Kept (The Enforcers #3) by Maya Banks-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

Kept (The Enforcers #3) by Maya Banks-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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KEPT
The Enforcers #3
by Maya Banks
Release Date: October 25, 2016
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romantic suspense

Kept

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About the book: Release Date October 25, 2016

He can’t change who he is…

A horrific childhood has made Silas the man he is today: dangerous, distrustful, and demanding. He’s lived in self-imposed solitude, convinced that no woman could ever accept his need for absolute control—in business and pleasure. That is, until a young violinist walks into one of his buildings and into his life.

She can’t change what she wants…

Haley has been struggling to fulfill her father’s dying wish: to attend a prestigious music school in New York City. But even working two jobs, she can’t afford the tiniest of apartments. Seeing her hopeless and near tears, Silas vows to help and protect her, no matter the cost to himself. But when Haley meets his every demand with unwavering acceptance and love, he is overwhelmed by her goodness and gentle spirit. He knows that the dark stain on his soul can never be erased—and rather than risk destroying the most beautiful thing he’s ever experienced, he knows he’ll have to do the hardest thing he’s ever had to face. Let her go. But he’s totally unprepared for the lengths Haley will go to fight for his love and a future brighter than the sun…

••••••••••

Kept begins with Haley down on her luck and needing to find a new place to live. She happens into a building that had a vacancy, but it was too expensive. To her complete and utter shock, the manager contacts her to let her know they had a vacancy open up in her price range. Haley moves in almost immediately and continues working all hours and practicing the other hours. She squeezes in some sleep when she can but has vowed to make it, not only for herself, but to make her dad proud and fulfill his dream for her.

Silas knows the moment he sees Haley that things are about to change. Once he hears the soothing sounds of her violin in the wee hours of the morning, he quickly starts to look forward to it…night after night. However, when Haley decides to bake some goodies as a thank you for her elusive neighbor, who just happens to own the building, neither are prepared for the life changing series of events that follows.

Kept is a nice addition to the Enforcer series, but I was a little disappointed. Haley’s character was well written. I loved that she was in the city attending school, working and owning her life. Yes, she was a little naïve about some things, but she was on her own and making it work. I’ve loved Silas since book one of this series. Even though he technically works for Drake, he really answers to no one. He was an enigma and chose to throw in with Drake and his team, all of whom are his chosen family. He had a horrible childhood with horrible parents, but somehow survived to become a force to be reckoned with. His relationship with Haley was “instant” attraction, but it wasn’t “instant” sex, thank God! They really did navigate their relationship in an almost normal fashion….almost. This is a Banks romance novel, by the way. Where it fell a little short for me was, believe it or not, was the way he treated Haley. Yes, he was accommodating, protective and loving, but the fact that he called her princess really grated on my nerves. It was like he was talking to a three year old. Of course, this is just my opinion, but I love Maya Banks, and just expected a bit more from him and his story. He also made some of the same mistakes that Drake had made, which grated a little more. I was expecting, and wanting, more from him. With all of that said, I really did like the book. The problem for me was that I didn’t love it. If you’re a Maya Banks fan, you’ll like it as well. I do look forward to the next in the series. The secondary characters were well written and I think they’ll have a lot to say. Well done, Maya Banks!

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Mastered
Dominated
Kept

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Vickie M

excerpt

Hayley sank further into the heated seat of the luxurious car as they sailed through traffic, and she smiled, unable to believe her good fortune. How fast things changed and how quickly she’d gone from desperation and resignation to excitement and optimism about her future.
Tears glittered and clung to her eyelashes.
I’m going to make it, Dad. Just like I promised. I’ve found a place I can afford to rent. I can continue school like you and Mom wanted. One day you’ll see me playing with a prestigious symphony. This is all for you, Dad. For all you sacrificed for me. I only wish you were here to see me the first time I play with a symphony.
A fierce ache besieged her chest and she rubbed, blinking furiously to rid herself of the tears that burned her eyes. It was hard to accept that her biggest—only—supporter was gone. First her mom, whom she’d lost when she was but a child, but Hayley still clung to the fleeting memories she had of her mother. Every time she looked in the mirror she saw her mother’s face. As her father often fondly remarked, she was the picture of her mother.
It was bad enough to lose one parent. Why did she have to lose both? The only two people she had in the world?
She leaned forward in the seat when she saw that they were approaching the street where her current residence was located.
“You can let me off at the corner,” she said to the driver, who hadn’t uttered a single word during the ride. “I’ll walk from there. It’s not far and the rain has stopped.”
The man glanced in the rearview mirror, obviously staring intently at her, though she couldn’t see his eyes behind the shades he wore despite the overcast day.
“I would feel better if I dropped you in front of your building,” the man said, surprising her with the firmness of his statement.
Hayley smiled. “No, it’s okay, truly. I’d like to walk so I can clear my head. It’s been an eventful morning.”
His lips tightened but he didn’t argue further as he pulled to the corner and glided to a halt. When she would have opened her door to duck out, he sent her a look of reprimand that froze her in her tracks. He got out and unhurriedly stepped around the car to open the passenger door not facing the street.
She smiled at him again, ruefully this time, and offered her thanks, squeezing the hand he’d offered to help her out. To her shock, the staid, somber man’s lips turned into a semblance of a smile, only the corners slightly tipping up.
“It was my pleasure,” he offered formally before once more returning to the driver’s seat.
Seconds later the car melted away into traffic and Hayley turned to walk the half block to her apartment, shaking her head at the most unexpected turn of events the day had offered.

Posted by arrangement with Berkley, a member of Penguin Group (USA) LLC, A Penguin
Random House Company. Copyright © Maya Banks, 2016.

About The Author Black and Blue

Follow Maya: Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads

Maya BanksMy name is Maya Banks and I live in Texas with my husband and three children and our assortment of pets.

When I’m not writing, I love to hunt and fish with my family. We all love the outdoors and go on family hunting trips every year. We also love to travel. One of our more recent trips was to Scotland, which was every bit as comical as National Lampoon’s European Vacation. You know the part about “Look kids, Big Ben, Parliament” as they went round and round the roundabouts? Yeah, that was us, only we couldn’t even get out of the airport in Glasgow without hitting three of those suckers.

Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of a writing career is getting to meet so many wonderful readers. There’s nothing better than dishing books with someone who loves the romance genre as much as I do. Romance readers are passionate and vocal. We love our books, love our happily ever afters, and we love to spend time talking to others about our favorites. THIS is why I love my job so much, and I’m so grateful to readers who gave ME a chance when I began my career. So thank you.

Giveaway-Black and Deep Blue

Maya’s publisher is graciously offering a paper copy of  KEPT 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.

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8. Giveaway runs from November 3-7, 2016

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Looking Inside by Beth Kery-Review and Giveaway

LOOKING INSIDE by Beth Kery-Review and Giveaway

Looking Inside Banner

LOOKING INSIDE
by Beth Kery
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance
Release Date: November 1, 2016

Looking Inside

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 1, 2016

Are you just going to stand there and watch?

Eleanor Briggs just can’t help herself. Every night, the sight of the man in the high-rise across the street is driving her wild. She longs to feel his touch up close and personal. To win him over, she’ll need to shake off her wallflower sensibilities and become the seductress she never imagined she could be. The only trouble will be finding the perfect way to meet him…

Or are you going to join in?

Sex is easy for millionaire entrepreneur Trey Riordan. Finding something of substance, however, seems impossible. That is until a simple night of reading at a local coffee shop becomes something far steamier when a beautiful brunette comes by and leaves a note telling him to look out his bedroom window at midnight. But when the time comes, neither of them will be truly ready for what follows…

•••••••••••

REVIEW:  LOOKING INSIDE by Beth Kery is a stand alone erotic, romance storyline focusing on library historian Eleanor Briggs, and millionaire entrepreneur Trey Riordan.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Eleanor and Trey) LOOKING INSIDE follows Eleanor Briggs in the first few months following the death of her older sister Caddy. For close to one year, Eleanor has watched Trey Riordan from her sister’s guest room window, and has put a plan into motion to meet the man who has been the focus of our heroine’s fantasies and late night voyeuristic tendencies. When Eleanor discovers that Trey is one of the guest speakers at the local coffee shop reading night, Eleanor steps out of her comfort zone and sets out to seduce the man in question. What ensues is the highly sexualized relationship between a man who is unwilling to commit to the future, and a woman who fears she is losing her identity to that of the sister who has died. Eleanor took to heart her sister’s final words, and the seduction of Trey Riordan pushes all of our heroine’s boundaries and comfort levels.

LOOKING INSIDE focuses on the acts of voyeurism and exhibitionism. Eleanor Briggs is both a voyeur and exhibitionist, as well as a natural submissive, and Trey Riordan plays the leading role as the target of being watched, and a receptive audience to Eleanor’s acts of late night seduction. There are a few vanilla acts of bondage and light discipline; the $ex scenes are erotic, intimate, seductive and intense. The chemistry is hot and palpable.

The story line conflict comes from within-our heroine is evolving as both a person and a sexual woman, and with it comes a lack of self-assuredness that is hindered when Trey reveals a connection to her past. Eleanor’s over the top reaction was a bit melodramatic and immature, and made for some questionable actions on behalf of the story line heroine.

LOOKING INSIDE is a slow building story line of fetish-voyeurism and exhibitionism-wherein Eleanor seductively dances her way into Trey Riordan’s heart. The premise is energetic and encouraging; the characters are colorful and passionate; the romance is provocative and alive.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

About The Author beige

Follow: Goodreads/Website/Facebook/Twitter/

Beth Kery (Bethany Kane) is the New York Times and USA Today best selling author of over thirty novels, novellas and serials. She writes contemporary romances as well as erotic contemporary romances, her hallmarks being emotional intensity, leap-off-the-page realistic characters and steamy sexual tension.

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The Reading Cafe and Beth Kery’s publisher are offering a paper copy of LOOKING INSIDE to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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

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

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7. Giveaway is open to USA only

8. Giveaway runs from November 3-7, 2016

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A Sure Thing (The Donnigans #1) by Marie Harte-Review, Excerpt and Giveaway

A Sure Thing (The Donnigans #1) by Marie Harte-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

A Sure Thing

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ABOUT THE BOOK: RELEASE DATE November 1, 2016

Meet the Donnigans
With the eldest Donnigan brothers adjusting to civilian life, their younger sister constantly in trouble, and their little brother clueless about life in general, falling in love is the last thing on anyone’s mind…

Can this Bossy Badass Marine…
The Marine Corps was everything Landon Donnigan ever wanted in life…until a bullet sent him home with a medical discharge. Teaching a self-defense class at the gym is old-hat for a marine, but when he meets sexy Ava Rosenthal, his combat skills are useless for protecting his heart.

Be her Mr. Right?
Ava can take care of herself and likes quiet, bookish men-not muscular warriors who think women need to be coddled. But Landon is more than he seems, and when they come together, the results are explosive.

••••••••••••••

REVIEW: A SURE THING is the first installment in Marie Harte’s contemporary, adult THE DONNIGANS erotic, romance series focusing the Donnigan family of Seattle. This is former Marine, and business manager Landon Donnigan, and psychologist Ava Rosenthal’s story line. THE DONNIGANS is a spin off from Marie Harte’s THE MCCAULEY BROTHERS and BODY SHOP BAD BOYS series. You do not have to have read the previous series to follow the spin off-The Donnigan and The McCauley siblings are cousins. There is a slight cross over with some of the characters.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Landon and Ava) A SURE THING follows the building relationship between businessman Landon Donnigan, and clincal psychologist Ava Rosenthal. Ava and Landon both like to work out, and first meet at a local gym where they are both members but the meeting is anything but positive as Landon tries to give, a less than receptive but independent Ava, some pointers. What ensues is Landon’s pursuit of the feisty and somewhat uptight Ava-a woman who has a five year plan and a check list of requirements about men that she dates-a list where Landon doesn’t check any of our heroine’s boxes.

Landon is a reluctant civilian-a gunshot wound ended his career in the Marines, and he is struggling to get his life on track. Our hero has a take-charge attitude, and he is trying to take charge of a woman who refuses to lose her independence. Ava is a psychologist who tends to ‘analyze’ things and the people around her, and Landon is a man who refuses to be analyzed. Ava likes order in her life, has had a number of failed online dating fiascos, and Landon pushes our heroine out of her comfort zone to try something new. The $ex scenes are erotic and provocative. Landon likes to talk dirty in the bedroom.

We are introduced to Landon’s siblings: Gavin Donnigan-a fellow, former US Marine who suffers with some PTSD; youngest brother, twenty year old Theo who has yet to find his path in life; and sister Hope whose dating history is tempestuous at best. The Donnigan siblings like to prank one another, and the results are giggle worthy throughout. The Donnigan parental units Van and Linda butt proverbial heads with Theo and Hope as the younger siblings struggle with their current paths in life. Ava’s over the top cousins Elliott, and Sadie add some comic relief and insight into Ava’s background and history. There is plenty of back and forth banter between all of the story line characters. Some of the McCauley siblings have cameo roles throughout the story.

A SURE THING is a sweet story line; a sexy but predictable romance with moments of humor and fun. The premise is engaging; the characters are dynamic and spirited; the romance is a slow build to a happily ever after.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Excerpt Black and Hot Pink

 

All in all, a perfect late evening companion. Or he would have been, if the blond giant hadn’t been making odd gestures behind Charles’s back, causing her to wonder if she should look deeper into her date than the surface perfection he’d presented.
“I hate to leave, but work tomorrow, you know.” Charles shrugged.
“I know what you mean.” She smiled. “I had a wonderful time, Charles.”
He brightened. “Me too. Would you consider dinner some evening when you’re free?” He handed her a business card. “You have my email, but here’s my number.” He gave a sheepish grin. “I confess I wrote my cell on the back earlier, hoping you’d be as lovely in person as you are online. You totally are.”
“How sweet.” She was touched.
Blond guy sounded like he was choking on something. If only.
“Dinner sounds great.” She pumped enthusiasm into her tone, because she meant it. Charles had fit all her criteria. No reason for her to feel let down by her night with him. She inwardly gave blond giant a scowl while still smiling at Charles. No, no reason at all.
“Can I kiss you good night?” Charles asked. A gentleman to his bones.
“Please.” She met his kiss on her cheek and blushed. “I look forward to our dinner.”
“Me too.” He looked flushed and brushed back a strand of hair that slipped over his forehead. “Can I walk you to your car?”
“I’m parked right next to yours.” Which sat directly out front thanks to the timely departure of two couples earlier. “But I need to use the facilities before I leave. Go on without me. I’ll call you later in the week.”
He nodded. “Sounds great. Have a good day tomorrow, Ava.”
“You too.” She watched him leave, ignored blond guy staring at her with what seemed to be a smirk, then searched for the ladies’ room. Once finished, she had every intention of leaving and not looking back.
But she paused next to blond guy and, noting the still-open seat, she sat.
“You.” She glared at him.
“Ava, huh? Pretty name.” He turned in his seat and grinned down at her while guzzling a beer.
“And you are?”
“Landon.” His grin nearly did her in, because his whole face lit up with joy, making it seem as if he’d brought the sun into the darkened restaurant. “But I’m sure there are a few other names you’d like to call me.”
“What is your problem?”
“Me? I’m good.” Before she could lay into him, he added, “But you’re not.”
She blinked. “What’s my problem, besides you?”
“You and boring guy.”
She frowned. “That’s not a nice thing to say.”
“Yeah, I’m not known for nice. But I’m honest. Honey, Charles is not the guy for you.”
“Excuse me, but Charles was a perfect gentleman.”
A jazz band started playing in the corner, making it harder to hear, so he leaned closer. Unfortunately, she got a good whiff of his cologne, and it went straight to her head. Just her luck Landon smelled like a dream.
She cleared her throat. “And my name is not ‘honey.’ It’s Ava.” She would have added Dr. Ava Rosenthal in a haughty tone, except Landon’s breath brushed her ear, and her entire body locked up. Tight.
“Ava, you need someone who makes you hot. Boring is no good. Not for someone like you.”
She’d swear his lips touched her, and her system seemed to go haywire. Her breasts tightened, she got a funny feeling in the pit of her stomach, and she clenched her thighs together, feeling a lower torso shiver from out of nowhere.
“Like me?” She felt weak and slowly pulled back.
Except that put her at eye level with the man a breath away. He was so close she saw gold flecks in the irises surrounding pinpoints of focus, directed at her. His cheekbones were high, his nose straight, arrogant, his chin square. Manly. His firm lips parted when he inhaled, as if breathing her in.

 

 

about the author

Follow: Goodreads / Twitter /Website/ Facebook

Marie HarteCaffeine addict, boy referee, and romance aficionado, USA Today bestselling author Marie Harte has over 100 books published with more constantly on the way. She’s a confessed bibliophile and devotee of action movies. Whether hiking in Central Oregon, biking around town, or hanging at the local tea shop, she’s constantly plotting to give everyone a happily ever after. Visit http://marieharte.com and fall in love.

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Bargaining for the Billionaire (Seattle Bachelors #3) by JM Stewart-a review

BARGAINING FOR THE BILLIONAIRE (Seattle Bachelors #3) by JM Stewart-a review

Bargaining for the Billionaire

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About the book: Release Date September 13, 2016

You know what they say: billionaires do it better . . .

Grayson Lockwood is every girl’s fantasy. Fabulously weathy? Check. Dangerous good looks, complete with a titillating tattoo on his rock-hard chest? Check. High-powered CEO? Check. Too bad none of that impressed the only woman he ever loved. Since she walked away from him three years ago, Grayson can’t get her out of his mind. To win her back, he’ll have to finally open up about the secrets he’s been keeping. But first, he may have to use a little deception.

Tired of her comatose love life, Madison O’Reilly spices things up by chatting online with a sexy stranger. All she’s really looking for is a hot fling-and BookNerd seems flirtatious and surprisingly attuned to her needs. As their chats become steamier, she begins to wonder just how long she can hold out before she has the real thing. But when he steps out from behind his avatar, Grayson can only hope that Maddie will finally see his true heart

••••••••••

REVIEW: BARGAINING FOR THE BILLIONAIRE is the third installment in JM Stewart’s contemporary, adult SEATTLE BACHELORS erotic, romance series. This is billionaire CEO Grayson Lockwood, and book store co-owner Madison O’ Reilly. BARGAINING FOR THE BILLIONAIRE 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 (Maddie and Grayson) BARGAINING FOR THE BILLIONAIRE is a story of second chances. Three years earlier Grayson Lockwood broke Maddie’s heart. A lie to protect his past caught our story line hero before he had the chance to come clean to the woman he loved, and in the ensuing three years Grayson has struggled with his need for Madison O’Reilly. When a ‘blind-date’ for the upcoming bachelor auction finds Maddie intrigued with first impressions via texts, she is once again blindsided when the man that destroyed her heart is the same man who has featured in all of her erotic dreams and sexting. What ensues is the rekindling of a romance between Maddie and Grayson, and the truth behind Grayson’s lies three years earlier-lies that covered a multitude of scars-inside and out.

The relationship between Maddie and Grayson is one of second chances. Grayson never had the chance to reveal his dark and troubled past before someone leaked the truth about his identity to the media. Maddie is a woman emotionally scarred by a traumatic event in her past, and she struggles with issues of betrayal and trust. When our heroine discovers that Grayson is the man with whom she has been texting for several weeks, she is once again thrown by his deceit and lies. The $ex scenes are intimate and intense. Grayson like s little rope play in the bedroom.

All of the previous story line couples play secondary and supporting roles. We are introduced to Grayson’s best friend Cassandra ‘Cassie’ Stephanopoulos, who struggles with regret, guilt and the loss of someone close. Cassie’s story is next in the final book in JM Stewart’s Seattle Bachelors series.

BARGAINING FOR THE BILLIONAIRE is a story of forgiveness and hope; struggle and acceptance; misunderstanding and a lack of communication; rekindling love and a happily ever after. The premise is inspiring; the characters are damaged but on the mend; the romance is provocative and emotional.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Going Deep (Alpha Ops #5) by Anne Calhoun-a review

GOING DEEP (Alpha Ops #5) by Anne Calhoun-a review

Going Deep

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About the book: Release Date: November 1, 2016

SHE’LL ROCK HIS WORLD

After weeks on a sold-out tour, singer Cady Ward is coming home for the holidays. But after one too many episodes of fan-craziness, Cady’s manager decides that she needs protection—in the form of muscled cop Conn McCormick. Longing for peace and quiet to prepare before her next album drops, Cady doesn’t need a bodyguard just to deal with some vague email threats…though she can’t deny that close proximity to Conn’s body is a very nice place to be.

Conn is in the midst of a career scandal when his boss assigns him to pop-star guard duty. It’s a poor use of his skills, even though Cady’s feisty nature proves the perfect distraction for Conn while Internal Affairs investigates his case. What begins as a sizzling attraction becomes something deeper than either Conn or Cady could have expected. But when Conn uncovers the sinister plan behind the threats to Cady, he’s faced with a professional dilemma: To save her life, will he risk having a future with the only woman who’s ever touched his soul?

•••••••••

REVIEW: GOING DEEP is the fifth instalment in Anne Calhoun’s contemporary, adult ALPHA OPS erotic, romantic suspense series. This is twenty five year old pop star Cady “Maud” Ward, and police officer/ part time security guard Conn McCormick’s story line. GOING DEEP can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from previous story lines is revealed were necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Cady and Conn) GOING DEEP focuses on the threats against our story line heroine. Cady Ward is a pop star professionally known as ‘Maud when a recent series of email threats, and an over zealous fan spark concern for Cady’s safety. Enter police officer Conn McCormick who is assigned as Cady’s full-time, 24/7 live-in security. Conn is on leave while an investigation looks into the accusations against Conn of assault on a suspect. What ensues is the building relationship between Conn and Cady, and Conn’s need to protect the woman with whom he is falling in love.

GOING DEEP follows two paths of investigation: the search for the people responsible for the threats against our story line heroine; and Conn’s own investigation into the assault allegations he knows not to be true. The relationship between Cady and Conn begins as a working arrangement but quickly develops into something more. Conn believes he is not relationship material, and Cady agrees to a friends with benefits association-for now. The $ex scenes are erotic and intense-who doesn’t love a great shower $ex scene.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Detective Matt Dorchester and the love of his life Eve Webber (Under the Surface #4), as well as the introduction of Cady’s manager Chris Wellendorf who has an attraction for Eve’s co-worker Natalie; Conn’s friend and auto mechanic Shane McCool; Shane’s nephew Finn; and Cady’s self-centred and immature younger sister Emily Ward. Seventeen year old Emily struggles with her place in her sister’s new-found fame, and Cady is quick to defend her sister’s actions. There are also a large number of fellow police officers who work with and against our story line hero; and Eve’s bouncer Cesar at ‘Eye Candy’ who offers some information about the accusations against Officer McCormick.

GOING DEEP is a romantic, suspense story line that lacked a little in the suspense department. I guessed the source of the ‘threats’ immediately although the investigation never once looked in that particular direction. The accusations against Conn McCormick never amounted to much, and in the end, the revelations were a bit of a let down, hard to believe and a slightly convoluted. There are always dirty cops in each jurisdiction. The premise is engaging; the characters are animated and energetic ; the romance sexy and hot.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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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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Moon Chosen (Tales of a New World #1) by P.C. Cast-a review

MOON CHOSEN (Tales of a New World #1) by PC Cast-a review

Moon Chosen

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About the book: Release Date October 18, 2016

Chosen to embrace her true identity. Chosen to follow her destiny. Chosen to change her world.

Mari is an Earth Walker, heir to the unique healing powers of her Clan, but she has been forced to turn from her duties, until she is chosen by a special animal ally, altering her destiny forever. When a deadly attack tears her world apart, Mari reveals the strength of her powers and the forbidden secret of her dual nature as she embarks on a mission to save herself and her people. It is not until Nik, the son of the leader from a rival, dominating Tribe, strays across her path that Mari experiences something she has never felt before…

Now evil is coming, and with it, a force more terrible and destructive than the world has ever seen, leaving Mari to cast the shadows from the earth. By breaking Clan Law and forming an alliance with Nik, she must make herself ready. Ready to save her people. Ready to save herself and Nik. Ready to embrace her true destiny…and battle the forces that threaten to destroy them all.

••••••••••

REVIEW: MOON CHOSEN is the first installment in PC Cast’s young adult (YA) TALES OF a NEW WORLD post-apocalyptic/dystopian fantasy series focusing on a new world years after ‘our’ Earth has been destroyed.

Told from several third person points of view MOON CHOSEN follows three characters with intersecting paths. Mari is our heroine-our young woman caught between Clans as she is neither an Earth Walker like her mother, or a Companion like her late father. Nik is a young man who finds himself drawn to our story line heroine; and Dead Eye, who believes himself to be a god amongst man.

MOON CHOSEN, like PC & Kristin Cast’s House of Night series, focuses on gods and goddesses, connections to the Earth, Wind, Moon and Fire, and magic that can be called forth from the elements. As the introductory story line MOON CHOSEN is an extremely long story –over 600 pages- and is awash in a copious amount of world building that focuses or is dependent upon the character development to tell the story. There is an inordinate amount of what can only be described as filler ( and redundancy) that made for a slow build to the story line premise. The author favors long descriptions and prose but in the end, sometimes too much is too much.

The numerous story line characters are divided into three main Clans and Tribes-Earth Walkers (including the Moon Woman), Skin Walkers and Tribe of the Trees (Companions) or combinations thereof, with numerous secondary traits, identities, rituals and powers. There is plenty of discrimination, prejudice and preconceived notions, and an ill-gotten history between the different clans.

PC Cast’s MOON CHOSEN can be a confusing story line as the author divides the attention between three main characters and the paths they have chosen. Most of the action takes place in the final 100 pages or so of the book.

I loved the author’s Parthelon Series (aka Divine Series); struggled with the House of Night YA series co-authored with her daughter Kristin; and have reservations about continuing on the present course with the current series. PC has a more mature writing style than Kristin and it is evident in the story line structure, text and world building but the vast amount of ‘info dumping’ is overwhelming and takes away from the story line premise-the author is building towards the second installment but tends to meander in too many directions.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Tricked (Dark Protectors 7.75) 1001 Dark Nights by Rebecca Zanetti-Review and Book Tour

TRICKED (Dark Protectors 7.75) 1001 Dark Nights by Rebecca Zanetti-Review and Book Tour

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TRICKED
Dark Protectors 7.75
1001 Dark Nights
by Rebecca Zanetti
Release Date: October 25, 2016
Genre: adult, paranormal, romance

Tricked

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 25, 2016

He Might Save Her

Former police psychologist Ronni Alexander had it all before a poison attacked her heart and gave her a death sentence. Now, on her last leg, she has an opportunity to live if she mates a vampire. A real vampire. One night of sex and a good bite, and she’d live forever with no more weaknesses. Well, except for the vampire whose dominance is over the top, and who has no clue how to deal with a modern woman who can take care of herself.

She Might Kill Him

Jared Reese, who has no intention of ever mating for anything other than convenience, agrees to help out his new sister in law by saving her friend’s life with a quick tussle in bed. The plan seems so simple. They’d mate, and he move on with his life and take risks as a modern pirate should. Except after one night with Ronni, one moment of her sighing his name, and he wants more than a mating of convenience. Now all he has to do is convince Ronni she wants the same thing. Good thing he’s up for a good battle.

••••••••••••••

REVIEW: TRICKED (Dark Protectors 7.75) by Rebecca Zanetti is part of the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights anthology. This is vampire Jared Reese, and former police psychologist Ronni Alexander’s story line. We were first introduced to our leading couple in the last novella TEASED where our current heroine had been poisoned and had only weeks to live.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Ronni and Jared) TRICKED focuses on the search for the person who poisoned Ronni. With only days to live vampire Jared Reese offers Ronni immortality but there is a caveat with his offer-Ronni would become Jared’s mate for all eternity, and neither was looking forward to a happily ever after. What ensues is the back and forth, combative relationship between a woman who likes her independence, and a vampire male who is all about protecting his mate.

TRICKED is a story with plenty of action; attacks against Ronni, Jared and their family; and someone from Jared’s past looking for a second chance. When the vampires discover that they have been hacked by an unknown source, Jared’s brother Theo goes on a hunt of his own. The requisite evil follows two paths: the attack against our story line heroine; and an attack against the Reese family heritage. The premise is exciting and lively; the characters are entertaining and captivating; the romance is a battle of wills and of the heart.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Tricked Teaser

excerpt

His muscles tightened as he held himself in check.
She stretched her neck, her body moving against him. “I feel so good.” Holding out her hand, she twisted her arm left and right. “Strong. Well, stronger than I just was.” She rubbed her palm along his whiskers. “That’s not all.”
Yeah. He felt it, too. Attraction. So he turned her to straddle him, feeling her body warm several degrees. “Let me know if I go too fast.”
She leaned in and settled her lips on his. “The first time I saw you, I thought wow. A real wow.”
Her breath brushed his mouth, and he stiffened to remain in control. “Is that a fact?” he asked, waiting for her to make a move. The last thing he wanted to do was frighten her, and he couldn’t tell how much stronger his blood had made her. If at all.
“Yes.” She nibbled at his bottom lip.
Magma boiled through his blood. “When I first saw you, I thought your eyes were the prettiest color I’d ever seen,” he said against her mouth. “Like a fine whiskey that has just caught the light.”
She kissed him, and he could feel her smile. “That’s sweet,” she whispered.
Yeah. That was him. Sweet. Nobody in his entire life had called him that. “I don’t want to rush you,” he said.
She tunneled her hands through his hair and hummed. “But we’re on a bit of a deadline?”
“Yeah.” The slight tug of her fingers hazed red over his vision. “Don’t know how long your extra strength will last.” Probably not very long. And there could be repercussions to her damaged heart from his blood, so they had to mate and now. He stood, easily holding her to him. “Bedroom.”
She wrapped her legs around his waist. “Um. Okay.”

About The Author Black and Red

Rebecca ZanettiNew York Times bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti has worked as an art curator, Senate aide, lawyer, college professor, and a hearing examiner – only to culminate it all in stories about Alpha males and the women who claim them. She is a member of
RWA, has won awards for her works throughout the industry, and has a journalism degree with a poly sci emphasis from Pepperdine University as well as a Juris Doctorate from the University of Idaho.

Growing up amid the glorious backdrops and winter wonderlands of the Pacific Northwest has given Rebecca fantastic scenery and adventures to weave into her stories. She resides in the wild north with her husband, children, and extended family who inspire her
every day-or at the very least give her plenty of characters to write about.

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