Hang Tough (Blacktop Cowboys #8) by Lorelei James-a review

HANG TOUGH (Blacktop Cowboys #8) by Lorelei James-a review

Hang Tough

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 1, 2016

When Tobin Hale stepped in to stop Garnet Evans’s son from railroading her out of her own home, he knew moving in with his favorite Mud Lily could be seen as strange. But nothing prepared him for the arrival of Garnet’s fiery, beautiful granddaughter, Jade—or her assumption that he’s up to no good…

While Tobin might be the hottest man Jade Evans has ever seen, his physical attributes won’t distract her from protecting her grandma from his sweet-talking ways. But the stubborn cowboy digs in his boot heels and refuses to leave. Stuck in close quarters together, Jade learns Tobin is the real deal—a hardworking, fiercely loyal man and she’s the one in danger of losing her heart.

And just when he was prepared to leave Muddy Gap behind, Tobin may have found the kind of woman worth sticking around for.

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: HANG TOUGH is the eighth full-length installment in Lorelei James’s contemporary, adult BLACKTOP COWBOYS erotic, romance series. This is ranch hand Tobin Hale, and Jade Evans’s story line. HANG TOUGH can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Jade and Tobin) HANG TOUGH follows Tobin Hale ( a Blacktop Cowboys series regular) as he comes to the rescue of eighty something granny Garnet Evans. Garnet claims that her ‘absent’ son is trying to take away her freedom following a series of questionable events in her life. Tobin being the shy, sweet natured single, young man he is, offers to move in with Garnet to protect her from what may be coming her way. Enter Jade Evans-Garnet’s only grandchild-and the woman with whom Tobin will fall in love.

Jade Evans loves her grandmother but believes her father is wrong trying to control her grandmother’s life. Meeting her grandmother’s live-in companion Tobin Hale, finds our heroine on both the defensive and offensive when it comes to her grandmother’s protection. What ensues is the building relationship between Tobin and Jade-a relationship that is rooted in family and love.

HANG TOUGH brings together the local Mud Lillies (Pearl, Maybelle, Vivien,Tilda and Bernice)-a tight knit group of elderly ladies who work behind the scenes -aka meddling- ensuring love (among other things) has a chance to grow. Tobin’s long suffering brother Streeter Hale is hoping for another start; and brother Driscoll has chosen sides. Larissa ‘Riss’ takes Jade under her wing as our heroine needs to let loose with the girls. Several of the Split Rock Ranch employees and former story line couples make cameo appearances as well.

HANG TOUGH is a sweet and sexy story about two people brought together by family and love. The premise is entertaining-the story line flows easy; the romance is seductive and erotic-there is plenty of sexual tension between our leading couple; the characters are energetic and fun. HANG TOUGH and the Blacktop Cowboys series will make you want a cowboy of your own.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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What You Need by Lorelei James – Review & Giveaway

What You Need by Lorelei James – Review & Giveaway

 

 

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Description:
As the CFO of Lund Industries, Brady Lund is the poster child for responsibility. But eighty hour work weeks leave him little time for a life outside his corner office. His brothers stage an intervention and drag him to a seedy night club…where he sees her, the buttoned up blonde from the secretarial pool who’s starred in his fantasies for months.

Lennox Greene is a woman with a rebellious past—which she carefully conceals beneath her conservative clothes. She knows flirting with her sexy, but aloof boss during working hours is a bad idea. So when Brady shows up at her favorite dive bar, sans his usual snappy suit, and catches her cutting loose, she throws caution aside and dares him to do the same.

After sparks fly, Brady finds keeping his hands off Lennox during office hours is harder than expected. While she makes him feel alive for the first time in years, a part of him wonders if she’s just using him to get ahead. And Lennox must figure out if Brady wants her for the accomplished woman she is—or the bad girl she was.

 

Review:

The blurb says it all……. “Brady Lund is the poster child for responsibility.” He’s a bit nerdy and geeky with a lot of hotness thrown in. He’s immersed himself in his work to make sure that he lives up to the family name. He doesn’t make much time for fun, so when his brother stage their intervention, he bites and tags along.

Lennox Greene does indeed have a rebellious past, but has made a good life for herself and is working her way up at Lund Industries. When an old family friend calls and asks if she’s forgotten about her old buddies, Lennox decides a night out won’t be too bad and heads out. As she’s having fun with her bar buddies, she is more than surprised to see Mr. Brady Lund himself. In her favorite dive bar of all places.

When Brady and Lennox start to navigate a relationship that she’s intent on keeping secret from her coworkers, there are a few bumps along the way. As they start really falling for each other, a couple of huge misunderstandings throw them both for a loop. And, as they start to try and understand each other’s past, neither is quite sure if they can make it work. But, once things are out in the open, they do indeed find out what they need.

I really enjoyed this book. It’s a bit different from James’ other works, in my opinion. This is a sweetly developed romance with sensuality and two nicely developed characters. I loved that Brady was unsure of himself and not the typical alpha that is all too prevalent in romances today. I loved Lennox as well. A self made woman who picked herself up by her boot straps and works hard to prove to everyone, mostly to herself, that she can do it. She doesn’t take the easy way out of anything. Instead, she meets every obstacle head on. The chemistry between the two was mutual and not one sided, even from the beginning. If you’re looking for a quick, sexy read, this one is definitely for you. I can’t wait for the next!   Well done, Lorelei James! Very well done.

Reviewed by Vickie

Copy provided by Publisher

 

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Lorelei’s publisher is offering a paper copy of WHAT YOU NEED to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

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

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

3. Please LIKE and Follow Lorelei James Facebook

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

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

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

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

8. Giveaway open to USA only

9. Giveaway runs from January 6-10, 2016

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Caged (Mastered #4) by Lorelei James-a review

Caged (Mastered #4) by Lorelei James-a review

Caged

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About the book: Release Date July 14, 2015

In order to survive a life of tragedy, Deacon McConnell embraced his roughest edges and learned to fight on the streets. Then a life-changing jujitsu seminar led by Sensei Ronin Black led Deacon to become a professional fighter. With his muscular physique and his body covered in tattoos and scars, the MMA fighter defines mean, both on and off the mat.

But everything changes when innocent Molly Calloway signs up for his kickboxing class. Molly is Deacon’s opposite in every way: She’s kind, sweet, thoughtful, and educated. After a heated argument between them turns into a passionate encounter, Deacon realizes Molly is eager to experience more, and she looks to him to take her to the darker edge of lust….

The last thing either of them expects is how deeply their lives will be thrown upside down by the passion they find together.

Review:
When Molly first met Deacon, she was intimidated. She had been attacked and wanted to take her life back. She enrolled in his kickboxing class to learn to defend herself and excelled. Even though Deacon piqued her interest, she knew she wasn’t in his league. The initial relation that developed between them was one of sarcastic quips and barbs and mutual admiration, even though neither knew of the other’s thoughts. We’ve seen the friendship build over the last few books and I knew this would be a good one. And, I was NOT disappointed.

Caged begins with Presley, Molly’s friend and co-worker, taking Molly out for a girls night out….to a strip club. And, who does Molly encounter in said club? Deacon McConnell. Molly turns on her heal and heads the other way, only to have Deacon intercept her. As they trade quips, Deacon does the darnedest thing. He kisses her and they both know their lives will never be the same. Even though Deacon had asked Molly out on a date over a year ago, and pulled a no-show, Molly is enchanted with the big, bad and sexy Deacon. As they discuss their “relationship”, they decide to see where all of this will lead them. They both know they have some obstacles to overcome and they both have their secrets, but what follows will draw them to each other like nothing they ever expected.

Molly receives a call about a death in the family and has to leave town quickly, only to be belittled once again by her a$$hat cousins who have done nothing but shame and bully her since they were kids. Molly just wants to get things taken care of and get back to Denver and as far away from them as she can. There is one other catch, though. She didn’t tell Deacon she was leaving and when he shows up in her hometown and tracks her down at the motel, he is not a happy camper. He tells her that if they are going to be together, then they are going to be together in every way. He does a wonderful job of supporting her while she deals with what’s left of her family and they finally head back to Denver. But, when things start happening in Deacon’s life that cause him to have to face his devastating childhood and his own family, he has a hard time reciprocating with Molly.

As they head to Texas to meet with his family, it doesn’t take Molly long to figure out that Deacon has demons that he will have to deal with. Unfortunately, he develops tunnel vision and while dealing with his family, he doesn’t even realize, until it’s too late, that Molly left and headed back to Denver. Will Deacon be able to overcome his past in order to forge a future with Molly? Or, will he forever be Caged by his past? You’ll just have to read to find out…………

Oh my sweet Jesus! I LOVED THIS BOOK! Molly is someone that everyone would want in their corner. She has taken her life back in a big way and does not take any crap off of anyone. Including Deacon. Her childhood was something horrible, but she created a life for herself and never looked back. She’s tough, spunky, smart and very independent. That brings me to Deacon. I do think that he is my favorite hero that I’ve read about in a loooooong time. Bless his bones. He’s so thick headed about how relationships work, but at the same time, he tells her that he doesn’t have a clue. You will laugh your butt off at the things he says. He truly does mean well, but has no idea how to say the things that he’s supposed to. And, his swagger will leave you drooling. Even though his early childhood was very different than Molly’s, the loss that he suffers as a teenager will break your heart. And, the big revelation at the end?? Did NOT see that coming. I only hope that Ms. James will let us in on what’s going on with them in future books.

Caged is a wonderfully written story that is ultimately about not being defined by one’s past and forging ahead and making a life, even though you’re not sure exactly how to do it. It’s about learning to trust and to share yourself with your partner, even though you’re scared spitless! I absolutely adore this series and the characters in it. It’s one of my absolute favorite series, and if you’ll give it a chance, it will be one of your favorites too. Well done, Lorelei James! Very, very, very well done!!

Copy supplied by the publisher

Reviewed by Vickie M

series spotlight

BoundBound
The Mastered Series #1
by Lorelei James
Release Date: February 4, 2014

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Click HERE for Vickie’s review of BOUND

About the book: Release Date February 4, 2014

Former small-town girl Amery Hardwick is living her dream as a graphic designer in Denver, Colorado. She’s focused on building her business, which leaves little time for dating—not that she needs a romantic entanglement to fulfill her. When her friend signs up for a self-defense class as part of her recovery after an attack, Amery joins her for support. That’s where she meets him.

Ronin Black, owner of the dojo, is so drawn to Amery that he takes over her training—in public and in private. The enigmatic Ronin pushes Amery’s boundaries from the start, and with each new tryst, Amery becomes addicted to the pleasure and to him. But when Amery senses Ronin is hiding something, she questions her total trust in him, despite the undeniable thrill of his possession.

_______________

UnwoundUnwound
Mastered #2
by Lorelei James
Release Date: March 25, 2014
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance

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

Click HERE for Vickie’s review of UNWOUND

About the book: Release Date March 25, 2014

When sensei Ronin Black first encounters Amery Hardwick, the fire in her eyes ignites a sexual spark a thousand times better than the primal rush he used to get from mixed martial arts matches. She accepts his darker edges and admits to him that her desires aren’t as wholesome as he believed. And before long Ronin is grappling with emotions he’s never felt before….

Yet despite demanding Amery bare her body and soul to him, Ronin holds a part of himself back. When she learns Ronin’s secret and walks out, his life begins to unravel. To regain her trust he must let go of his pride and prove to her that it’s more than passion binding them together. But after their private pleasures are made public, Ronin is unsure if he’s the right man for Amery. Can they face the consequences together? Or will their differences rip them apart?

____________________

SchooledSchooled
Mastered 2.5
by Lorelei James
Release Date: December 2, 2014
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic romance

Click HERE for Vickie’s review of SCHOOLED

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About the book: Release Date December 2, 2014

When Amery Hardwick first met martial arts master Ronin Black, she wasn’t ready for the level of his sensual artistry or his need for extreme control. Nor was she prepared for the primal urges it released in her. Amery and Ronin were made for each other.

When they married they were certain their future would be a fulfilling journey of love and passion. But happily ever after is never so simple. Six months later, while in Japan, Ronin is training with his sensei, while Amery is consumed by her own burgeoning career and a culture shock with which she is struggling to adapt.

Now, from the heady pleasures of Tokyo bondage houses to the unyielding family traditions pulsing with every beat of Ronin’s heart, Amery and Ronin find the limits of their relationship tested once again, and shocked to discover what they’re willing to do in order to save it.

__________________

UnraveledUnraveled
Mastered #3
by Lorelei James
Release Date: March 3, 2015
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic romance

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Click HERE for Vickie’s review of UNRAVELED

Description:
Shiori Hirano and Knox Lofgren are left to run the martial arts program at Black Arts while Ronin Black travels. On the surface, the two highest ranked belts appear to cooperate—but in private, they butt heads constantly, despite the undeniable attraction between them. Soon their power exchanges start to make for a sweltering dynamic in the bedroom…

At first Knox is shocked to be living out his submissive desires, but Shiori sets out to prove that embracing his true sexual nature doesn’t make him a weak man. But even while their sexual relationship grants him a power and fulfillment he finds surprising, there’s no training regimen for the fight that comes with loving a strong woman…

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Unraveled by Lorelei James – Review and Giveaway

Unraveled by Lorelei James – Review and Giveaway

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Unraveled
Mastered #3
by Lorelei James
Release Date: March 3, 2015
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic romance

 

UnraveledAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository / BAM

Description:
Shiori Hirano and Knox Lofgren are left to run the martial arts program at Black Arts while Ronin Black travels. On the surface, the two highest ranked belts appear to cooperate—but in private, they butt heads constantly, despite the undeniable attraction between them. Soon their power exchanges start to make for a sweltering dynamic in the bedroom…

At first Knox is shocked to be living out his submissive desires, but Shiori sets out to prove that embracing his true sexual nature doesn’t make him a weak man. But even while their sexual relationship grants him a power and fulfillment he finds surprising, there’s no training regimen for the fight that comes with loving a strong woman…

 

Review:

As the blurb states, Shiori and Knox are left to run Black Art while Ronin and Amery are in Japan for an extended period of time. They have butted heads since the day Shiori walked into Black Arts and their constant barbs at each other only heighten their attraction to each other. They really have no idea about each other’s personal lives until they cross paths at an exclusive club where she plays out her Domme status and Knox does everything from work security to meting out “punishment” for select clientele who seek out his services. However, once they embark on a personal relationship and he realizes Shiori is a Dominant, he knows that he could never be a submissive…… Or could he? With both of their boundaries pushed, can they find what they’re both looking for? Or will they both be unraveled?

OH MY SWEET JESUS!!! I loved this book!! I have waited for this story since we first met Shiori and it did not disappoint. As a matter of fact, it was even better than I imagined it would be. Their constant jabs they throw at each other keep the story moving at a fast pace. He calls her She Cat and she calls him obKnoxious, among other things. I believe it caught them both off guard when they figured out how perfectly suited they were for each other. Of course, there are bumps along the way that have to be dealt with. And BIG changes…… Let’s just say that when Ronin gets back from Japan he sets things in motion that affect everyone. The supporting characters are awesome as well in this series. Hopefully, we’ll get to hear more about them in future books. Unraveled is ultimately a story about coming to terms with one’s past and perceived present in order to pave their future. And what a future it is. Well done, Lorelei James. Very very very well done!

Reviewed by Vickie

Copy provided by Publisher

 

giveawayLorelei’s publisher is offering a paper copy of UNRAVELED to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

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

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

3. Please LIKE and Follow Lorelei James Facebook

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

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

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

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

8. Giveaway open to USA only

9. Giveaway runs from March 9-13, 2015

 

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Schooled (Mastered 2.5) by Lorelei James-a review

Schooled (Mastered 2.5) by Lorelei James-a review

Schooled

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About the book: Release Date December 2, 2014

When Amery Hardwick first met martial arts master Ronin Black, she wasn’t ready for the level of his sensual artistry or his need for extreme control. Nor was she prepared for the primal urges it released in her. Amery and Ronin were made for each other.

When they married they were certain their future would be a fulfilling journey of love and passion. But happily ever after is never so simple. Six months later, while in Japan, Ronin is training with his sensei, while Amery is consumed by her own burgeoning career and a culture shock with which she is struggling to adapt.

Now, from the heady pleasures of Tokyo bondage houses to the unyielding family traditions pulsing with every beat of Ronin’s heart, Amery and Ronin find the limits of their relationship tested once again, and shocked to discover what they’re willing to do in order to save it.

••••••••••••••••••••

Review:

Schooled begins with Amery and Ronin embarking on a trip to Japan where Ronin will train with his sensei. Before he starts his training though, he shows Amery around Japan to try and make her more comfortable with the culture before he becomes engrossed in his training. They have a wonderful time, but before too long, it’s time to start his training. And, even though he’s prepared Amery for the fact that he will be totally, totally engrossed in his training, she has a hard time not being the center of his world. And, when she takes it upon herself to finally seek out his training facility to try and find out more about that part of his world, she comes face to face with one who will become a dear friend and explain more to her than she ever thought she’d understand about Ronin and his sensei. With knowledge comes power, and with power comes true enlightenment into their relationship, for them both…..So, who is truly schooled? You’ll have to read it to find out………..

Schooled is a wonderfully written continuation of Amery and Ronin’s story that lets us all see a bit more of what makes Ronin tick. It also lets us see that Amery if finally maturing in their relationship and can hold her own. I’ve said it before about this series, but I feel the need to remind everyone that even though we have bad (rich) boy and relationship naïve girl, this series has such a different spin on it that it leaves you wanting more after every book. And, oh my sweet Jesus………..The last scene between Ronin and his sensei? I’m literally tearing up just typing about it……Such a powerful scene for someone whom we’ve never met before, but has played such an important part in Ronin’s life. I can’t wait for the next one in this series!! Well done, Lorelei James, very very well done!!

Reading Order
Bound
Unwound
Schooled
Unraveled (March 3, 2015)

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Vickie M.

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Hillbilly Rockstar (Blacktop Cowboy #6) by Lorelei James-Review and Giveaway

Hillbilly Rockstar (Blacktop Cowboy #6) by Lorelei James-Review and Giveaway

Hillbilly Rockstar Banner

HILLBILLY ROCKSTAR
(Blacktop Cowboy #6)
by Lorelei James
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic romance

Hillbilly Rockstar

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 5, 2014

She’s protecting his body and guarding her heart…

Country music star Devin McClain understands there’s a downside to life in the public eye, but the laidback Wyoming cowboy has never imagined he’d attract crazed fans who would do anything to garner his attention. When veiled threats become real, he agrees to hire a discreet security detail. But Devin is shocked when that bodyguard is a hard-bodied woman. He’s even more stunned to be attracted to the steely-eyed stunner.

Former soldier Liberty Masterson’s return to civilian life has been wrought with challenges until she lands a job with a prestigious security firm. But when she agrees to provide personal protection during a cross-country tour, she doesn’t realize she has signed up to masquerade as the playboy star’s girlfriend. Though she’s more comfortable in combat boots than high heels, she has no choice but to appear to be the sexy groupie Devin prefers.

Living in close quarters causes the chemistry between them to ignite, and Devin realizes he wants to turn their charade of a romance into reality. Although Liberty surrenders to his every whim behind closed doors, she fears the sexy country star doesn’t see the real her; and Devin can’t help but worry when the tour ends that there might not be enough between them to build something that won’t fade away…

••••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: HILLBILLY ROCKSTAR is the sixth instalment in Lorelei James’s adult, contemporary Blacktop Cowboy erotic romance series focusing on a group of friends and family from Wyoming. This is country music superstar Devin McClain and former soldier now bodyguard Liberty Masterson’s storyline. Although this is the sixth book in the series it can be read as a stand alone without any problems. A few of the previous storyline characters make a cameo appearance but their history is not necessary to the enjoyment of the story.

The focus of the story are the threats against musician Devin McClain. Following the near fatal beating of his tour bus driver, Devin’s production team hire a bodyguard who must stick by Devin 24/7. What Devin doesn’t expect is hard nosed, former soldier Liberty Masterson –his home town friend’s sister in law and a woman in whom he has no sexual interest. Liberty is a take no prisoners kind of bodyguard. She has been hired to guard and protect Devin McClain but life on the road is difficult when groupies, wanna-bes and fans surround Devin at every opportunity.

As the storyline develops, so too does the relationship between Devin and Liberty. When Liberty is required to pose as Devin’s new personal assistant, it doesn’t take long before our couple develop feelings for one another. The sex scenes are hot, sensual and erotic. Nothing is off limits and Devin likes to spice up their sex life at every opportunity.

The secondary characters include the members of the band, as well as the roadies, tour bus operators and some fans. We get up close and personal with Liberty’s extended family; the band; and anyone who has anything to do with the security team assigned to protect the country star.

Lorelei James takes the reader behind the scenes and onto the tour bus of the rich and famous of country music. The world building connects opening acts with the main attraction; friendships develop and relationships heal. The storyline energy builds throughout the novel where there are intense moments of anger, betrayal, heartbreak and love. HILLBILLY ROCKSTAR is a passionate look at two people from different worlds who find one another at a dangerous time in both of their lives.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

About The author

 

Lorelei-Jamesjpg

 

Lorelei James is the USA Today and New York Times bestselling author of the Blacktop Cowboys and Rough Riders series as well as the steamy new Mastered series. She lives in the Black Hills of western South Dakota with her family.

 

 

giveaway

Lorelei and her publisher are offering a paper copy of HILLBILLY ROCKSTAR to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1. Please register using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

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

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

4. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry

5. LIKE  Lorelei James  on Facebook.

6. The giveaway is open to U.S. only.

7. The giveaway runs from August 2  to August 6, 2014

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Unwound (Mastered #2) by Lorelei James-a review

Unwound (Mastered #2) by Lorelei James-a review

Unwound

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Unwound by Lorelei James
Mastered #2
About the book: Release Date March 25, 2014

When sensei Ronin Black first encounters Amery Hardwick, the fire in her eyes ignites a sexual spark a thousand times better than the primal rush he used to get from mixed martial arts matches. She accepts his darker edges and admits to him that her desires aren’t as wholesome as he believed. And before long Ronin is grappling with emotions he’s never felt before….

Yet despite demanding Amery bare her body and soul to him, Ronin holds a part of himself back. When she learns Ronin’s secret and walks out, his life begins to unravel. To regain her trust he must let go of his pride and prove to her that it’s more than passion binding them together. But after their private pleasures are made public, Ronin is unsure if he’s the right man for Amery. Can they face the consequences together? Or will their differences rip them apart?

Review:
Unwound picks up not long after Bound ends. Ronin and Amery are still apart, and miserable without each other. To deaden the pain, Ronin decides to step back into the MMA ring. Never mind that he’s older than he used to be, he just wants to feel something other than his breaking heart. And, boy, does he feel something. After being beaten half to death, he makes his way to Amery’s where he has to be rushed to the ER once she sees just how badly he’s injured.

Once he’s released from the hospital, they start to try and rebuild their relationship, but they have a lot of work ahead of them. They both have issues from their past that need to be dealt with. First and foremost, trust. Once Ronin finally starts to share with Amery, someone from his past shows up and wreaks havoc, not only for him, but for Amery as well. Amery and Ronin, for the most part, present a united front, until Ronin discovers that Amery has withheld something from him that makes him question her motives from the beginning. Even though he knows down to his toes that she had no malicious intent, can he really give not only his body, but his heart and soul over to her as well? Will they both take a chance on each other, or as the title insinuates, will their relationship be completely Unwound?

Love love loved this book! Once again, James has done a wonderful job of telling her characters’ stories. Bound was more from Amery’s point of view, but Unwound was more Ronin’s. We get to see what makes them both so insecure on the one hand, and what makes them so dynamic as a couple on the other. The supporting characters are AWESOME!! I can only hope that we get to hear more about Ronin’s sister and some of the others. This series, in my humble opinion, could easily support another book or two. If I had any complaint about this one, it would only be that it was a bit slower than the first in the series, but once it gets rolling……………..hang on!! Surely to goodness, she’ll write another?!?!?! I think I said before that this series is my first by Lorelei James, but it will NOT be my last. Very well done Lorelei James, very well done!!

Reading Order
1. Bound
2. Unwound

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Vickie M.

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Bound by Lorelei James-Review and Giveaway

Bound by Lorelei James-Review and Giveaway

BOUND Giveaway Banner

Bound
The Mastered Series #1
by Lorelei James
Release Date: February 4, 2014

Bound

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

About the book: Release Date February 4, 2014

Former small-town girl Amery Hardwick is living her dream as a graphic designer in Denver, Colorado. She’s focused on building her business, which leaves little time for dating—not that she needs a romantic entanglement to fulfill her. When her friend signs up for a self-defense class as part of her recovery after an attack, Amery joins her for support. That’s where she meets him.

Ronin Black, owner of the dojo, is so drawn to Amery that he takes over her training—in public and in private. The enigmatic Ronin pushes Amery’s boundaries from the start, and with each new tryst, Amery becomes addicted to the pleasure and to him. But when Amery senses Ronin is hiding something, she questions her total trust in him, despite the undeniable thrill of his possession.

••••••••••••••••••

Oh my sweet Jesus………..I.LOVED.THIS.BOOK. Amery was raised by very strict, very Christian parents and is still, in a sense, still trying to discover who she really is. She’s already pretty accomplished in her professional life, but she feels that her personal life is lacking. Enter Ronin Black. I have not been this enthralled with the hero of a book in a long time. And, evidently, neither has Amery! *snort* He is sensual personified. And, once they lock onto each other, things really get steamy.

They begin seeing each other and things go pretty quickly. Amery’s friends are a little wary of Ronin, but Amery just brushes it off. He’s hot and into her. What could be wrong with that?? But, she soon realizes that there is more to the mysterious Ronin Black than meets the eye. He disappears from time to time, not for too long, but enough that she begins to question things and he’s evasive, which doesn’t sit well with her. She begins to distance herself, but Ronin will not have it. Yep, he’s a man used to getting what he wants. And? He wants her.

There is so much I want to say about this book. It is wonderfully written, grabbing you from the beginning. Ronin Black was a very pleasant surprise for me. He, at least for me, is different from the others in this genre. He’s used to getting what he wants, but not as “hard” as others I’ve read about. He, like I said before, is sensual personified. Amery is a great heroine and I love her as well. These two fit together better than any pair I’ve read about in a long time. And, I knew that there was something big that we didn’t know about Mr. Black, but holy cow!!! I did NOT see that coming at the end of the book. I also didn’t know that this was a series devoted to the two of them, or at least, I’m guessing that’s what it is. Because the book ends with a major revelation and I can’t wait for the next installment. This is the first book I’ve read by Lorelei James, but, my friends, I guarantee you that it won’t be the last. I am chomping at the bit for the next one. If you read this one, you will be too!!! Very well done Lorelei James, very very well done!!!

Copy supplied by the publisher.

Reviewed by Vickie M.

About The Author Black and Yellow

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Lorelei JamesWhen I’m not squirreled away behind my laptop writing fun, sexy, contemporary erotic romances set in the modern day Wild West, I can be found reading everything under the sun, practicing yoga until I’m a pretzel, shootin’ my .22, watching the Professional Bull Riders tour on Versus, and running a kid’s taxi service, all in the guise of avoiding housework and rustlin’ up vittles.

Why do I have a particular fondness for all things western? Well, I’m a fourth generation South Dakotan, living in the Black Hills, which is chock-full of interesting characters, including cowboys, Indians, ranchers, and bikers. The geographical diversity of the surrounding area showcases mountains, plains, and badlands. Living in and writing about rural settings gives me a unique perspective, especially since I’m not writing historical westerns. Through my fictional world, I can show the ideals and the cowboy way of life are still very much alive.

Giveaway-Black and Yellow

Lorelei James and Penguin Groups are offering a paper copy of BOUND to one lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1. Please register using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

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

3. Giveaway open to USA only.

4. Giveaway runs from January 28 to February 1, 2014

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