King Tomb (Forever Evermore #3) by Scarlett Dawn-a review

King Tomb (Forever Evermore #3) by Scarlett Dawn-a review

King Tomb

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 8, 2014

Queen Shifter, Lily Ruckler, has found solace in brutal warfare. Her bloodied fists and bared fangs fill the holes left in her memory, the blank spaces that leave her soul aching and empty. Her only pleasure is in blood; her only salvation is the relationship she has with her infant child, the baby of unknown origins who brings her solace and stability.

When Elder Harcourt summons Lily and her protector Antonio back to the United States, Lily thinks nothing unusual about the change of location. But a standard reconnaissance mission leaves her trapped inside King Zeller’s private quarters, and at his mercy. Surprise attraction rapidly turns to a battle of wills and an intense power struggle that leaves no clear victor but plenty of resentment.

They are not allowed to nurse their wounds. In order to win the war against the Commoners, the King Vampire and Queen Shifter must work together. It should be easy. The war is turning, the battle is deadly, and both Lily and Ezra love the cold cleanliness of combat. But their chance meeting has led to more than an unlikely alliance. Secrets have a way of surfacing, especially on a torn-up battlefield, and Lily and Ezra are about to re-learn all they cannot remember. If they can’t control their emotions and responses, it will be to their own ruin and the destruction of everything around them.

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: KING TOMB is the third instalment in Scarlett Dawn’s new adult, paranormal ‘first’ Forever Evermore Trilogy. Told from first person POV (Lily) King Tomb is the conclusion to Lily and Ezra’s story-one that began as adult students in King Hall-where Lily (wolf shifter) and Ezra (vampire) were trained to one day take over as King of the Vampires and Queen of the Shifters. KING TOMB sees Lily and Ezra fighting a war against the Coms (commoner/humans) all the while fighting the knowledge that their minds have been wiped and there are black holes where memories were once stored. The storyline advances the series twelve to eighteen months.

The focus of KING TOMB finds Lily embroiled in her own personal war –a new mother who has no recollection about the past-a past that directly affects her daughter and her own mind. Returning to the United States, she will be placed in direct contact with the man who once called to her heart but missing pieces of information and lost memories feed the hatred and ambivalence she now feels towards the vampire she used to love. While Lily and Ezra work to stop a war with the humans, the Elders work towards a peaceful reconciliation between their King and Queen. But magic is at work and the Elders are having a difficult time extrapolating the truth.

There is an immediate attraction between Ezra and Lily-one that does not go unnoticed by the Elders and one that is born out of a previous love. But when the mind is wiped clean of the past, no one is sure where they stand and whose side they are on. The one constant and important tie is a small three month old child whose DNA cannot deny her heritage or her parents.

The secondary characters drive a good portion of the storyline and there are new revelations and declarations of love from an unlikely source but a love that has lingered for years. We get an up close and personal look at Lily Ruckler and Ezra Zeller’s fathers-a trio of men whose own lives are becoming more complicated.

As for secondary characters, throughout the first two instalments King Jack (Mage) and Queen Pearl (Elemental) were a fixture in the storylines-best friends with Lily and Ezra-but two characters whose existence or presence in King Tomb was almost negligible until the end. They appear to have been forgotten or pushed aside.

KING TOMB is the final instalment in this trilogy. The storyline ends with a hint of more to come but one that does not necessarily focus on Lily and Zeller. There is a quick resolution to this story-a rush to the finish-one that left me questioning what happened and why. As Lily and Ezra travelled back in time-there is no real explanation as to how and why. This particular part of the storyline came out of nowhere, seemingly unquestioned by most of the people involved and one that left me with mixed feelings about the ending. There is a HEA but not necessarily one for this reader.

Reading Order
1. King Hall
2. King Cave
3. King Tomb

Copy supplied by Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Rock Addiction (Rock Kiss #1) by Nalini Singh-Blog Tour and a dual review

Rock Addiction (Rock Kiss #1) by Nalini Singh- Blog Tour and a Dual Review

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Rock Addiction
Rock Kiss .5
by Nalini Singh
Genre: NA, contemporary, romance, rock
Release Date: September 9, 2014

Rock Addiction cover

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About the book: Release Date September 9, 2014

A bad boy wrapped in a sexy, muscled, grown-up package might be worth a little risk…

Molly Webster has always followed the rules. After an ugly scandal tore apart her childhood and made her the focus of the media’s harsh spotlight, she vowed to live an ordinary life. No fame. No impropriety. No pain. Then she meets Zachary Fox, a tattooed bad boy rocker with a voice like whiskey and sin, and a touch that could become an addiction.

A one-night stand with the hottest rock star on the planet, that’s all it was meant to be…

Fox promises scorching heat and dangerous pleasure, coaxing Molly to extend their one-night stand into a one-month fling. After that, he’ll be gone forever, his life never again intersecting with her own. Sex and sin and sensual indulgence, all with an expiration date. No ties, no regrets. Too late, Molly realizes it isn’t only her body that’s become addicted to Fox, but her heart…

•••••••••••••••••

Sandy’s Review

ROCK ADDICTION is the first storyline in Nalini Singh’s new adult, contemporary Rock Kiss series focusing on the members of the American rock band Schoolboy Choir. This is sexy, pierced and tattoed lead singer Zachary Fox and demure librarian from New Zealand Molly Webster’s storyline.

Told from close third person POVs, the focus of the storyline is the building relationship between Molly and Fox (as he likes to be called). For Fox there is an immediate attraction-a possessive pull where he instantly knows that Molly is ‘his’. His response is visceral and within a matter of a few minutes, Fox stakes his claim with the other members of the band. Molly on the other hand is a shy, quiet, librarian with low self-esteem and no confidence, whose goal in life is to remain out of the public eye. A horrendous childhood has left Molly with a fear of the media. Molly promises herself one wild night of passion but Fox has something more permanent on his mind. With only one month to claim Molly as his own, Fox fights an uphill battle every time Molly’s inner voice reminds her of their limited time together.

Molly is a naïve, twenty four year old whose history with men is limited and virtually non existent, and in this her emotional reactions were confusing for the reader as well as the new man in her life. There was something almost bi-polar with Molly’s personality when it came to her emotional maturity or lack thereof; or perhaps it was her painful and continuous revelations about her inexperience with men. Numerous misunderstandings and jealous rages seem to be the highlight of Molly’s days. Molly’s past issues control her choices at work and at play.

Zachary Fox is no longer the typical bad boy of rock and roll-he doesn’t drink or do drugs; and there have been no women in his bed for a very long time but that’s not to say he didn’t enjoy the lifestyle before. His early years have also left him with some baggage but he has grown to accept that he cannot change what has happened in the past-but make no mistake, Fox is not without a temper and when he doesn’t get his way, he makes his feelings known. The combination of Fox’s rock and roll lifestyle and experience, and Molly’s naivety did not make for happy bedfellows especially in the early stages of the storyline. Fox is a man who is determined to make their relationship work but Molly’s emotional drama is sometimes too hard to handle.

The relationship is one of insta love/lust especially for Fox. The sex scenes are numerous and frequent. Our couple spent more time having sex than getting to know one another. If their attraction is purely physical, how can a happily ever after be on the horizon? Even our heroine questions if there is anything beyond sex for the couple.

The secondary characters are colorful but stereotypical including the other members of Schoolboy Choir (David, Abe and Noah). We are introduced to Molly’s sister Thea who does PR for the band; and Molly’s best friend Charlotte who is always a phone call away every time Molly’s self esteem takes a dive.

The world building follows the members of Schoolboy Choir on the road, behind the scenes, their private lives and run-ins with the paparazzi and the law. There is the drama of jealousy, addiction and a horde of groupies at every opportunity as well as a hint of what is to come.

ROCK ADDICTION is an entertaining storyline with a HEA but a storyline that fell a little short of my expectations. Nalini is an amazing author of the paranormal but it did not translate well to a contemporary, new adult storyline.

 

Barb’s Review:

Rock Addiction by Nalini Singh is the first book in her new erotic romance series, Schoolboy Choir. I am a huge fan of Nalini, loving her Psy/Changeling and Guild Hunter series. I really looked forward to this book, and Nalini always has wonderful hot steamy sex scenes in those series. Having read Rock Addiction, I have mixed feelings.

The storyline had an excellent premise with a rock band, the lead singer and the innocent young girl he falls for. Nalini always creates great leading and secondary characters, and it’s no different in this book.I liked Molly, the sweet innocent librarian, who found her wild fantasy coming true having what she thought was a one night stand with a Rock god.

Fox, is the hot sexy rock god, and he knew the moment he saw Molly that she was different, and he was determined to have her at any cost.   The rest of this wonderful cast was very very good. Molly’s sister, Thea and her friend Charlie were great. Fox’s bandmates (David, Noah, Abe) were awesome, and I am sure each will have their story told.

Needless to say, the one night stand becomes more then either expected. Both Molly and Fox had their own childhood issues, which effected their lives. They work together to overcome those issues, and as well as the unwanted attention that fame brings to their privacy. It was a great ending, very nicely done.

With that being said, I would like to note what I was not crazy about in this book. In Nalini’s other series, her wonderful steamy sex scenes complimented the storyline, with her fabulous couples. In Rock Addiction it was kind of opposite. I did enjoy the storyline, and the characters. But I prefer my books to have the storyline be the main part of the book, with this book it was about 85% sex. I enjoy reading all of Nalini’s stories, but the sex scenes in Rock Addiction were in my opinion  an overkill, making it more redundant then fun.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

excerpt

FOX HADN’T BECOME THE LEAD singer of one of the best-selling rock bands in history by being a shrinking violet. No, he went after what he wanted, no holds barred. And the raw promise he could feel between him and Molly? He had to know where it would lead, the need so strong he hadn’t felt anything like it since the day he’d figured out that music was his escape, the air in his lungs.
Which was why he was leaning against the wall beside Molly’s apartment at five that afternoon, a guitar by his side.
The elevator doors opened at a quarter after the hour, Molly going motionless two steps outside of it, the doors closing silently at her back. Yeah, she hadn’t expected him, but Fox was ready to work with that. Waiting patiently as she took a deep breath and completed the trek down the corridor, he drew in the scent of her, his gaze lingering on the fluttering pulse in her neck.
“How did you get past security?”
Fox smiled slowly at the blurted-out question, wondering if Molly knew how bad she was at hiding her emotions. He liked it, liked that he saw the real Molly, not an illusion she’d created to tempt him—not that she had to do anything but smile to tempt him. “I told you the security sucks.”
Unable to resist, he reached out to run his finger down one creamy cheek flushed with a mix of surprise, passion, and, he was certain, sweet, hot feminine anger. His guess was borne out when Molly unlocked her door with jittery hands and put down her handbag on one corner of the bench, her fingers trembling before she curled them into her palms. “You’re breaking the rules.”
“What rules?” Closing the door, he leaned back on it and willed her to face him. Much as he loved the shape of her from the back, he liked watching those expressive eyes whisper her mood to him.
Shoulders tight, she turned. “This was supposed to be a one-night stand.”
“Ah.” Folding his arms over the plain black of his T-shirt, he said, “How about a one-month stand instead?” He knew he had to play this exactly right. Molly was wary of him, and yeah, he could understand why. To have her in his life beyond a fleeting instant, he’d have to win her trust.
She jerked up her head. “What?”
“Why not? I like you. You like me.” He smiled—because the reason Molly had needed to jerk up her head was that she’d been staring at his chest. “Admit it.”
Sitting down on the bench, she began to unzip her boots, very obviously not looking at him. “You’re okay for a rock star.”
He wanted to bite her, then pet her until she was limp and languid in his arms. “We burn up together.” Deliberately modulating his voice—his instrument—for maximum effect, low and bedroom rough, he saw her fingers stutter on the zipper. “I’m here for a month. It’s an easy equation.”
When the words “Let me think about it” fell from her mouth, he thought she might’ve been as startled as he was, her lips parting on a slight gasp—as if to call back the declaration.

Series Spotlight

Rock Courtship
Rock Kiss #2
by Nalini Singh
Genre: NA, contemporary, romance, rock
Release Date: September 30, 2014

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

What happens when the Gentleman of Rock decides to play dirty?

A drummer for the hottest rock band on the planet, David has a single, powerful weakness: Thea, the band’s publicist and the woman who steals his breath away with her every move.

Only problem is, Thea doesn’t date clients—or musicians. Emotionally scarred by a cheating ex, she’s not about to risk her heart with a man who has groupies buzzing around him like flies. Even if his sexy smile ties her up in knots.

What she doesn’t know is that David is a one-woman man…and he’s madly in love with her. David’s determined to prove he’s worth the risk, and willing to court her, step by exquisite step. Thea’s about to discover just how long and hard this handsome drummer can play.

 

About the Author Black and Green

nalini bioNEW YORK TIMES AND USA Today bestselling author of the Psy-Changeling and Guild Hunter series Nalini Singh usually writes about hot shapeshifters and dangerous angels. This time around, she decided to write about a hot and wickedly tempting rock star. If you’re seeing a theme here, you’re not wrong.

Nalini lives and works in beautiful New Zealand, and is passionate about writing. If you’d like to explore her other books, you can find lots of excerpts on her website. Slave to Sensation is the first book in the Psy-Changeling series, while Angels’ Blood is the first book in the Guild Hunter series. Once Rock Addiction is out, swing by the site to check out the special behind-the-scenes page, complete with photos of many of the locations used in the book.

STALK HER:  Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

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Our Broken Sky by Sarah Harian – a Review

Our Broken Sky by Sarah Harian – a Review

 

Our Broken Sky

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Description:
Valerie has always been different from her identical twin Veda. Tattooed, fiery, and foul-mouthed, Valerie acts on instinct, getting even with anyone who wrongs her passive and sensitive sister.

At twenty-two, Veda doesn’t want to seek revenge against the three young men who raped her. As for Val…

Val never could manage her anger well.

As far as Val sees it, the Compass Room is simply a quicker way for her to die—payment for the crime she feels no guilt over. There isn’t a reason to fight, not until a girl as broken as she is reminds Val of what it’s like to hope…

 

 

Review:

Our Broken Sky by Sarah Harian is a novella that continues her Chaos Theory series. This being a novella makes this a difficult review, as anything would be spoilers. I will try to explain and just give you mostly my thoughts. You truly do need to read The Wicked We Have Done, before you attempt to read this book, or it would be way too confusing.   You can read my review on The Wicked We Have Done to understand more.

Our Broken Sky revolves around one of the survivors in The Wicked We Have Done…Valerie. We know that everyone who was sent to the scary Compass Room in the first book, committed a crime, and they were expected to not survive. We know Valerie is gay, and a tough young lady. We learn in this book exactly what her crime was to having been sent to the Compass Room. We learn a lot more about Valerie, and what makes her what she is. Harian does a wonderful job, moving the story back to the Compass Room, and we get to see Valerie’s view of her stay there, and what happened to change her.

I enjoyed reading this story, and learning about what caused her to commit murder, which made us understand a lot more. It was also nice to see her and Jace again, and how Valerie began to soften up, even though she knew her days were numbered. She found true love. We also knew the ending. I can’t say much more, other then this was an excellent filler, as we wait for the next full length novel, A Vault of Sins, coming in September that will bring the survivors of The Compass Room back together. I for one cannot wait. Wonderful writing by Sarah Harian, especially in this short format.  

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

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Mended (Connections #3) by Kim Karr-Blog Tour, Review and Giveaway

MENDED (Connections #3) by Kim Karr-Blog Tour, Review and Giveaway

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Mended
Connections #3
by Kim Karr
Genre: New Adult, romance, contemporary

Mended

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 1, 2014

MUSIC HAS THE POWER TO HEAL ALL…BUT NOT ALL BROKEN HEARTS CAN BE MENDED.

Always in control, Xander Wilde considered life on the road to be a perfect fit for him. But when disaster strikes on the Wilde Ones’ latest tour, fate intervenes…and a newly single Ivy Taylor, the only girl he has ever loved, steps back into his life.

After moving past her painful breakup with Xander years ago, Ivy was poised to become the next big name in pop music…when suddenly she withdrew from the limelight—the same day she announced her engagement to her controlling agent, Damon Wolf.

Xander knows he should keep his distance. But once they’re on the road, he can’t resist pursuing her for a second chance. Yet a jealous Damon can’t let her go—and he’s keeping dangerous secrets that could destroy them all.

When the three of them come together, everything falls apart. But if Xander and Ivy can hold tight to the bond that connects them, they just might have a chance at reclaiming the powerful love they thought they had lost forever….

••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: MENDED is the third full length storyline in Kim Karr’s contemporary, new adult Connections erotic romance series. This is Xander Wilde and Ivy Taylor’s storyline. Xander is the band manager for The Wilde Ones’ and Ivy is the woman he loved and lost over tens years before. While preparing for their upcoming tour the band’s lead singer will be forced to take some time off and Ivy offers herself up as the group’s new lead vocals. Told from alternating first person POV (Xander and Ivy) the novel is a combination of past, present, dream sequences and flashbacks.

The focus of the story is a second chance at love for Xander and Ivy. High school sweethearts and lovers, Xander and Ivy’s relationship would be destroyed by a mistaken belief and family tragedy. Fast forward over a decade later and Xander’s feelings for Ivy have never faltered but Ivy is now promised to another man-one whose aim is to destroy the band and the Wilde family.

Kim Karr pulls the reader into an emotional and tragic tale of first loves, secrets, family rivalry, and betrayal. The Connections series comes full circle with the revelations of the past, the present and possibly the future. Dark and painful secrets will be revealed that will crush a man’s heart when everything he knows to be true has been built upon a lie-a lie that will affect not only his life but the woman that he loves.

The world building continues with the inclusion of the previous storyline characters including The Wilde Ones band members and family. River and Dahlia’s storyline continues with a heartbreaking loss; Aerie Daniels (Dazed) returns with some information that will help Xander in his struggle to save the woman that he loves; and younger sister Bell whose past will be surfacing in the next Connections novel.

MENDED is a story of struggle, lies, loss and guilt. It is a story about one man whose entire life has been based upon a lie and the guilt he has buried for the sins of the past. Kim Karr writes a seductive, moving and dramatic storyline where family secrets can lead to heartbreaking reality; where an idealistic young man finds himself alone without the woman that he loves; and where one moment in time can lead to years of improbable pain.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

Mended-teasers-3

excerpt

 

Excerpt from Mended Connections #3 by Kim Karr © 2013 by Kim Karr
Published by the Penguin Group Release date: June 3, 2014
The magic of rock and roll—it casts a spell on you. I’m no exception. I’m a band manager and I’m living the dream, touring with The Wilde Ones, helping them secure their well-deserved place in the music industry. I love being a part of it all, especially watching the band perform live—the crowds, the cheers, the music. It’s a high and a low all at once and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Every step of the way with this band has been fun, exciting, stressful—every possible emotion. Obviously we’ve had some breaks but mostly we all put in a lot of hard work—myself, Garrett Flynn, Phoenix Harper, River Wilde, and now Zane Perry.
“Can you hear me now?” he bellows.
I nod my head as my heart pounds in my chest. My hands feel cold and clammy and a nervousness that makes me weak and shaky takes over. Doubts race through my head and I’m questioning if he’s going to make it through this. A vague awareness that something bad could happen kicks around in my mind and I can’t shake it. The Wilde Ones are doing a sound check on stage and Zane’s not on his game.
It’s July and the weather has been brutally hot. But today it seems cooler. Maybe it’s the California weather maybe it’s the excitement of being home. The Beautiful Lies Tour bus finally rolled back into our home state of California after six months away. When we pulled into the amphitheater, we could see tanned kids in board shorts and bikini tops already lined up at the will call window. Security guards in polo shirts directed us to the artist parking lot, and we were officially home. Tonight we’ll be headlining our biggest show to date. We’re on tour without my brother, River, and still more than half of the shows are sold out, including tonight’s. River quit the band—touring just wasn’t for him but even so the album is on its way up the charts. Who knows it may even hit gold status.The songs on the album were written and sung by River but are performed in concert by Zane. Having him as my brother’s replacement has been the key to our successful transition in a world where replacing leads is normally unsuccessful—simply put, we’re lucky as hell to have him. River promised to make a surprise appearance at our next stop. It’s going to be epic.
But tonight is all about the arena—Mountain View and the Shoreline. “That’s enough,” I yell to the band and call rehearsal. This place is the biggest outdoor venue we’ve played and I couldn’t be more stoked—or more nervous. A sold out show and a rocking opening band—what a combination. But a lead singer with another cold and a weakened voice that can’t be heard throughout an amphitheater scares the shit out of me.
I head straight for the bus and spend the next few hours hashing out a song with Nix that he calls a jumbled mess of muscular sense and big-riff sunshine—whatever the hell that means. All I know is that it needs help and that’s why he’s turning to me. I hadn’t played guitar since I was eighteen but for some reason over the course of this tour I’ve picked it back up. At first I used whatever was lying around but last month I had my mother mail my old one to me and it feels like home. It’s a light blue and brown Gibson and I had to have it because it was the guitar that Slash played on. Playing again seems to help pass the time and brings a calm over me that I haven’t felt in awhile.
Hours pass and before I know it, it’s almost show time. We make our way over to the Amphitheater, do the typical festival schmooze fest, and then settle back to wait. Waiting for them to take the stage is always the most nerve-racking time. I’m sitting in the practically vacant makeshift meet and greet area back stage and sipping a beer in a worthless effort to calm my nerves when a voice travels through the sound system. It’s a powerful and emotive mezzo-soprano range that is nothing short of explosive. She sounds unlike any singer I’ve ever heard before—with only one exception, Ivy Taylor. I push back the memory of her name and the emotions it evokes—the memories are just too painful. I can’t see her on stage but I know that the voice belongs to Jane Mommsen. Her band Breathless is playing right before The Wilde Ones.
A hand on my shoulder startles me. I twist and glance up as Amy sits down beside me, crossing her legs. “Hi, Xander. I thought I saw you earlier at the hotel.”
She’s a beautiful woman—long, wavy dark hair, petite figure, very natural looking. She’s wearing jeans, a blue shirt with some kind of foil design, and silver sandals. Grinning at her I say, “Finally we catch up. Can I get you a drink?”
“I’d love that. How’s life on the road been?” “You know, it has its ups and downs but actually not bad. You?” “Jane’s been going full-force for a while now. But the tour ends with the summer.
I’ll be glad to be back in LA.” Standing up, I laugh. “I know the feeling. I’ll be right back, let me grab us that
drink.” Tossing my empty bottle, I make my way to the coolers lined up under the tent and grab two beers. I know she’d rather have a glass of Chardonnay but beer it is. Amy is Jane’s assistant and I’ve taken her out more than a few times. We went to high school together and Amy and I know most of the same people so whenever I need a date, I ask her. Last time I saw her was almost nine months ago when I took her to River and Dahlia’s wedding.
Heading back to the table I hear Jane yell out to the crowd, “Are you ready for three of the hottest guys in music?” The audience starts screaming and the stage lights dim cuing the guys that it’s the fifteen-minute countdown until they take the stage. The band huddles together in their typical pre-performance stance. I’ll have a quick drink with Amy and then join them. As I hand her the bottle my fingers touch hers and we both grin, knowing that we will end up alone by the end of the night.
“You sticking around for the whole show?” “I think I might,” she smiles. “How about we ride back to the hotel together and grab a real drink at the bar?” “Sounds like a plan.” “Great. Time for me to get back to work.”
She rises from the table, I do the same. She stands up on her toes and kisses me quickly on the lips. “See you tonight,” she smiles.
“Catch you later,” I say and then cross the room to join the band. “You’re late,” Nix snickers. “What’s with you two anyway?” he asks. I shrug my shoulders. “Nothing. We casually see each other once in a while.” Garrett raises an eyebrow. “Chicks are never cool with casual.”
Shaking my head at him, I don’t bother to disagree. Amy and I have been doing this for years. It works for her and for me. We like each other’s company but only see each other sporadically. I’ll call her once in a while and we’ll go out but we are in no way exclusive. I don’t ask her about other men and she doesn’t ask me about other women. I grab the bottle and pour the amber liquid into the shot glasses stacked on the cap. It’s our pre-show routine. A shot and a prayer, so to say. It’s Garrett’s turn tonight to ‘pray’ so this should be good.
He raises his glass. “Here’s to hoping Xander gets laid so he’ll get off our backs.”
Tipping my glass back, I quickly down the amber liquid. It burns as it makes its way down my throat. Once we’ve all drank our two shot maximum before a show Garrett follows his toast up with, “Seriously man, you need to get laid.”
The guys laugh and I actually join in. Jerking off in the small bathroom on the bus is definitely one of the downsides of touring. I’ve slept with a few girls at some of our stops but screwing groupies isn’t really my thing. I’m not one to have time for a girlfriend but I’m also not about to pull my dick out backstage, so it’s been a long six months.
Zane coughs after he slings back the shot and I look at him with concern. “You’re going to a doctor tomorrow.”
He shakes his head. “Yes, Mom, if you say so.” “I’m not kidding. Your voice sounds like shit.” “It’s a fucking cold. I took some medicine. I’ll be fine.” “Doctor. Tomorrow. I mean it. I’ll have Ena set it up.” “I can always sing,” Garrett chimes in and I smack the back of his head. “Hey. I can.” The lights start to flicker and I look at Zane with that feeling of uneasiness again.
Second time this tour he’s coughing and hacking. We’re screwed if he really gets sick. He nods at me as I pat him on the back. Slinging his guitar over his shoulder, he heads out first raising his arm in the air. The crowd goes crazy. The six foot guy is a chick magnet and no one misses my brother tonight. Garrett heads out next yelling, “Great to be here Mountain View!” and Nix follows with his trademark nod. Zane skips his normal charming banter and I know he must be saving his voice. Again, I think about how we’re fucked if he gets sick.
I stand at the edge of the stage all night until they finally come to their last song. “It Wasn’t Days Ago,” is a simple but crowd affecting ballad and Zane belts it out. Shouts from nearly thirty thousand fans call for an encore. Turning away from the microphone Zane coughs again. Biting his thumbnail he looks over at me and I slice my finger across my neck.
“One more song for tonight,” he tells the screaming fans and my blood pressure rises. “This one is a cover, an ‘ode to’ I’ll call it. It’s for Xander Wilde, the band’s manager and it’s his favorite song. Everyone ready?” As he starts to sing Linkin Park’s “Iridescent,” I close my eyes and listen. When he hits the chorus his voice gets so low my eyes snap open. Zane turns to grab a bottle of water while the guys continue to play but I can tell something isn’t right.
***
Last night definitely didn’t go as planned—a visit to the ER, then sleeping in a chair next to Zane all night on the bus because the steroids he was given freaked him out. It’s noon and Amy and I are just arriving at the Pelican Hill Resort. Breathless was leaving right after the show last night so Amy had already planned to ride with us and meet up with them in Irvine. She invited me to some party being thrown by her band’s label that I would have rather not gone to but Ellie, the tour manager, insisted we all go for the good PR.
I’m exhausted and really need some sleep before dealing with the press and tomorrow night’s show. The paparazzi have been everywhere—by the bus as we exited to the waiting car in LA, outside the doctor’s office, at the gates of Zane’s father’s house, and now they’re here in Irvine at the hotel.
To avoid the chaos awaiting us in the lobby, I call Ellie, who is already here, and ask her to check me in and meet me at the pool bar with the key. Draping my arm around Amy, we head that way. I’ve been here a few times so I know my way around. Cutting through the grotto and over to the pool and cabanas, I steer Amy to the right and stop in my tracks as all the air rushes from my lungs.
My body floods with adrenaline and my gut twists. I don’t even have to do a double take because I’d know her anywhere. There’s no mistaking her. She’s just so beautiful— the elegant planes of her face, those high cheekbones, red lipstick, her platinum blonde hair shorter than it used to be tucked behind her ear, that face of an angel. She looks the same. No, she looks better. Her skin glistens in the sun and my gaze automatically follows the shape of her long legs. They look smooth and tan against her white bathing suit. An ache forms in my chest as I think about running my fingers up them. She’s still that eighteen-year-old girl I once knew but now she has the body of a woman—lean and toned and full of curves. When she moves it’s so familiar it doesn’t seem like a day has passed—and everything I ever felt for her, it’s all still inside me.
My pulse races at the mere sight of her. She’s lounging in the cushioned chair reading a magazine just outside a cabana. My heart slams harder in my chest when she sticks her earphones in her ears like she always used to do and it transports me back to the last time I saw her do the very same thing. We’d skipped school and were at my grandparents’ house—their pool. She was lying on the lounge chair listening to music and singing along—her voice so full of soul. I’d moved to sit with her under the guise of putting lotion of her back. She sat up and smiled that shy smile she didn’t need to have when she was with me. I squeezed the tube into my hand and after rubbing them together I slowly applied it to her back kneading my way up and down, touching every inch of her that I could.
It brings me back to the here and now when she suddenly sits up and looks over at me. Her eyes pin me in place. She looks at me as if she remembers me for who I was, what we were, not what I did to her. With my chest pounding, memories of us keep flashing through my mind. Fighting a smile, I wonder if she’s thinking the same thing— remembering what we were, what we shared, how we loved.
She quickly breaks our connection when she averts her eyes over to the man handing her a drink. I suck in a deep breath trying not to feel sick at the sight. He’s nearing fifty, wearing a terrycloth robe. He’s about my height, dark brown hair, meticulously groomed facial hair, and not exactly ripped but fit. He’s Damon Wolf, a man I’ve never actually met but hate all the same. I’ve seen their picture on TV and in magazines. He’s her agent, her fiancé, and I’m sure he’s the reason she’s not singing anymore.
She looks up at him with that same forced smile she used to give people she just wanted to appease and mouths “thank you.” I have a sudden urge to go over and deck him when her gaze shifts back to mine and he pulls her chin back to look at him. I can sense a discomfort between them. We could sense each other’s feelings even when we weren’t near each other.
Amy’s hand slides down my face and I have to blink a few times before I can hear what she’s saying. Glancing one last time at Ivy I see that she’s staring at me again. Then suddenly her mouth forms a scowl and she flicks her attention toward him. Hooking her arm around his neck, she pulls him down for a kiss and I think I might throw up.
“Are you okay?” I nod. Not able to say a word. “Isn’t that Ivy Taylor over there? The girl you used to date in high school?” Amy
asks. There’s an irritated tone to her voice I’m not used to hearing and it makes me agitated.
“Yeah, it is,” is all I say. She’s not just a girl I used to date…she’s the only girl I ever really loved. She’s also the girl whose heart I broke. Seeing her now brings back all those feelings I blocked, ignored, tucked aside. So many times over the years I wanted to go after her and tell her the truth—but I never did. Why I don’t know. Then one day it was too late—she had gotten engaged.
Amy chatters on. “I think that’s Damon Wolf with her. We should go say hi.”
My body goes cold and my face blank at the thought. I straighten and just as I’m about to say, “No fucking way,” my phone vibrates in my pocket. Squinting at the screen, I see that it’s my brother. I look over to Amy and motion toward the bar. “Hey, this is River. I need to take it. I’ll meet you over there in a minute.”
“That’s fine. We can catch up with them later. I’ll go order us a drink.” She smiles and starts toward the bar.
Turning around to avoid staring at Ivy, I answer the phone. “It took you long enough to call me back.”
“I was in a meeting and stepped out as soon as I could, so don’t start. What did the doctor say about Zane?”
“He’s out for the rest of the tour and we’re fucked.”
“You sure? You’re back in LA for almost two weeks after tomorrow night right? Isn’t that enough time for him to heal?”
“Technically yes. But his old man wants him out. The doctor said that he couldn’t be sure how long the blood that accumulated under his vocal cords had been there but obviously last night, the amount of ruptured vessels was enough to cause his voice to change. He advised at least two weeks of rest before another evaluation to see if surgery is necessary. Zeak wants his son to take a longer period of time off. He’s just afraid that if Zane keeps singing and it keeps happening, scar tissue will build up and cause his voice to change forever.”
“Do you blame him?”
“No I don’t,” I tell River and I feel like shit that I have to put him in a position to do what he didn’t want to do in the first place. But I also know that if I don’t, the band won’t survive. If I have to cancel this tour—the Wilde Ones are done. So I ask, “Did you talk to Dahlia?”
He sighs. “Yeah, I did. She’s cool with it, Xander. I’m just trying to figure it all out.” “You know I’ll do whatever you need me to do, right?” “Shit why can’t you just be an ass and make it easy for me to say no?” “Because you have no idea what this means to me.”
“Actually I do, and that’s why I’m going to make it happen. But Xander, remember I can’t play a twelve string.”
Laughter and relief take hold of me. I feel a huge weight lifted off my shoulders. “Right now I wouldn’t care if you only played the violin,” I joke.
He laughs and I add, “You’ll be here tonight?”
Now he sounds slightly annoyed. “I said I would. We might be a little late so don’t get your panties in a wad.”
“That’s cool. Thanks for everything. Hey, one more thing.’ “What?” “Ivy Taylor’s here.” “No way. Have you talked to her?”
“Fuck no. You know she won’t talk to me. And besides she’s with that asshole.” “You should talk to her. Tell her the truth.”
“What’s that going to do now? She’ll just think I’m lying.” “You want me to talk to her? I can explain everything.” “No. I don’t need my little brother to fight my battles. I’ll talk to her if I feel the time
is right. Do you hear me?” “Whatever you say. Look, I have to run but I want to discuss this later. And
Xander…you don’t know he’s an asshole. Just because Dad said his name once doesn’t mean shit.”
“Right. Okay, see you tonight,” I say and end the call. My head is spinning knowing that after all these years I’m actually in the same place she is. I want to talk to her, tell her everything but what would it matter now anyway. Glancing behind me, I catch another glimpse of her with him that turns my stomach. He’s such a slime ball. Since his father was hospitalized and he took over the business, he’s been scooping up labels, tearing them apart, and rebuilding them with bands he thinks are better fits. My guess is he picked up Jane’s label—that’s why he’s here. I heard they were having some financial difficulty and he’s just the kind of bottom feeder that would want to capitalize on not only being her agent but now also her producer. The sight of him touching Ivy makes my skin crawl.
Damon Wolf—two of the last words my father ever spoke to me before killing himself, and I never knew why. Of all the guys in the world Ivy had to end up with him— why him? I look up and they’re gone. But I’m anything but relieved. Rubb
ing my chin, I’m antsy, agitated, pissed as hell, but feel more alive than I have in years.


 

about the author

Kim Karr

I live in Florida with my husband and four kids. I’ve always had a love for reading books and writing. Being an English major in college, I wanted to teach at the college level but that was not to be. I went on to receive an MBA and became a project manager until quitting to raise my family. I currently work part-time with my husband and full-time embracing one of my biggest passions—writing.

I wear a lot of hats! Writer, book-lover, wife, soccer-mom, taxi driver, and the all around go-to person of the family. However, I always find time to read. One of my favorite family outings use to be taking my kids to the bookstore or the library. Today, my oldest child is in college and my twins are juniors so they no longer go with me on these outings. And although I don’t need to go to the actual store anymore because I have the greatest device ever invented—a Kindle, I still do. There’s nothing like a paperback. So now my four year old and I make dates out of going to the bookstore–it’s time I love and cherish.

I like to believe in soulmates, kindred spirits, true friends, and Happily-Ever-Afters. I love to drink champagne, listen to music, and hopes to always stay young at heart. 

Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Goodreads  |  Pinterest 

giveaway

Kim and her publisher Berkley/NAL are offering a paper copy of MENDED 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. 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. Giveaway is open to USA only.

6. Giveaway runs from May 27 to May 31, 2014

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Something Like Normal (Something Like Normal #1) by Monica James-Review,Interview & Giveaway

SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL (Something Like Normal #1) by Monica James-Review, Interview and Giveaway

Something Like Normal Banner

Something Like Normal
Something Like Normal #1
by Monica James
Genre: New Adult, contemporary
Release Date: May 13, 2014

Something LIke Normal

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 13, 2014

Mia Lee has a secret…

A secret she’s kept hidden since she was eight years old, however, Mia will no longer allow that secret to define her.

An irrevocable decision has left Mia Lee a fugitive and on the run—a circumstance that should leave her weak and scared, yet Mia has never felt so alive.

Under the pseudonym of Paige Cassidy, Mia is ready to live the life she’s never had, and she’s determined not to allow her tainted past dictate her promising future.

Paige is on a Greyhound bus heading from L.A. to South Boston, Virginia, to start a new life. A life that includes finding her mother, who abandoned her at age three. But what she finds, is four people, who will change her life forever.

Yet no one can outrun their past…

Especially one filled with bitter memories, which refuse to remain hidden

••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL is the first instalment in Monica James’s contemporary, new adult series of the same name. The focus of the series is on nineteen year old Mia Lee (aka Paige Cassidy) and the horror that has been her life.

Told from first person (Mia/Paige) POV, the storyline premise follows Paige as she runs from her past. Landing in South Boston, Virginia with only a few dollars and a backpack with little more, Paige will discover that sometimes family has nothing to do with the blood in your veins but the people you meet along the way.Much of the back story is told through flashbacks and nightmares.

Monica James pulls the reader into an emotional storyline where a young woman had to make a choice –a choice that haunts her sleep but a choice that had to be made. Meeting Quinn and Tristan Berkeley, Hank the motel operator and Tabitha (her new BFF), Paige learns what it means to be family-a family of misfits who are there when the world begins to spiral out of control.

There is a slight love triangle formula developing between Paige and the Berkeley brothers which amped up my anxiety with an already emotional and heartbreaking storyline. Tristan and Quinn’s family history is just a step up from Mia’s horrific past and Paige (Mia) will find a kindred soul mate in Quinn.

The secondary characters (Tabitha, Quinn, Tristan, Hank) play a major role throughout the story and become one another’s sole source of comfort and support. The world building brings the abhorrent face of abuse, betrayal, neglect and addiction –front and center-in a storyline that will tug at your heart and your soul.

Monica James writes a seductive story about one woman finding solace and support from the unlikeliest of people and places. SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL is a provocative, emotional, intense and passionate storyline; the back story is gritty, abrasive and startling; and the present is traumatic and profound. You will not walk away untouched.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

Interview beige

TRC: Hi Monica and welcome to The Reading Cafe. Congratulations on the release of SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL and the success of your I, Surrender series.

We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Follow Monica James: Goodreads Twitter / Facebook

Monica JamesMonica: Well, I am a humbled girl from Australia, who is incredibly grateful to be doing an interview with someone halfway across the world. I studied Philosophy and Literature at University and I loved it. I loved reading the philosophies of Aristotle, Plato and Nietzsche because their writings are simply beautiful. So I guess in a way, these philosophers inspired me to follow my dream, and take a chance to start writing seriously.

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing?

Monica: Life inspired, and still inspires me to write. I never really had a moment where I was like, ‘Yes, I want to be a writer.’ I just loved being able to express myself onto paper, as writing came so naturally to me. It started out jotting down simple phrases, quotes, thoughts, and then it extended into poems and short stories. Then it just exploded and went from there. I love being able to tell a story, and share my vision with everyone who reads my work.

TRC: When not writing, what do you do to relax?

Monica: I love hanging out with my pets. And of course, reading.

Something LIke NormalTRC: SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL is the first release in your latest contemporary, new adult series. Would you please tell us something about the premise?

Monica: Something like Normal is a manuscript I hold very close to my heart. This book was a very challenging, taxing project to write, but I loved every minute of it. I wanted to write a different story, and challenge myself as a writer, and also, challenge my readers. Some readers may find the context a little dark, but that’s what I love about this series. Every chapter challenges me, and also pushes me to write outside my comfort zone, which I love. The premise is simple: my characters just want to find their piece of normalcy in a not so normal world.

TRC: Are any of the characters or the premise based in reality or a combination of reality and fiction?

Monica: Honestly, I had to do a lot of research for this book. I wanted it to be as accurate as possible, and also, I wanted it to be confronting. It is mainly fiction; however, the characters are loosely based on people I know.

TRC: How many books do you have planned for the series?

Monica: There are 4 books in this series, and they all follow the same characters throughout each book. These characters have a lot of secrets, and I really wanted to ensure I didn’t rush anyone’s past, especially Mia’s and Quinn’s.

TRC: What challenges or difficulties (research, logistics, background) did you encounter writing this particular story and series?

Monica: Heaps. This story involves certain situations and topics which I have never personally encountered before. I wanted to make the story as real, and as raw as possible. Everything that you read was researched, and double checked, to ensure that what you are reading is factual.

TRC: SURRENDERED-the final book in your I Surrender trilogy will be released in July 2014. Will you give us any hints or clues about the premise?

Monica: It was actually very sad writing, Surrendered. I have become very attached to these characters, and wrapping up their stories was hard. I did cry a few times LOL Hints- hmm, let’s just say Jasper White is gonna make you swoon!

TRC: Have you considered a spinoff or novella series when the trilogy is complete?

Monica: Yes, I have. If the fans want it, then I’ll see what I can do 😉

I Surrender seriesTRC: We have read where you have re-written the first two books –I Surrender and Surrender to Me-in your I Surrender series. Has the premise changed from the original storylines such that reading the new release will be confusing to previous readers?

 

Click HERE for our reviews of I, Surrender and Surrender to Me.

Monica: Not at all. When I say they are rewritten, this means the flow of the storyline has been rewritten. The actual plot itself has remained the same. A few scenes have been added, so think of these as bonus scenes.

TRC: What are your thoughts on writing a series and ending an instalment with a major cliff hanger?

Monica: LOL I know many readers hate them, but I feel they are needed to keep the readers coming back for more. Personally, as a reader, the more powerful and devastating an ending, the more chance I have at remembering the story. I love eagerly awaiting the next book in a series I love, because it’s like Christmas morning when I get my hands on it!

TRC: When writing a storyline, do the characters direct the writing or do you direct the characters?

Monica: If only I had a say! It’s 100% the characters. I cannot tell you how many times I have sat down in front of my laptop with a clear vision in my head, and then by the end of it, it reads like a totally different story. Some characters are louder and more obnoxious than others LOL, but I do try and stay true to them, and even though their decisions are sometimes questioned by readers, there is a reason why they are doing it.

TRC: The mark of a good writer is to pull the reader into the storyline so that they experience the emotions along with the characters. What do you believe a writer must do to make this happen? Where do you believe writer’s fail in this endeavor?

Monica: This is a really good question. There is only one rule I religiously follow when writing, and that is, write what you know. Your readers are intelligent, and they will know if you’re trying to write about something you’re not comfortable with. I am not talking about subject matter, because like I mentioned, Something like Normal was a project out of my comfort zone. I’m referring to writing style, words, flow etc…

An honest, raw piece of literature which showcases your talent, I believe, is what makes a successful story. If you want to write about something totally foreign to you, just make sure you have done your homework.

TRC: Writer’s Block is a very real phenomenon. How do you handle the pressures and anxiety of writer’s block?

Monica: I usually take a breather for a few days. I watch movies, read, and listen to music, that kind of thing. The more pressure put on oneself, I believe, the worse it gets. Writing should be expressive, not structured and controlled.

TRC: Many authors bounce ideas and information with other authors or friends and family. With whom do you bounce ideas?

Monica: I am a very private writer, and I actually only use one other person to bounce my ideas off, and that is my friend, and fellow author, Lisa Edward.

TRC: What three things would you like to accomplish in the next five years?

Monica: Well, I am honoured to be an Amazon bestselling author, so I guess the next step would be reaching for the stars.

TRC: What is something that few, if any people, know about you?

Monica: I am terrified of Air Blown Inflatable Characters

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Monica: Book 2 of the Something like Normal series, and a standalone.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Monica: I wanted to give a shout out to my ever supportive, forever loyal readers- You guys mean everything to me. Without you, I wouldn’t be where I am now. It’s because of your enthusiasm and loyalty that I am able to do what I love, and for that, I will forever be grateful to each and every one of you. And the only way I can repay you, is to continue writing stories I hope you will love.

Thanks for this. It was fun x

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food Pizza

Favorite Dessert Pancakes

Favorite TV Show Dexter and Supernatural

Last Movie You Saw The Lego Movie

Favorite Musical Group 30 Seconds to Mars

Dark or Milk Chocolate Dark

Secret Celebrity Crush Animal (yes, the character from The Muppets)

Last Vacation Destination USA (I miss you guys ☹)

Pet Peeve Dog ears in books!

TRC: Thank you Monica for taking the time to answer our questions. It is always fun to meet the author. Congratulations on the release of SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL and the upcoming release of SURRENDERED.

Giveaway beige

Monica James is offering an ecopy of SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL 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. Giveaway is open to INTERNATIONAL.

6. Giveaway runs from May 19 to May 23, 2014, 2014

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Snowed Under by Jen Greyson-a review

SNOWED UNDER (Wunderland Series) by Jen Greyson-a review

Snowed Under

$1.99 ebook: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date april 25, 2014

Hippie + Logger = Enough heat to melt the fiercest Alaskan snow storm.

Cassidy has life all figured out. She’s one semester away from finishing her degree and then she’s off to save Mother Earth. But first, she has to stop the planet-murdering Whetman Logging.

Teague Whetman brought MIT home to the family logging business in Alaska. They’re high-tech artesian. But even his advanced technology can’t handle Cassidy’s handcuffs when she chains herself to the main saw.

When a late-Spring storm hammers the little town of Bear Ridge with eighty inches of snow, Teague and Cassidy must put aside their animosity to battle a power outage, an angry moose, and their own attraction.

•••••••••••••••

REVIEW: SNOWED UNDER is the contemporary, new adult, erotic romance storyline (novella) from author Jen Greyson. The focus of the story is on environmental activist Cassidy and Alaskan logger Teague Whetman. Cassidy is determined to shut down Whetman operations in Alaska but is unprepared for the storm that rages outside and inside of her heart.

Written from alternating first person POVs (Cassidy and Teague) the premise follows Cassidy as she leaves the warmth of hometown San Diego behind landing in the wilds of Alaska preparing to protest against Whetman Logging. When a fierce winter storm shuts down everyone and everything Cassidy finds herself a reluctant houseguest of the man whose business she was targeting. Enter one angry moose, an avalanche, eight feet of snow, power outages and a shortage of food Cassidy is definitely out of her element.

The attraction between Cassidy and Teague is immediate. Near frostbite, a concussion and a raging moose push Cassidy and Teague closer together but Cassidy is left struggling between her beliefs and her attraction to Teague Whetman. Cassidy’s eyes and her mind will be open to the possibilities that not all logging is an environmental catastrophe waiting to happen. Without controlled logging, many people (and animals) would never survive.

Jen Greyson pulls the reader into a winter wonderland of ice and snow. From the darkened forests of Alaska and the men who work and live the terrain, SNOWED UNDER is a romantic storyline about two people who would never have met under any other circumstances until a feisty young woman protester tugs at the heart of a man who has been without a woman for a very long time.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Phenomenal X (Hard Knocks #1) by Michelle A.Valentine-a review

PHENOMENAL X (Hard Knocks #1) by Michelle A Valentine-a review

Phenomenal X

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

About the book: April 22, 2014

Good Girl. Notorious Bad-Boy. One Phenomenal Love.

From the mean streets of Detroit rises the newest superstar of professional wrestling, Xavier Cold, better known as Phenomenal X. His muscular physique makes men cower before him and women lose their minds with desire.

Anna Cortez is fresh out of college and naive to the harsh realities of the real world. Tired of living under the thumb of her conservative family, she defies them when she accepts a job as the assistant to wrestling’s most notorious bad-boy. Phenomenal X has an animalistic nature that even good girl Anna finds hard to resist.

One night forced to share a bed in a sold-out hotel, lines blur between them and they quickly learn that one lustful night changes everything and neither one of them will ever be the same.

••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: PHENOMENAL X is the first instalment in Michelle A Valentine’s contemporary, new adult, erotic romance HARD KNOCKS series focusing on professional wrestler Xavier ‘Phenomenal X’ Cold and the woman that he loves-Anna Cortez. This is a good girl/bad boy storyline where our hero believes he is not worthy of happiness or love. The story begins when Xavier meets Anna on a plane heading to Detroit. What neither one realizes is that they are both running-Anna from her controlling father and Xavier from his life.

Told from alternating first person POV (Xavier and Anna) the focus of the storyline is the building relationship between Anna and X but also on Xavier’s past-a past that is mired in drugs, alcohol, neglect and abuse. Xavier’s past is what drives him forward in the wrestling ring and in the bedroom. Meeting Anna will begin to put everything into perspective when he is unable to let go of the only good thing in his life.

Xavier (X) is a serial womanizer but his attraction to Anna finds him wrestling with his conscience although his need for sex wins out every time. Xavier is not a one woman man and in this he make a grievous error in judgment knowing that Anna will not accept the lifestyle in which he has grown accustomed. As Anna and Xavier’s relationship turns from friendship to love, there will be people in the wings waiting to tear them apart.

Michelle A Valentine has written a gritty, in your face storyline where one man’s past controls his days; where nightmares control his sleep; and where the competition could very well destroy any chance at happiness for Xavier and Anna.

The reader is pulled into a storyline that flashes from the past using dream sequences to the present. We begin to understand the dark and dangerous aura that haunts Xavier’s every thought and why he is reluctant to allow anyone into his heart. The world building continues to focus on the professional wrestling circuit-both in front and behind the scenes-as well as the people who ‘manage’ the athletes and the control the script.

PHENOMENAL X is a seductive storyline where two people from different backgrounds will find one another in a storm of controversy and heartbreaking circumstances. The traumatic events of the past control so much of the present that Xavier’s future prospects are appearing less than phenomenal at the end of book one. There is a dramatic cliffhanger that will leave the reader wondering how Anna and Xavier will ever survive the fallout and aftermath of a wrestling match that has all gone terribly wrong.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Kiss The Sky / Hothouse Flower (Calloway Sisters 1 & 2) by Krista and Becca Ritchie-reviews

Kiss the Sky / Hothouse Flower (Calloway Sisters 1 & 2) by Krista & Becca Ritchie-reviews

Calloway Sisters

KISS THE SKY
(Calloway Sisters #1)
by Krista & Becca Ritchie
Release Date January 24, 2014
Genre: New Adult, contemporary, romance, erotica
Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO

Kiss The SkyVirgin. Sex addict. Daredevil. Alcoholic. Smartass … Jackass. Her five friends are about to be filmed. Reality TV, be prepared.

Rose Calloway thought she had everything under control. At twenty-three, she’s a Princeton graduate, an Academic Bowl champion, a fashion designer and the daughter of a Fortune 500 mogul. But with a sex addict as a sister and roommate, nothing comes easy.

After accepting help from a producer, Rose agrees to have her life filmed for a reality television show. The Hollywood exec is her last chance to revive her struggling fashion line, and boundaries begin to blur as she’s forced to make nice with a man who always has his way.

Twenty-four-year-old Connor Cobalt is a guy who bulldozes weak men. He’s confident, smart-as-hell and lives with his equally ambitious girlfriend, Rose Calloway. Connor has to find a way to protect Rose without ruining the show. Or else the producer will get what Connor has always wanted—Rose’s virginity.

This New Adult Romance can be described as Friends meets The Real World. Expect fist fights, drugs, sex of varying degrees, crude humor and competitive alpha males. Definitely for mature readers audiences only.

***Authors’ Note***
Kiss the Sky is a spin-off of the Addicted series. If you’d like to read the Addicted series beforehand, you should read them in order (see below) before starting Kiss the Sky or else the time jumps will be jarring.

Addicted Series Recommended Reading Order
Addicted to You (Addicted #1)
Ricochet (Addicted #1.5)
Addicted for Now (Addicted #2)
Kiss the Sky (Spin-Off)
Hothouse Flower (Spin-Off)
Thrive (Addicted #2.5)
Addicted After All (Addicted #3)

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REVIEW: KISS THE SKY is the first instalment in Krista and Becca Ritchie’s contemporary, new adult, erotic Calloway Sisters series-a spin off from their successful Addicted Series. This is Rose Calloway and Connor Cobalt’s storyline – all the previous series characters play a major role. If you have not read the original series much of this particular story will be lost to a new reader. It is highly recommended that you read the Addicted series prior to reading the spin off.

Told from two distinct first person POV (Connor and Rose) the focus of the storyline is Rose and Connor’s building relationship -one that started as teens and is put to the test when the Calloway sisters agree to participate in a six month reality show that will feature the sisters and their boyfriends-in all of their glory. If you are familiar with ‘The Jersey Shore’ or ‘Keeping Up with the Kardashians’ then the premise will not be lost on the reader. KISS THE SKY is an adulterated, exaggerated and off the wall version of reality tv.

I will say, before I go any further, that I am not a fan of the unreality of the ‘reality’ TV show. Nothing can be gained from the humiliation and degradation of airing one’s dirty laundry in public and in this, much of the storyline content follows a similar pattern. Rose and Connor are intellectually gifted, up and coming entrepreneurs and successful in their own rights but what ever possessed these children of the uber rich to star in their own reality television show leaves questions of sanity and stupidity. Everything that could go wrong, does go wrong and grows exponentially worse with each day.

We are reintroduced to Rose’s troubled sister Lily and her boyfriend Lo-both recovering addicts; seventeen year old and youngest sister Daisy-a successful model and minor in the eyes of the law; and Ryke-Loren’s half brother and the man who will be featured in the next instalment HOTHOUSE FLOWER as Daisy’s love interest. Each character will suffer during the six months of shooting but none more so than Connor and Rose-all of their lives will become fodder for the tabloids but our leading couple will suffer the most. And, in the end, when someone hands you lemons, why not make lemonade and sell it back to the public.

Kristi and Becca Ritchie have proven they are a masterful team when it comes to writing an angst driven and heartbreaking storyline that focuses on some ethically and morally questionable situations and, KISS THE SKY is no exception.

The characters are raw and unencumbered-they say and do what they want without forethought of the consequences-and consequences-they will suffer. The storyline is fast paced, in your face-dark and gritty. You can’t not be affected by the actions of these six young adults and you know that everything they do and say will be captured on tape for the world to see. The reader is pulled into the multi layered relationships between family and friends-no one is unaffected by the lies, love and protective nature of six friends who are willing to risk everything for one another.

KISS THE SKY reveals the inner thoughts and emotions of two people who were previously presented as cold and uncaring but again, in this, we were completely wrong. Connor is the master of his own destination, both inside and outside of the bedroom; and Rose needs someone like Connor to master her needs and wants. KISS THE SKY is an erotic, compelling, dramatic and intense storyline that reveals the probability in an improbable situation.

Reviewed by Sandy

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HOTHOUSE FLOWER
(Calloway Sisters #2)
by Krista & Becca Ritchie
Release Date March 27, 2014

Genre: New Adult, contemporary, romance, erotica
Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO

Hothouse FlowerRyke Meadows, meet Daisy Calloway … she’s all grown up.

Twenty-five-year-old Ryke Meadows knows he’s hard to love. With a billion-dollar inheritance, a track-star resume, and an alpha-male personality—he redefines the term likable asshole. But he’s not living to make friends. Or enemies. He just wants to free climb three of the toughest mountains in Yosemite without drama or interruption.

And then he receives a distressed call from a girl in Paris—a girl that he has never been allowed to have.

Daisy Calloway is eighteen. Finally. With her newfound independence, she can say goodbye to her overbearing mother and continue her modeling career. Next stop, Paris. Fashion Week begins with a bang, and Daisy uncovers the ugly reality of the industry. She wants to prove to her family that she can live on her own, but when everything spirals out of control, she turns to Ryke to keep her secrets.

As Daisy struggles to make sense of this new world and her freedom, she pushes the limits and fearlessly rides the edge. Ryke knows there’s deep hurt beneath every impulsive action. He must keep up with Daisy, and if he lets her go, her favorite motto—“live as if you’ll die today”—may just come true.

New Adult Romance: recommended for readers 18+ for mature content

***Authors’ Note***
Hothouse Flower is a spin-off of the Addicted series. Kiss the Sky is required before reading, and we strongly recommend reading the Addicted series before this spin-off.

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REVIEW: HOTHOUSE FLOWER is the second instalment in Krista and Becca Ritchie’s contemporary, erotic, new adult Calloway Sisters series-a spin off from their popular Addicted series. This is Daisy Calloway and Ryke Meadows’s storyline. Daisy is the youngest sister of Rose and Lily Calloway; Ryke is Loren Hale’s half brother. This is a friends to lovers storyline -one that started years before with a simple introduction between family and friends. Because the series and storylines are interconnected you must read the previous instalments in order for this particular story to make any sense.

Told from two distinct first person POV (Daisy and Ryke) the storyline follows Daisy and Ryke’s forbidden love. Daisy has just turned eighteen years old and twenty six year old Ryke has always had a hands off policy where it concerned Daisy due to their age difference, her minor status  but also out of respect for his brother Lo. Ryke has been in love with Daisy since their first introduction but their age difference meant that he could only watch as Daisy’s world begins to fall apart around her. But Ryke knows more about the emotional and physical suffering that Daisy has had to endure and he is the only one who is there when her life takes a dangerous turn.

Lo has always been protective of Lily and Daisy but when Lily and Lo’s personal life spiraled out of control, Daisy had been pulled into a media frenzy when her sister’s sexual addiction became the stuff of her own nightmare’s. When everything goes wrong on a trip to Paris, Daisy and Ryke will take their friendship to the next level but in doing so raise questionable doubts about Ryke’s true intentions and a timeline that also questions the length of their relationship.

Krista and Becca pull the reader into a storyline that takes the definition of dysfunctional family to another level. No one is left unaffected by the sins of the parents and of the past. When addiction, humiliation, degradation and infidelity become the storylines of two families connected through three sisters, heartbreak and sorrow are only the tip of the proverbial iceberg when revenge, betrayal and scheming exes want to push in the knife and twist.

The ensemble cast includes all of the previous storyline characters and is the key to Krista and Becca’s successful series. Their lives, their loves, their heartache and their pain are intertwined and amplified when six friends must endure the media scrutiny that has splashed their lives on the front pages of every tabloid around the world. No place is safe. And it is with staggering realization that the next generation of the uber rich must pay for the sins of the fathers.

HOTHOUSE FLOWER is a fast paced, profound and controversial storyline that looks closely at two dysfunctional families and the devastation that has become their lives. The novel will captivate the reader and pull you into a story that is heartbreaking, dramatic, abrasive and intense.

Reading Order
Addicted To You
Ricochet
Addicted for Now
Kiss The Sky
Hothouse Flower

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