned. Dallas is a man trapped in the past and unable to let go; Jane is determined to save the man she has loved most of her life but a man who believes he cannot be saved. The love between our couple is tempered by the taboo, but behind closed doors, their secret affair is heartbreaking and passionate.

The world building focuses on the darkness that is slowly engulfing our leading hero. The dangerous ramifications of a man determined to destroy those who destroyed his life; and the possibility that the person (s) responsible is someone they both know. Although not a major premise of the story, the BDSM trope is, once again, called to attention when our hero is unable to let go of the past.

HOTTEST MESS reveals the heartbreak and pain of betrayal; the need for revenge; and the dark and dangerous secrets revealed and those yet to be revealed. The premise is gripping and consuming; the characters are passionate and intense; the romance is provocative, tragic and ill-fated. HOTTEST MESS ends on a cliffhanger – so – you have been warned.

Reading Order and reviews

Dirtiest Secret
Hottest Mess
Sweetest Taboo-October 2016

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Hottest Mess Teaser

About The Author Black and yellow

J.Kenner Though known primarily for her award-winning and internationally bestselling erotic romances (including the Stark and Most Wanted series) that have reached as high as #2 on the New York Times bestseller list and #1 internationally, JK has been writing full time for over a decade in a variety of genres including paranormal and contemporary romance, “chicklit” suspense, urban fantasy, and paranormal mommy lit.

JK has been praised by Publishers Weekly as an author with a “flair for dialogue and eccentric characterizations” and by RT Bookclub for having “cornered the market on sinfully attractive, dominant antiheroes and the women who swopn for him.” A four time finalist for Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA award, JK took home the first RITA trophy awarded in the category of erotic romance in 2014 for her novel, Claim Me (book 2 of her Stark Trilogy).

Website – Twitter – Facebook – Pinterest – Instagram – Tumblr – Goodreads

Dirtiest Secret (S.I.N. #1) by J. Kenner-Review, Book tour & Giveaway

Posted on April 14, 2016 by Sandy

DIRTIEST SECRET (S.I.N. #1) by J. Kenner-review and book tour

DIRTIEST SECRET
S.I.N. #1
by J. Kenner
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romantic suspense
Release Date: April 19, 2016

Dirtiest Secret

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 19, 2016

It was wrong for us to be together, but it was even harder to be apart.

The memory of Dallas Sykes burns inside of me.

Everyone knows him as a notorious playboy, a man for whom women and money are no object. But to me, he’s still the one man I desperately crave—yet the one I can never have.

Dallas knows me better than anyone else. We bear the same scars, the same darkness in our past. I thought I could move on by staying away, but now that we’re drawn together once more, I can’t fight the force of our attraction or the temptation to make him mine.

We’ve tried to maintain control, not letting ourselves give in to desire. And for so long we’ve told ourselves no—but now it’s finally time to say yes.

Dirtiest Secret is intended for mature audiences.

••••••••••••

REVIEW: DIRTIEST SECRET is the first installment in J. Kenner’s adult, contemporary S.I.N. erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on heir to a billion dollar enterprise Dallas Sykes, and author/ child advocate Jane Martin. DIRTIEST SECRET and the S.I.N. series is a spin off from J.Kenner’s STARK series. Dallas Sykes is reintroduced to the reader in DEEPEST KISS (March 2016).

Told from first person point of view (Jane) and third person perspective (Dallas) using memories from the past and present day, DIRTIEST SECRET follows the ‘forbidden’ relationship between Dallas Sykes and Jane Martin. Dallas and Jane have known one another since early childhood, and have endured some dark and damaging times, but Dallas is keeping his distance from the woman that he loves to protect her from the man that he has become.

Jane is a woman, strong in her convictions, but a woman who has loved Dallas Sykes most of her life. As she struggles with her relationship with and love for Dallas, Dallas continues to keep secrets from Jane and the rest of the world. What ensues are Jane’s attempts to keep Dallas in her life, as Dallas battles the demons from the past.

To be honest, I am purposely being vague about much of the premise as the secrets from the past, the present and the possible future are dark, dangerous and heartbreaking, and are the catalyst that sent Jane and Dallas’s lives out of control. The ‘elephant in the room’-the person ultimately responsible for the past-is easily deduced from my perspective but there is always a possibility that something could change in future installments.

The world building focuses on relationships, recovery and revenge-grieving about what was and what will never be yet struggling to ensure it will never happen again. We look at fractured family dynamics, secrets from the past, and a ‘forbidden’ love that is only forbidden in the mind-life long friends who have lived through hell and survived to live another day.

The relationship between Jane and Dallas has been damaged and destroyed by the past- a past mired in betrayal, heartbreak, and abuse, that have formed the people we read about –today. The chemistry between Jane and Dallas is palpable; unmistakable and profound. Dallas needs and wants Jane with every breath that he takes, but he believes is unable to give Jane the love that she needs.

J. Kenner once again traverses into the BDSM territory with secret clubs, and hidden desires. In all honesty, I am tiring of the BDSM trope-the billionaire who needs to control and use power to usurp the women in his life-sometimes I want a hero who doesn’t require Domination/submission to succeed or fall in love.

DIRTIEST SECRET ends on a cliffhanger-it is book one of three and therefore be prepared to learn the truth-one book at a time. The premise is a slow build that focuses on what happened in the early years of Dallas and Jane’s life-the catastrophic actions of greed; the destructive nature of abuse and betrayal. The characters are heartbreaking, impassioned and intense. The romance is an emotional struggle against the odds-a love that has never faltered between two people who have fallen into a pit of darkened memories and a tainted past. DIRTIEST SECRET is an emotional and heartbreaking tale that grabs hold and refuses to let go.

Copy supplied by Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

Dirtiest Secret teaser

Excerpt Black and Hot Pink

Even by Southampton standards, the party at the nine-thousand-square-foot mansion on Meadow Lane reeked of extravagance.
Grammy Award–winning artists performed on an outdoor stage that had been set up on the lush lawn that flowed from the main house to the tennis courts. Celebrities hobnobbed with models who flirted with Wall Street tycoons who discussed stock prices with tech gurus and old-money academics, all while sampling fine scotch and the season’s chicest gin. Colored lights illuminated the grotto style pool, upon which nude models floated lazily on air mattresses, their bodies used by artisan sushi chefs as presentation platters for epicurean delights.Each female guest received a Hermès Birkin bag and each male received a limited edition Hublot watch, and the exclamations of delight—from both the men and the women—rivaled the boom of the fireworks that exploded over Shinnecock Bay at precisely ten p.m., perfectly timed to distract the guests from the bustle of the staff switching out the dinner buffet for the spread of desserts, coffee, and liqueurs.

No expense had been spared, no desire or craving or indulgence overlooked. Nothing had been left to chance, and every person in attendance agreed that the party was the Must Attend event of the season, if not of the year. Hell, if not of the decade.

Everyone who was anyone was there, under the stars on the four acre lot on Billionaires’ Row.

Everyone, that is, except the billionaire who was actually hosting the party. And speculation as to where he was, what he was doing, and who he was doing it with ripped through the well-liquored and gossip-hungry crowd like wildfire in a windstorm.

“No idea where he could have disappeared off to, but I’d bet good money he’s not pining away in solitude,” said a reed-thin man with salt-and-pepper hair and an expression that suggested disapproval but was most likely envy.

“I swear I came five times,” a perky blonde announced to her best friend in the kind of stage whisper designed to attract attention. “The man’s a master in bed.”

“He’s got a shrewd head for business, that one,” said a Wall Street trader, “but no sense of propriety where his cock is concerned.”

“Oh, honey, no. He’s not relationship material.” A brunette celebrating a recently inked modeling contract shivered as if reliving a moment of ecstasy. “He’s like fine chocolate. Meant to be savored in very limited quantities. But so damn good when you have it.”

“More power to him if he can grab that much pussy.” A hipster with beard stubble and a man-bun wiped his wire-rimmed glasses clean with his shirttail. “But why the fuck does he have to be so blatant about it?”

“All of my friends have had him.” The petite redhead who pulled in a six figure wife bonus smiled slowly, and the flash of her green eyes suggested that she was the cat and he was the delicious cream. “But I’m the only one of us to enjoy a second helping.”

“All your friends?”

“How much pussy?”

“At least half the women here tonight. Maybe more.”

“Man, don’t even ask that. Just trust me. Dallas Sykes is the King of Fuck. You and me? Mere mortals like us can’t even compare.”

about the author

JK has been praised by Publishers Weekly as an author with a “flair for dialogue and eccentric characterizations” and by RT Bookclub for having “cornered the market on sinfully attractive, dominant antiheroes and the women who swopn for him.” A four time finalist for Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA award, JK took home the first RITA trophy awarded in the category of erotic romance in 2014 for her novel, Claim Me (book 2 of her Stark Trilogy).

Website – Twitter – Facebook – Pinterest – Instagram – Tumblr – Goodreads

Giveaway

J.Kenner’s publisher and The Reading Cafe are graciously offering a paper copy of DIRTIEST SECRET to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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

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

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

3. Please follow J.Kenner on Facebook.

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

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

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

7. Please follow The Reading Cafe on Tumblr

8. Giveaway is open to USA only

9. Giveaway runs from April 14 to 18, 2016

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Tag Archives: J. Kenner

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Dirtiest Secret (S.I.N. #1) by J. Kenner-Review, Book tour & Giveaway

DIRTIEST SECRET (S.I.N. #1) by J. Kenner-review and book tour

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