Tag Archives: Julie B

An Endless Memory (Oil Knights 5) by Marie Johnston-review

Posted on by
15

An Endless Memory (Oil Knights 5) by Marie Johnston-review

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 15, 2024

Move out or get married. Those are my options, thanks to the trust my grandma left behind.

From Marie Johnston comes a single mom, marriage of convenience romance.

My aunt is determined to see to the terms of the inheritance. If I don’t get married, I’ll have to find somewhere I can afford with two kids and a lot of debt—and do it without losing my brand new job. When she confronts me on the moveout deadline, I try to buy time. I blurt out a name. I tell her I’m engaged to Eliot Knight.

Eliot’s my boss’s brother, and he’s been around the vet clinic where I work. He’s hot. He’s charming. He’s who I’d pick if I had to marry someone at a moment’s notice. But he wasn’t supposed to hear me. He wasn’t supposed to get dragged into my mess. And he wasn’t supposed to agree to help me. Now, we’re Mr. and Mrs. Knight.

We only need to be married for a year, and he runs his family’s ranch in another town. Three hours away. Yet circumstances keep throwing us together, and I get a lot of time with my new husband. I enjoy his company. His…touch. I fall hard the first time I heard him say “my wife.”

But our lives are still separate. At the end of the year, I’m afraid I’ll get to keep my house, but I’ll lose my heart and be left with nothing but endless memories.

••••

REVIEW:A great way to say goodbye to the Knight family and the series 😊

The final book is Eliot Knight, he has long taken on the responsibilities of the Knight Ranch. He’s made a few appearances/mentions in previous books, and I was curious to meet me. He seems like a stand-up guy. Putting the needs of the family before his own, I did wonder if that ever got to be a problem….

Lily on the other hand is terrified of losing her home! The inheritance Lily received from her grandmother, states in order to keep the home, Lily needs to be married! (Rather archaic if you ask me 🤨) and if she doesn’t have a home, then how can she work?

Their initial meeting wasn’t exactly a meeting of souls 😆, but they definitely made lasting impressions on each other.

Eliot walks in on a conversation with Lily and her aunt at just the right time. And being the gentleman he is goes right along with Lily! (He walks in as Lily is claiming that Eliot and her dating!! Oops)

They enter a marriage of convenience so that Lily can inherit her grandmother’s farmhouse and land. It’s only for a year, they can manage a year, right? Though they pretend to be married and living together when needed, the chemistry begins fly between them. And Eliot finally realizes that life is more than just working at the ranch!
He also realises it’s time to confront his troubled relationship with his mother!

Lily wants and needs to be independent, she wants to make it on her own. But can she keep her heart out of this marriage? It’s looking harder and harder! She fears that she’s falling for her “fake” husband!

I loved the ending of this book, even though I wasn’t sure they would make it! I liked how Eliot decides that he wants his little ready made family, and will do anything to keep it. Lily did keep him on his toes 😆 We also get to catch up with the Knight siblings.

I love the chemistry, the banter and the rapport between Lily and Eliot.
Right from the first they are attracted to each other, but neither are willing to put their feelings on the line!

I’ve read a d loved all the previous books, and there is no need to worry if you haven’t read any before this one (they all stand on their own, and can be read out of order with no problems)

I’m sad to say goodbye, but I know it won’t be long before the author gives me a new family 😉 to obsess over.

A highly recommended read 👍🏻

 

Reading Order and Previous reviews
A Reckless Memory
A Temporary Memory
An Unfinished Memory
A Fearless Memory

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie 🦋

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

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

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

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

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

Share

Priceless (Clarity Coast 2) by Devyn Sinclair-review tour

Posted on by
17

Priceless (Clarity Coast Omegaverse 2) by Devyn Sinclair-review tour

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 8, 2024

Three billionaire Alphas. A marriage of convenience. What can possibly go wrong?

Being an Omega is incredible. Being a fat Omega no one wants? Not so much.

But I don’t need to be wanted, I only need to survive. There’s five years left until I get my trust fund, and I can put my toxic, abusive, fatphobic family in my rearview mirror.

That’s my plan, and I’m sticking to it—until three Alphas offer my family a deal.

Three Alphas who are ridiculously rich, scorchingly hot, and claim they need me. For one year.

The deal: Marry them for one year to help save their company, and I walk away with my trust and my freedom. Simple. Easy. I don’t even blink before I sign on the dotted line.

I thought it was just a marriage of convenience and nothing more. I didn’t count on my husbands caring about me. Protecting me. Craving me. Seducing Me. Making me feel things I never have before.

Now a year doesn’t feel like long enough. But that’s what we agreed. One year, and we all walk away.

All good things come to an end. I just hope I can keep my heart from breaking when it does.

••••

REVIEW:Second book in this series, and I’m glad it was Ocean’s story (don’t think she would have lasted much longer without her pack!)

Living with her aunt and uncle after her parents died in a car crash, sees Ocean living an unhappy life!

Yes, she still misses her parents, especially her mother. But it’s not a happy household! They have money courtesy of her parents (and a trust that she inherits at thirty five!) but they belittle her for the slightest thing, years of being told “your fat” “no one will want you” “you will never amount to nothing” has Ocean with no confidence at all! Even her best friends can’t make her see herself other than what she’s been called! She needs to get out from under their thumbs, but unless she marries, she can’t see that happening!!

Her uncle is hosting a gala and Ocean is told to attend! Being trussed up and paraded around, has Ocean exhausted mentally and physically, just a little longer and she can escape to her room….

Being accosted and forced to dance with a man that makes her skin crawl, Ocean just wants to run and hide. That is until her rescuer sweeps in……

Micah, Everett, and Cameron want nothing to do with the man holding this gala, but they attend each year. This year they are attending in search for a bride! Their company directors are forcing their hand (apparently they aren’t giving the right signals to their customers)

Unhappy at this turn of event, the DuPont pack arrive and immediately want to go home, Micah spots a lonely figure on the balcony above and is transfixed, he needs to meet this vision….

Being rescued by the Alphas has Ocean both elated and terrified, they are saying all the right things, but she just won’t let herself believe them.

They on the other hand and obsessed with Ocean…. She is their scent matched mate!! They need her like yesterday!!

So they go about making her their wife!!

It’s not an easy job. There are obstacles at almost every turning point. And Ocean is one of them! She doesn’t believe them, how could three gorgeous alphas want a fat mate?! So they make out it’s a marriage that will last a year…. Ocean will get out from under her relatives, get her trust early, and the alphas will get the board of their back.

I loved this book. I hated how Ocean was made to feel, everyone should be loved no matter their shape!

Really liked how each alpha brought something to the table.

The twists were great, I did guess one, but not the other.

Seeing Ocean’s friends were great, and I can’t wait to see what the last friend gets up to in her book.

It’s paced pretty well, slow burn until it’s not 😜 🥵

Definitely recommend for those who love the Omegaverse genre.

Click HERE for Julie’s review of book one ENDLESS CLARITY

copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie🦋

Social Media: Goodreads/  Amazon Author / Website/ Facebook/ Instagram / TikTok

Devyn Sinclair writes steamy Reverse Harem romances for your wildest fantasies. Every sexy story is packed with the right amount heat, hot men, and delicious happy endings.

She lives in the wilds of Montana in a small red house and a crazy orange cat. When Devyn’s not writing, she spends time outside in big sky country, continues her quest to find the best lemon pastry there is, and buys too many books. (Of course!)

If you’d like updates about Devyn’s new releases, sexy bonus content, and the occasional dessert recipe, sign up for my newsletter by copy & pasting this link into your browser: https://www.subscribepage.com/devynsinclair

Share

Kissed by a Scoundrel (Rogue Hearts 4) by Anna St. Claire-review

Posted on by
15

Kissed by a Scoundrel (Rogue Hearts 4) by Anna St. Claire-review

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 6, 2024

Their paths were never meant to cross… until tragedy struck.

Marriage is the one thing he avoids…
Lord Sebastian Soren, known as Slice to his friends, earned his nickname on the battlefield during his illustrious military service. Now a successful security expert, Sebastian is content traveling the world and indulging in carefree liaisons with charming widows. As the second son of a duke, he sees no need for the parson’s mousetrap called marriage. But when he agrees to protect his friend’s sister during her London Season, his life takes an unexpected turn.

Marriage is the one dream she lost…
Katie Latham has spent the past year mourning the tragic death of her fiancé during a robbery. Overwhelmed by guilt and grief, Katie becomes a recluse, fearful of the outside world. When her family finally persuades her to re-enter Society, she realizes she must conquer her fears. Who better to teach her self-defense than the man known as Slice?
From the moment their eyes meet across a glittering ballroom, Katie and Sebastian are drawn to each other. As danger threatens to destroy everything they hold dear, they discover the true depths of their feelings.

•••••

REVIEW: A little murder/mystery with romance and suspense thrown in for good measure.

Lord Sebastian “Slice” to his friends has no intention of getting married. He leaves that to his older brother. He’s happy travelling the world and having liaisons with willing widows. As a favour to his friend, Sebastian has the job of keeping an eye on the sister during the London Society season!

Poor Kathleen “Katie”, she tragically lost her fiancé in a robbery! Terrified of the outside world, she became trapped in her own home! Nightmare and flashbacks keep her afraid of her own shadow!

Neither have plans to marry. Neither had plans to fall in love! Fate has a little surprise for them both!

Her brother and sister in law having been slowly getting her to come out of her shell, and now they want her to attend the Dowager’s ball! But attending gives her a horrible experience and a flashback! But before she can leave, Sebastian comes to her aid. They spend the evening together talking….

But unbeknown to them, they are being watched!

Spending more time together (being encouraged by their family and friends) the couple become close, and feelings that neither thought they would have have, grow.

A really good read. It has loads of fast paced action, but it is a really slow burn in the romance area. We have twists and turns, we also try to work out who killed Wendel (her betrothed) and why they still watch Katie! This is part of a series, I haven’t read the first book. But it’s not a problem, as they are all stand alone reads.

I did chuckle at the Dowager, she’s definitely a matchmaker and had fun putting these two together 😃

But do we find out why Wendel was murdered? Do we find out why Katie was being stalked?

We….. Sorry!!! To find out, you’ll need to read the book 😉

Previous Reviews
Boxing With My Duke

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B🦋

FOLLOW Anna: Goodreads/ Website/ Facebook/ Twitter/ Bookbub/ Amazon Author Page

I love to express myself to the point that my daughter avoids going to the movies with me because I’m that woman in the row in front of you who gleefully munches her popcorn and laughs at every hilarious scene. Loudly. Besides my family, I love chocolate, popcorn, laughter, and animals. I love animals so much that I frequently sprinkle them in my stories as secondary characters. They usually steal the show! British and American history has always interested me, so writing historical romances set in the U.K. and the US is where my passion is.

Share

Never Have I Ever (Rock Star to Enemies) by SL Scott-review tour

Posted on by
15

💙Never Have I Ever (Rock Star to Enemies) by SL Scott-review tour💙

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 1, 2024

She can’t remember. He can’t forget.

~~~

Flat on my back is not how I imagined meeting my new boss and hot-as-sin rock star. But here I am . . .

If I didn’t already have amnesia, I’d be wishing for it now.

In my defense, Laird Faris was only wearing a shameless smirk and a towel wrapped around his chiseled abs when we met.

Brooding.
Devastatingly handsome.
Utterly intolerable.

Naturally, I’m instantly attracted to him.

It’s not only his broad shoulders and gorgeous face that wreck my equilibrium, but also a distinct tattoo on his chest that matches one on my hip.

Our chemistry is off the charts.
Searing kisses make his grumpiness bearable.
Every touch we share is full of fire and flashes of memories, making me wonder if our connection isn’t destiny after all.

But do the secrets he hides behind his icy blue eyes have something to do with the weekend I can’t remember and the past he can’t forget?

•••••••

REVIEW:A second chance at romance it’s not one of my favourite genres, but reading the blurb had me reaching for my kindle to read it. And I’m glad I did…..

They were going to be together forever, that’s what Laird and Poppy had planned, until fate crashed and burned!! Leaving Laird waiting by the tour bus……

A bitter and empty Laird goes through the emotions (all except love, that’s firmly left him!) and for two years he never forgot the girl with the matching tattoo!

Poppy wanted to go with Laird, and maybe if she’s gone with him there and then, she wouldn’t have gotten into a car crash! Waking with amnesia, Poppy forgot all about the love waiting for her…..

We skip two years…..

Fate brings the couple back together, Laird wants to know why she didn’t return to him? When he finds out she has amnesia and that’s why she didn’t come with him. Laird sets about making Poppy fall for him all over again. But he’s facing a dilemma! Does he blurt out they knew each other before, or does he let nature take its course?

Such an amazing read. I fell in love with Laird from almost the beginning (Poppy took a little longer!)

Quote from the book “She can’t remember. I can’t forget.” 😌

It’s a little slow burn at first, but we definitely get the heat as the book progresses 😉

Poppy is a chef to the stars, Laird is hiding from the world in a cabin. And when they meet, Laird is angry that Poppy doesn’t remember him! They argue, she leaves, he rescues her, they have a tentative truce!

Fate brings the couple back together, Laird wants to know why she didn’t return to him? When he finds out she has amnesia and that’s why she didn’t come with him. Laird sets about making Poppy fall for him all over again. But he’s facing a dilemma! Does he blurt out they knew each other before, or does he let nature take its course?

As time goes by, Poppy gets snippets of her past! Will she remember what they had together?

“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙚, 𝙋𝙤𝙥𝙥𝙮. 𝙏𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙞𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙄’𝙢 𝙣𝙤 𝙜𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”

It’s part of a series, I’ve not read any of the others, but I’ve now added them to my TBR list 😉

A great read, and one I highly recommend.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B 🦋.

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

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

Connect w/S.L. Scott:

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

Share

Memories Made at Midnight by Collette Cameron-review

Posted on by
14

Memories Made at Midnight (Chronicles of the Westbrook Brides Book 9) by Collette Cameron-review

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 16, 2024

A perilous journey ignites passion between an artist and an heiress
Cassius Westbrook, the youngest twin son of a duke, has no desire to bask in the societal privileges his birth affords him. Choosing the arduous path of an artist in Brighton over the complications of love and marriage, he dedicates his enthusiasm to his artwork instead of romance. However, his steadfast resolve falters when he is hired to paint a miniature for the enchanting Beatrice Fairfax. Her guardian uncle intends to use this portrait to secure a wealthy suitor for the orphaned heiress, a notion that Cassius finds detestable, yet he agrees to the commission.

Beatrice Fairfax, heiress to a modest fortune, is resolute in her decision never to marry. Scarred by her mother’s scandalous affair and her own disheartening encounters with men, she dedicates herself to an independent yet solitary future, expanding her animal rescue sanctuary and traveling the world. But her uncle harbors sinister designs on her fortune, determined to bend her to his will by any means necessary, including forcing her into an arranged marriage. His machinations lead Beatrice to seek Cassius’s aid, igniting a desperate flight from Brighton to London.

As these two people from opposite worlds journey together, their forced proximity fans the flames of an unexpected attraction, challenging both to navigate their feelings and reconsider their futures. Will they seize this chance, or will the shadows of their pasts and the dangers of the present keep them apart? Dive into their tumultuous tale and discover if love can indeed conquer all.

••••

REVIEW:Reading Colette’s books are what i call a palate cleanser. It’s light/refreshing and you don’t have to worry about spice!

Beatrice is going to stay a spinster forever! After countless disasters with men and the scandals surrounding her mother, it’s made her extremely wary. But that’s not to say she a wallflower, oh no, she’s very independent and spirited.

Cassius only wants to be recognised for his artwork. He has no wish to bask in the notoriety like his twin does! Cassius seems like a really nice guy. He doesn’t want or need his name, and when faced with a moral dilemma, he definitely steps up.

When fate throws these two people together, there is definitely an interest there, but as both have decided to remain single, it doesn’t look like anything is going to happen….

Cassius has been asked to paint a portrait of the lovely Beatrice, her uncle intends to marry her off unbeknownst to her to a rich suitor! So they decide to plan an escape from Brighton to London, and along the way they find their friendship turning into more… But will they seize the opportunity for love? Or will their pasta hold them back?

I really enjoyed this one. Although no steam/spice, the story is a steady paced read, and soon you are engaged and engrossed.

I didn’t care for Beatrice’s uncle (nasty man!) And you have to remember that in this time period, women weren’t allowed freedom, or an option (and Beatrice had a strong belief and opinion.)

If you’re looking for a sweet love story with only a few kisses, then I recommend this one for you to read.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B.🦋

Share

Secrets of a Highlander’s Heart by Julie Johnstone-review

Posted on by
16

Secrets of a Highlander’s Heart (Return of the Highlanders 1) by Julie Johnstone-review

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 25, 2024

Will the truth of the past destroy the hope of their future?

How far will he go for vengeance?

Brus Stone remembers nothing of his life before he was rescued at the age of five summers and brought to live as part of the Northern Watch. Having been told his mother abandoned him, he’s about as willing to give his trust to a woman as he is to hand his sword to his enemy during battle. So when he’s tasked with accompanying a group of highlanders through the treacherous lands he helps patrol and he encounters a bonny lass who proves to be as brave as any warrior he’s ever met, he’s surprised by his pull to the lass and more than wary because of it. He steels himself against lowering his guard, but her open nature bemuses him, and her caring heart entices him. Each time he touches her he finds himself further drawn to the warmth she exudes and the possibility that believing in her will not result in betrayal. But a shocking revelation about his past obliterates everything he holds true and leaves him with a choice—give unwavering faith to the daughter of the enemy he didn’t know he had or raise his guard once more and secure the ultimate revenge.

How much will she lose for love?

Grace MacDonald is starting to wonder whether she’ll ever meet a man who sees her as an equal and not simply a potential wife to do as he bids. To complicate matters, her father wishes her to wed her childhood friend and fortify an important alliance between their clans. Though she wants to please her beloved father, her friend does not stir her heart or her desire, so she’s reluctant to accept his offer of marriage. When the party she’s travelling with is attacked and a Scottish warrior rescues her, she’s immediately drawn to the powerfully compelling man. Not only does he display a gentle caring side, but he also listens to what she says and seems to value her opinions. His every look, touch, and kiss ignite her in the way she’s been waiting for all her life. But Brus will not completely let her in. He has erected a barrier between them, and the harder she tries to breach it, the more withdrawn he becomes. She’s determined to prove to him that he can count on her, so they can grasp the glorious love she’s sure awaits them. Yet when a devastating secret comes to light, she must decide whether her loyalty remains with the father she’s always trusted or whether it belongs with the man she’s certain is her destiny.

••••••

REVIEW:With Julie Johnstone, you can always rely that a good story waits for you. And this one did not disappoint.

Brus has a huge grudge where women are concerned! Well, I suppose you can’t really blame him.(His mother abandoned him as a baby.) So trust with women doesn’t come easily. And when he’s given the job of guarding a group of highlanders as they pass through this patrol area…..

Grace isn’t a meek and mild young lady! She knows her own mind! But that doesn’t mean a thing in this era! And to top it off, her father wants her to marry her friend! What Grace wants is an equal, she’s wanting passion and fire, and she doesn’t see her friend in that way!

There is an attraction between Brus and Grace, but he’s not going to fall, he’s adamant that it’s a job, and once she’s out of his sight, he won’t think about her again…..Grace is soooooo frustrated with Brus! She knows they would be good together, he just won’t let her in!

And the secret that is brewing between them? (I guessed it practically straight away 😉) it’s going to test both of them!

Can Brus really overcome his hate? Will Grace be the one to help him? Or will it all end on heartbreak?

Good plot, great main characters, and really great secondary characters. Which I’m hoping will get books 😉 the descriptions of the lands had me clearly seeing them, the castle in all its majestic glory. This could have been a series/film. And I would have watched it.

Think Poldark or Outlander (without the time travel)

Another really good historical read. 👍🏻

Copy  supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B🦋

Follow: Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Newsletter

Author Julie Johnstone first fell in love with romance fifteen years ago when she picked up her first romance novel in an airport gift shop on the way to Conroe, Texas for a family reunion and spent her whole weekend reading rather than water skiing, which up until then was one of her favorite things to do.

Julie is staying up way too late and typing furiously on her keyboard to finish her next book or blog with her fellow authors at Ladyscribes. Julie is married to an amazing lawyer and when she is not running her two precocious children to one activity or another she is trying to seek out some time to stay in shape and see her dearest friends.

Share

Mating Season by Kitty Thomas-review & giveaway tour

Posted on by
13

Mating Season by Kitty Thomas-review & giveaway tour

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 17, 2024

Pop Quiz: You’re a woman alone in the forest… would you rather run into a man or a bear?

I’m lost out in the woods when I cross paths with a strange man. He offers to take me back to his campsite, feed me, get me warm, but every instinct in me screams NO!

He is an opportunistic predator, and I am his prey.

I run. He chases. And just before I’m traumatized for life, I hear a loud roar as a seven hundred pound Grizzly bear rips the man off me and mauls him to death.

So…. Team Bear?

If only it were so simple. This isn’t just any normal bear. He’s a bear shifter, and he’s convinced I’m his fated mate.

I appreciate the life saving and all, but I have goals and dreams, and I won’t allow fate to play matchmaker for me, no matter how otherwise appealing the shifter in question may be.

•••••

REVIEW:Not read this author before, but I do love a fated mate/shifter romance. Apparently this author is known for her darker reads. It has a little element of dark, enough for a trigger warning, but I’d say it’s grey rather than dark (my personal opinion.)

It’s a short read, easily read in an afternoon. But that’s not to say it’s not detailed and well thought out.

Rosalie thought that hiking out in the woods in the day was ok. Then it wasn’t…. Getting lost, then watching as the sun disappeared has Rosalie worried! Things escalate quickly, almost being attacked by a man offering help (hmm, that sounded dodgy before he turns nasty!) luckily (but not for the assailant) she’s rescued? by a bear! Rosalie faints…..

And then the bear takes her to a cave and cuddles her!! (Me. I’d be freaking out!!) falling asleep, she just hopes that when she wakes up the bear doesn’t attack her! (I did wonder why she didn’t try to escape! But if he has her in his arms, then maybe she can’t! 🤔)

Cooper is minding his own business, when he comes across a man attacking a woman, but before he can shift and rescue the woman, his bear has other ideas! Mauling the male quietens the beast, and the Cooper makes the discovery….. the female is his mate! And that’s why his bear attacked! And taking her back to his cave seemed like the logical thing to do….

Trying to convince Rosalie that she is his mate (fated mate to be precise) has Cooper frustrated! But if he’s careful and patient, then his reward will be a mate. But Rosalie tests his patience a lot! 😆 She doesn’t believe him, she doesn’t want a husband either! She’s got a life plan and that doesn’t include him! But whilst she can’t walk (and leave) he has a chance to convince her.

But Rosalie is stubborn, she finds a way to escape….

And every time Cooper finds her.

But her last escape attempt could be her last!!

Vampires are always on the lookout for humans who haven’t finished the mating bond (it’s a long story, you’ll have to read to find out more) and if captured they are drained or kept as “pets”! And that’s the situation Rosalie finds herself in now!!

It does have elements of danger. But it’s got funny moments too.

I liked how Rosalie is introduced to the shifter world. I laughed as she constantly refused to believe Cooper. He even threw in the fact he’s a rich bear! But the fact she doesn’t want/need or require a mate is a refreshing change. So many characters just accept it story ended,. Cooper has the patience of a saint! But after seeing his brother literally pine away after his mate rejected him, Cooper has one choice, convince Rosalie they are meant to be together.

So can Cooper really convince Rosalie that they are meant to be together? Or will he have to accept that she doesn’t want him or the life he can give her? Will he let her walk away? Can he let her walk away, or will his bear take matters into its own hands (or paws?)

I love how authors find their inspiration. And this one was done about a debate from social media.

So, are you team bear or not?

Me….. #teambearalltheway 😜

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B 🦋

NOTE: The excerpt contains strong language that may not be suitable for anyone under 18 years of age.

I start to move off the dance floor when someone comes up behind me. A male someone. My first instinct is to have an embarrassing freak out… but he smells… wow he really smells good. What is that?
It’s strong yet subtle at the same time. Warm, musky. But also mossy. But somehow in a good way. I’m not sure I’m describing it right. I’m not sure mere words could convey it.
And the solid warmth of him pressed up against my back feels… comforting somehow. His hands skim my sides to land on my hips as he urges me to move with him. His erection grinds shamelessly against my backside as his arm wraps around my waist, urging me to press harder against his length.
It’s a heady cocktail of that powerful scent, pure masculine strength, sensuous movements, and stark primal possession.
He hasn’t spoken a word to me, and given recent traumatic events, I should be panicked, but all I feel is calm—and other things I’m going to ignore. Dark animal things.
I’m hit with a bolt of such overwhelming lust that suddenly I want this man more than anything I’ve ever wanted. I want him to hike up my skirt and fuck me right here in the middle of the dance floor. I want him to put me on my hands and knees and drive into me from behind in front of all these people—sweaty, writhing hot bodies that could never compete with the inferno building between us. I feel hot and cold all at once and the arousal between my legs thumps heavy with the beat of the music. The pornographic images flitting through my mind only grow stronger the longer we dance.
If you could call this dancing.
One of his hands has moved up to grip the front of my throat, holding me in place against him as he brings us impossibly closer. His other hand starts to slide up my thigh, under my dress, between my legs, his fingers barely brushing against the heat and wetness of my panties.
And then my fear starts to edge out my lust. No! I can’t let this happen.
Forgive me if I don’t want to just jump back out there and let a man touch me after… the woods. It’s normal to feel a bit of disgust toward all men when one tries to hurt you like that. It almost feels shameful to let any man touch you ever again.
So why the fuck am I letting this stranger so close? Why am I rewarding any man for the bad behavior of his kind? Bad behavior I have personally suffered. I don’t know him. He could be a fucking serial killer.
I come back to my senses and pull away. He grabs me and pulls me back to him, and instead of more fear, I feel a kind of rage I’ve never felt before. I stomp down HARD on his foot with my heel. He lets out a yelp, and releases me.
“Rosalie, wait!”
I shouldn’t be able to hear him over the noise of the club, but I do. I turn around, and there’s Cooper. I shouldn’t be surprised. Didn’t some small part of me subconsciously just know? It’s why I didn’t look back at him—just let him be a stranger, because the stakes are far too high with him as he really is.
He’s wearing jeans and a black T-shirt that pulls tight over his muscles. His tattoos wind down his arms, ending just above his hands. Those warm brown eyes… that closely shaven beard… No. Absolutely not. His agenda might not look as bad on the surface as the guy from the woods, but it still involves his fucking boner… and controlling me. No. I’m not his mate. I’m not dealing with this alpha bro You belong to me, bullshit. I’m not going to just swoon into his arms because he’s pretty and saved me, as though a man doing the decent thing somehow now obligates me to give all my freedom away to him.
Men really are just living on an entirely different planet.
And he doesn’t get to just decide any of this.
I fight to get through the crowd on the dance floor, but his hand is around my wrist before I can get away.
“Let GO of me!”
A few people start to notice the conflict and back away, and I see a bouncer eyeing us. I’m pretty sure even as large as the bouncer is, that Cooper could take him.
He holds his hands up in surrender and takes a step back. “Just talk to me. I just need to talk to you.”


 

KITTY THOMAS writes dark stories that play with power and have unconventional HEAs. She began publishing in early 2010 with her bestselling COMFORT FOOD and is considered one of the original authors of the dark romance subgenre.

To find out FIRST when a new book comes out, subscribe to Kitty’s New Release List: KITTYTHOMAS.COM

Author links:

Website / Instagram/ Goodreads/ Facebook/ Amazon Author Page/

 

NOTE: The Reading Cafe is NOT responsible for the rafflecopter giveaway. If you have any questions, please contact the promoter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Share

Loren (Van Doren 1) by Crea Reitan -review tour

Posted on by
14

Loren (Van Doren 1) by Crea Reitan -review tour

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 11, 2024

I will kill to keep him.

Oakley

It’s a new start – brand new school in a completely different state. For the first time, I now have the freedom to be unapologetically me. But as my luck would have it, I have shit taste in men. The first man to pay me a compliment has so many red flags, I think I’m in a storm. Life can’t get any worse… until he turns into a stalker.

Then my stalker ends up brutally murdered, I walk blindly into a serial killer’s nest, and I catch the attention of a sociopath.

Loren

The moment I see Oakley walk into the cafe, I know he’s mine. I may be here to finish a job, but it’s impossible to concentrate on anything but him. My fascination quickly turns into an obsession, which might be fortunate for him because I think he’s trying to get himself killed.

Which is fine; I’ll protect him. It doesn’t matter how many lives I have to end to make Oakley mine.

***

This is a LGBT+ story with content not intended for those under 18 years of age due to graphic scenes and situations.

•••••

REVIEW:A new series by one of my favourite authors. This one is darker than her usual works.

Loved that it could be a family series. The Van Doren family are a mega wealthy family. Wide spread in lots of companies, but they specialise in tracking and taking care of undesirables! People who think they are above the law! Each family member has a part to play, and at the end of the line is Loren.

He is what society classes a sociopath! He has no emotions (except where his family and best friend, Noah are concerned.

We first got to see Loren and Oakley in different stories (both set in another series) both had only little parts, but I did hope that Loren would get a book.

He looks at the world in black and white, he does see the logic that most people see, so he takes his social queues from Noah and his family. I loved where he would phone Noah up, then remember to check the time zones! 😆

Oakley comes a bigot family! His brothers (except for Oren, who by the way has a book 😉) and father were narrow minded and absolutely horrid to his brother Oren! Oakley managed to stay under their radar by being quiet and agreeable (which didn’t always work!) but it left him feeling guilty about his brother being the brunt of the families meanness! Getting an opportunity to leave the town in which he grew up in, Oakley takes it and never looks back…..

Meeting Oakley is a life changing moment for Loren. All he can see is him! And when he sees his intended target touch HIS Oakley, then it’s definitely sealed his fate! His brother has to keep Loren from exacting his vengeance! And that has never happened! Loren doesn’t understand what’s happening to him, but with the help of family/dad and his best friend, Loren navigates his way through!

Now that Oakley and his best friends have escaped his family’s clutches, he’s breathing so much easier. And starting a new school means a clean sheet, no one knows his background. And as a bonus, he has his first compliment, swapping numbers and agreeing on a date, Oakley thinks his luck has changed…

Watching the new family move into the house opposite has Oakley and his friends wondering who they are. They don’t realise at first it’s because Loren wants to be near Oakley, but then the two houses become friends (it’s funny watching the Van Dorens interact with Oakley and friends)

Date one ends in disaster! Red flags and alarms are going off in Oakley’s head! The guy shouldn’t be this possessive and obsessive! But trying to avoid the guy in college is a nightmare too! And he’s also getting the feeling of being watched! Can his week get any weirder?

I love how Oakley feels safe around Loren(even though Loren isn’t a safe guy to be around!) I really liked how the Van Doren family took oakley in and made him feel like family (think they knew how Loren felt about Oakley, they just wanted it in a controlled environment.)

But how will Oakley react when he finds out who Loren really is? Will his friends be right? Has he jumped from the frying pan and into the fire? Poor Oakley thinks he’s jinxed, only attracting kill£rs! 💀

I also liked the issues Loren has with contact (he gets overloaded and has to step back, and then he worries that Oakley won’t understand!)

Please check trigger earrings as so many people aren’t and then giving bad reviews.

Can’t wait to read the next book. 👍🏻🖤

copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B 🦋

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

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

Author Links:

Facebook Group / Facebook / Instagram / TikTok / Website /

Share