Tag Archives: New Release Reviews 2017

Blood Guard (Mission #1) by Megan Erickson-a review

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BLOOD GUARD (Mission #1) by Megan Erickson-a review

Blood Guard

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About the book : Release Date September 12, 2017

Enter a world of immortal danger and desire—and discover an incredible fate borne of blood.

Tendra: One minute, I’m a bartender in gritty Mission City; the next, I’m whisked away by a vampire named Athan who tells me that I’m the lifeblood of his clan. It sounds unbelievable, but he’s got evidence I can’t deny. Turns out, Athan belongs to an underground society of vampires who feed only on humans with their consent. Their enemies have no such qualms, and they want me dead. The only thing standing in their way is strong, sexy Athan. And the closer we get, the more tempted I am to let Athan feed. . . .

Athan: How could I have known when I snatched this snarky, beautiful human off the streets that she would change my destiny? As a loyal soldier, I must deliver Tendra to our future king—my brother. Empowered with the blood of ten generations of the Gregorie breed, she is fated to rule as our queen. But there’s something between us that’s so intoxicating, so carnal, I can’t help wanting Tendra for myself . . . even if it’s treason.

••••

REVIEW: BLOOD GUARD is the first installment in Megan Erickson’s contemporary, adult MISSION paranormal, erotic, romance series. This is vampire Blood Guard Athan and human waitress Tendra’s story line.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Athan and Tendra) BLOOD GUARD introduces the world of the Gregorie vampire-their enemies, a rival vampire clan, known as the Valarians who want to enslave all of humanity as blood banks, and the Quellens (assassins for hire). With the impending arrival of the King-to-be’s Sanguivita, the Gregorie clan prepares for a future awash in unmentionable powers.

Our heroine Tendra is a strong female character; the Sanguivita of the Gregorie clan-the sole human provider of blood to the king-a position she is ill prepared for, and a position of which, she knew nothing about. Athan is Gregorie vampire royalty but a royal designated as the Blood Guard to his brother’s future bride-a spare to the heir, so to speak but a spare whose position within the royal elite will soon come to light. Athan has been tasked to safely escort his brother’s future bride to her new home at the Gregorie compound but the compound has been compromised, and the royal family struggles to stay one step ahead of an unknown threat. What ensues is the building relationship between Athan and Tendra, and the potential fall out when the truth about the royal legacy and the Sanguivita prophecy is fulfilled.

BLOOD GUARD is a story of insta-love; of forbidden romance between soul mates; two people pulled together by love and fate; and the unmistakable allure of what should have been. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text. There is a palpable, sexual attraction between our leading couple-an attraction that does not go unnoticed by the man in charge. Fair warning, there are some M/M, F/F sexual situations between non-relevant characters but situations that explain the attraction and desires during vampire feedings.

We are introduced to Athan’s brother Idris; his best friend Zeb, and Tendra’s co-worker and friend Ruby. There is a large assortment of secondary and supporting characters who come and go throughout the story including Athan and Idris’s father King Connell. Idris’s story line is next BLOOD VEIL November 2017. Here’s hoping the author has plans for Zeb’s HEA.

The world building reveals some of the backstory and touches briefly on the history of the Sanguivita-her role as the sole human blood provider of the Gregorie king including the potential power her blood can gift to the rightful heir. Athan’s earlier years, including his relationship with his brother, struggled in the face of their father’s power and control- a control that will dissipate as the Sanguivita takes her place on the throne. I was hoping for some more information as to the reasons why the Gregorie vampires chose the town of Mission-perhaps it was the availability of the old, underground subway system that allows for a secret city beneath the town.

BLOOD GUARD is a fast paced and intriguing story line. The premise is sexy and energetic- there was nothing earth shattering or new but the story line kept me entertained and interested in the fate of the leading characters; the romance is intense; the characters are colorful and charismatic. Megan Erickson’s BLOOD GUARD is a great start to a new series. I hope you give it a try.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Protecting Dakota (SEAL of Protection #9 /Sleeper SEALs #1) by Susan Stoker-Review & Excerpt Tour

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PROTECTING DAKOTA (SEAL of Protection #9 / Sleeper SEALs #1) by Susan Stoker-Review and Excerpt Tour

Protecting Dakota

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

About the book: Release Date September 5, 2017

PROTECTING DAKOTA

Dakota James’s life has become the stuff of nightmares. The leader of the Ansar al-Shari’a terrorist group has become obsessed with her, determined to take her as his wife. On the run, she’ll have to pin her hopes on the retired SEAL charged with finding and stopping Aziz Fourati before he can carry out plans to bomb more US airports.

Recently recruited to join a sleeper SEAL team tasked with fighting terrorism on US soil, Slade “Cutter” Cutsinger, with the help of some Special Forces friends, has located the one woman who can identify the deadly Ansar al-Shari’a leader. That was the easy part. Keeping her safe proves more difficult than anyone ever imagined.

When she and her new friend, Caroline, are kidnapped by the terrorist group, Dakota can only pray Cutter and the SEALs will reach them before they’re taken out of the country—and away from Cutter forever.

** Protecting Dakota is a part of the SEAL of Protection Series. It is also in the “Sleeper SEAL” connected series. Each book is a stand-alone, with no cliffhanger endings.

Each book in this multi-author branded series is a standalone novel, and the series does not have to be read in order.

•••••••••

REVIEW: PROTECTING DAKOTA is the ninth installment in Susan Stoker’s contemporary, adult SEAL of PROTECTION romantic, military suspense series focusing on a group of current and former Navy SEALS. This is forty eight year old, retired SEAL Slade ‘Cutter’ Cutsinger, and forty three year old, primary school principal Dakota James’s story line. PROTECTING DAKOTA is also the first installment in the multi-authored SLEEPER SEALs anthology series. Each book in the Sleeper SEAL series can be read as a stand alone, and the series does not have to be read in order.

NOTE: PROTECTING DAKOTA contains scenes of graphic violence and sexual assault that may not be suitable for all readers.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Dakota and Slade) PROTECTING DAKOTA focuses on the protection of Dakota James. Dakota is on the run; in hiding; and the only surviving witness to a terrorist bombing at LAX. The leader of the terrorist organization known as Ansar al-Shari’a, Aziz Fourati, has declared war on the US targeting airports around the country, and has made it known that he is determined to take Dakota as his wife. Enter Slade ‘Cutter’ Cutsinger, a retired Navy SEAL who has been recruited by a Sleeper SEAL unit whose missions are dark, off the records, and in no way connected to any other government agency. What ensues is the search for Dakota James, the building relationship between Dakota and Slade, and the fall out when the mission and Dakota’s whereabouts have been compromised by an unknown source.

Dakota James loves her job as a primary school principal but threats against the people and children she loved forced our heroine on the run, trying to stay one step ahead of a mad man determined to make Dakota his wife. Slade Cutsinger’s call back to ‘active duty’ brings our hero up close and personal with the military’s new Sleeper SEALs unit of retired SEALs-a unit where each mission requires a single SEAL to extract or protect on his own. Seeing Dakota’s images immediately sparks interest in our retired Navy SEAL-a longing to be part of a relationship with a woman to love.

The relationship between Dakota and Slade is one of immediate attraction; a story of insta-love, and I mean INSTANT love between two people pulled together by circumstance and threats. The $ex scenes are sensual but limited; mostly implied with the exception of the final erotic scene between our leading couple.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Dakota’s father Finnegan James; Slade’s Retired Navy Commander Greg Lambert; Navy SEAL Matthew ‘Wolf’ Steel and his wife Caroline, Kason “Benny” Sawyer , and Wolf’s commander Patrick Hurt.

PROTECTING DAKOTA is a fast paced, story of suspense and romance. The premise is energetic; the characters are spirited; the romance is passionate and engaging.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

excerpt

Exactly twenty minutes later, Slade knocked on the door of the trailer. Even being apart from her that long was somehow painful. He kept imagining someone sneaking in through the other door and taking Dakota away from him. He might have been upset at his thoughts, except there was every reason for him to believe someone might do just that.
Until he could get Dakota out of Rachel and back where he had cell phone reception to call Tex and make sure they were still in the clear, he wasn’t going to take any chances.
Instead of returning to the bar, Slade leaned against the side of the A’Le’Inn and kept watch over the trailer while Dakota showered. He might be going overboard, but he didn’t think so. She’d been dead to the world when he’d opened the passenger door to her car that morning. She hadn’t even twitched when he’d shut it, either. If he could sneak up on her that easily, so could anyone else. And the thought of Fourati or any of his followers getting their hands on her made him want to hit something.
“I’m ready,” Dakota called out in response to his knock. “Come in.”
Slade turned the knob and entered the small but cozy trailer. As far as accommodations went, it wouldn’t win any traveler awards, but for this town it was downright palatial.
“I saved part of my donut for you,” Dakota told him somewhat shyly.
If he hadn’t already been halfway in love with her, that would’ve sent him over the edge. He knew how much she treasured those maple-frosted pastries…her dad had made it more than clear that no one touched her donuts. “You go ahead, sweetheart. It’s been a while since you’ve had a treat.”
She eyed him for a long moment and he thought she was going to either comment on the use of the endearment, or refuse to eat the pastry he could tell she wanted by the look in her eyes, but she finally shrugged and gave him a small smile.

About the author

Susan StokerNew York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author, Susan Stoker has a heart as big as the state of Texas where she lives, but this all-American girl has also spent the last fourteen years living in Missouri, California, Colorado, and Indiana. She’s married to a retired Army man who now gets to follow her around the country.

She debuted her first series in 2014 and quickly followed that up with the SEAL of Protection Series, which solidified her love of writing and creating stories readers can get lost in.

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The Billionaires: The Bosses by Calista Fox-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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The Billionaires: The Bosses by Calista Fox-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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THE BILLIONAIRES: THE BOSSES
Lover’s Triangle #2
by Calista Fox
Release Date: September 5 , 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance

The Billionaires The Bosses

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 5, 2017

What do you do when you have not just one hot boss, but two? And they both want you?

What will it take to make her theirs?

Bayli Styles leaves California wine country behind for the bright lights of New York City, in search of fame and fortune. However, fame and fortune are a little further out of reach than she had hoped, so to supplement her meager modeling income, she seeks a hostess position at Manhattan’s hottest new venue, owned by billionaires Rory St. James and Christian Davila. Bayli gets much more than she bargained for when both devastatingly handsome and magnetic men make her blood sizzle…and offer her the guiltiest of all pleasures–themselves.

Bayli is the perfect solution to the two problems currently plaguing entrepreneurs Rory and Christian, professionally and sexually. She’d make the ultimate -face- for their current joint venture, but both men are thinking beyond business and waste no time seducing Bayli into their brand of double pleasure. In the end, the threesome will put it all on the line–their bodies, their hearts, their souls–either destined for failure, or for the redefinition of true love.

This is a standalone menage romance with an HEA.

•••••••••••

REVIEW: The Bosses begins with Bayli going in for a job interview at NYC’s hottest new restaurant, only to run into (literally!) a little trouble with one of the co-owners, Rory St. James, who just happens to be a world famous chef known for being difficult and demanding in his kitchens. Knowing right off the bat that she’s not going to get the job she applied for, she sets her sights on co-owner #2. Bayli is bound and determined to make him notice her, which only takes about a nanosecond when she enters the party he’s attending. Having accomplished what she set out to do, she heads out at the end of the party and finds herself stranded miles from the city. Luckily for her, co-owner #2, Christian Davila, has stayed late at the party and offers her a ride into the city. She accepts his offer, not knowing that that decision would affect the rest of her life in ways that she hadn’t ever imagined………..

The Bosses is the first I’ve read by Calista Fox. I enjoyed all three main characters. Bayli was fun with her take on things and her boldness. I also liked the way Rory and Christian were written: one being fiery and demanding, while the other was more methodical and thoughtful. I enjoyed the storyline, even though it was pretty predictable. There’s a lot of sizzle in this book, which leaves the whole plot feeling a little forced to me. However, my overall feeling about the book is a good one. If you’re a fan of ménage stories, and maybe even if you’re not, I think you’ll enjoy the book. It’s entertaining and a pretty quick read, with some funny moments as well. I would definitely entertain reading another Calista Fox book.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Vickie M.

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Click HERE to read CHAPTER ONE of THE BILLIONAIRES: THE BOSSES by Calista Fox

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Follow: Goodreads / Website / Twitter / Facebook

Calista FoxCalista is a former PR professional, now writing fast-paced, steamy books to set your pulse racing! Her publishing houses include St. Martin’s Press, Grand Central Publishing and Harlequin. She is an Amazon bestseller and has won many Reviewer’s and Reader’s Choice Awards, as well as Best Book Awards.

Calista is a college graduate and teaches online writing classes. She is also a Past President/Advisor of the Phoenix chapter of the Romance Writers of America national organization.

 

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Calista Fox’s publisher (St. Martin’s) is graciously offering a paper copy of of THE BILLIONAIRES: The Bosses to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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The Real Thing (Sugar Lake #1) by Melissa Foster-Review Tour & Giveaway

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THE REAL THING (Sugar Lake #1) by Melissa Foster-Review Tour and Giveaway

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THE REAL THING
Sugar Lake #1
by Melissa Foster
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance
Release Date: September 5, 2017

The Real Thing

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 5, 2017

This sassy, spirited baker is fine with heat—but is her fake fiancé too hot to handle?

Bakery owner Willow Dalton’s friendship with Zane Walker has always been a bit complicated. Now a scrumptiously hot A-list actor, Zane’s always had a reputation as player. He’s arrogant, and he’s definitely not boyfriend material. Sure, he did Willow a favor by agreeing to take her virginity before college, but is that reason enough to go along with a fake engagement a decade later—even if it comes with a real diamond ring?

Zane should have known better. Nothing involving Willow has ever been easy. Still, he knows her better than anyone, and becoming America’s hottest new leading man means cleaning up his reputation. An “engagement” to curvy, sass-mouthed Willow is the perfect PR move . . . provided no one gets hurt.

Now Zane and Willow’s little white lie has turned into an irresistible recipe for sweet temptation. And soon no one will be able to tell the difference between their fake engagement or the real thing—including them.

••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE REAL THING is the first installment in Melissa Foster’s contemporary, adult SUGAR LAKE romance series focusing on the men and women of Sweetwater, New York. This is Hollywood actor and former Sweetwater resident Zane Walker, and bakery owner Willow Dalton’s story line,

Told from dual third person perspectives (Willow and Zane) THE REAL THING is the ‘quadfecta or four-pack’ of romance tropes: friends to lovers, second chances, best friend’s younger sister, and fake fiancé. Zane Walker’s reputation as a ‘manwhore’ precedes our hero’s return to his childhood home of Sweetwater (Sugar Lake), New York. When his latest big budget movie is scheduled to begin filming in and around Sweetwater, our hero devises a plan to clean up his celebrity image using his best friend’s younger sister as the foil to his reputation- offer a two week, no-strings attached ‘fake fiance’ proposal to his best friend’s younger sister Willow Dalton, in return for an exclusive catering contract with the movie production company. What ensues is the building romance between Willow and Zane, and the potential fall out if the truth were revealed.

Willow has loved Zane Walker for as long as she can remember. Zane was Willow’s first ‘everything’ but Willow and Zane walked away from one another, towards their own independent futures, without looking back. Zane headed to Hollywood and broke Willow’s heart, and it is the ensuing, tempestuous, fake fiancé relationship that struggles with Willow’s inability to trust or to let go of the bad memories from the past.

The relationship between Zane and Willow is one of second chances but a relationship damaged by Zane’s Hollywood reputation, as well as his lack of contact with our story line heroine. Willow ‘gave’ Zane her virginity before escaping to college but Zane’s life as an actor took control, and everyone and everything in Sweetwater became a distant memory for our story line hero when fame and notoriety took hold. Yet, like many things in life, misunderstanding and a lack of communication prove that Zane never forgot about the only woman he would ever love but Sweetwater held too many bad memories about his own dysfunctional family. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a very large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Willow’s extended family: her sisters Piper, Talia and Bridgette, nephew Louie, brother Ben, and their parents Roxie and Dan. We are introduced to Zane’s co-star Remi Divine and her brother Aiden as well as Zane’s personal assistant Patch Carver, and Aurelia Stark-a woman who runs the local book store. There are some heated glances between many of the secondary characters. Bridgette and Bodhi Booker’s story line is next in ONLY FOR YOU (December 2017).

The world building focuses on the people and town of Sweetwater, New York: their lives, their families, their business, and their loves.

THE REAL THING is a sweet and sexy story of second chances but I struggled with Willow’s early and misdirected emotions as it pertained to the ‘fake fiancé ‘ scenario. Our heroine knew going in that playing Zane‘s fiancé required a little bit of acting and physical contact yet she continued to push all of Zane’s buttons in regards to the entire fake fiancé trope. The premise is entertaining and fun; the romance is fun, sexy and provocative; the characters are numerous, colorful and very opinionated 😉 . THE REAL THING is an enjoyable but familiar story with a heartwarming couple and an energetic cast.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Series Spotlight

Only For YouONLY FOR YOU
(Sugar Lake #2)
by Melissa Foster
Release Date: December 5, 2017

Pre Order -> Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon. uk / Amazon.au /

Love only works when your heart is in the right place. Hers could be right next door…

Single mom Bridgette Dalton doesn’t have time to stop and smell the roses—not even in her own flower shop. But that doesn’t mean she hasn’t noticed Bodhi Booker. Her ruggedly handsome next-door neighbor would be the perfect candidate for a no-strings fling. Having loved and lost, Bridgette’s not ready to hand over her heart…but she could use a distraction.

Bodhi has one rule: never leave anyone behind. As a special operative, he knows that each new mission is more dangerous than the last. He’s never made a promise of forever to a woman, not even to the beautiful widow who has him tied in knots. And if there were anyone who could tempt him into putting down roots, it would be Bridgette and her adorable son.

But as his next deployment nears, they make a startling discovery. Their passion, meant only for the here and now, might already be blossoming into something more.

 

The Real Thing teaser

about the author

Melissa FosterMelissa Foster is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling and award-winning author. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance, new adult romance (M/F, M/M, F/F), romantic suspense, thrillers, and historical fiction with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Melissa’s emotional journeys are lovingly erotic and always family oriented. Her books have been recommended by USA Today’s book blog, Hagerstown Magazine, The Patriot, and several other print venues. She is the founder of the World Literary Café. When she’s not writing, Melissa helps authors navigate the publishing industry through her author training programs on Fostering Success.Melissa has painted and donated several murals to The Hospital for Sick Children in Washington, DC. Her interests include her family, reading, writing, painting, friends, helping others see the positive side of life, and visiting Cape Cod.

Melissa is available to chat with book clubs and welcomes comments and emails from her readers. Visit Melissa on Facebook or her personal website.

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Find Melissa on the following sites….

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Vigor (Spartan Riders MC #3) by JC Valentine-Review, Excerpt and Giveaway

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VIGOR (Spartan Riders #3) by JC Valentine-Review, Excerpt and Giveaway Tour

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VIGOR
Spartan Riders MC #3
by JC Valentine
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, MC, romance
Release Date: August 29, 2017

Vigor

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

ABOUT THE BOOK : Release Date August 29, 2017

After escaping an abusive marriage, Spartan Riders bartender Ginger “Red” Mercury is determined to live life on her own terms. When the club’s VP declares her untouchable and stakes his own claim on her, she finds herself ready to wage war.

A year after inoculating the threat from notorious cartel leader Ricky Cruiz, Garrick “Repo” Stone, the last-standing original member of the Spartan Riders MC, has his focus on something else: monogamy. Having decided to settle down and take an ol’ lady, he has his sights set on Red…and he has his work cut out for him if he hopes to win her.

When a new threat makes itself known, threatening everything the brothers stand for and care about, they’re left scrambling to find out who’s behind it before it’s too late. With the high-stakes game of war looming over them, will Red be able to open her heart to love before outside forces pull her and Repo apart?

••••••••••

REVIEW: VIGOR is the third installment in JC Valentine’s contemporary, adult SPARTAN RIDERS erotic, MC, romance series focusing on the men and women of the Spartan Riders MC. This is club VP Garrick ‘Repo’ Stone, and club bartender/bunny Ginger ‘Red’ Mercury’s story line. VIGOR can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous installments is revealed where necessary.

NOTE: VIGOR contains graphic scenes of violence, questionable behavior, and sexual scenarios that may not be suitable for all readers.

Told from several third person perspectives including Garrick and Ginger, VIGOR focuses on the acrimonious relationship between the Spartan Riders’ VP and last-standing original club member Garrick ‘Repo’ Stone, and the Club’s bartender, mother hen and bunny Ginger ‘Red’ Mercury. Years earlier, college freshman Ginger Mercury had a one night stand with the sexy but married biker Garrick Stone, and neither one would ever forget their first time together. Years would pass, marriages would dissolve, and a long trail of men and women, including one another, both in and out of their lives would find the now forty two year old Spartan Riders’ VP looking to settle down. Declaring Ginger off-limits and claiming our heroine as his own, Garrick sets about staking a claim for the woman that has called to heart for far too long. What ensues is the building but tempestuous relationship between Garrick and Ginger, and the hunt for a spy inside of the Club. The ongoing war between the Spartan Riders and the Cruiz cartel threatens not only the MC but the women they love.

VIGOR is another dark and gritty MC story line that focuses on the lives, loves and threats against the Spartan Riders’ members and anyone who potentially crosses their path. We get up close and personal with Garrick and Ginger, as well as revisiting two couples from the past: Blake and Gabby (Grit #1) ; Tucker and Talia (Mettle #2). There is trouble brewing for Curtis ‘Taco’ Nash; and someone in the club is ratting out their secrets to the Cruiz cartel.

The relationship between Ginger and Garrick is a frenemies to lovers; a second chance for both in the hopes of settling down and ending the roller coaster and emotional upheaval of nameless one-night stands. Throughout the years Garrick and Ginger continued to ‘hook up’ but Ginger had her share of abuse in a previous relationship that ended in divorce, and she wasn’t willing to let go of her independence for any man including Garrick Stone. Ginger is a strong willed, alpha female who gives as good as she gets but Ginger has a past with the Club President, and it is that past that clouds her judgment about her relationship with Garrick Stone. The $ex scenes are aggressive, rough, intense and provocative.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including several members of the Spartan Riders MC, as well as the newly crowned ‘queen’ of the Cruiz drug cartel-Luciana Cruiz-who is plotting revenge and the take over of the Spartan Riders clubhouse and territory.

Like many MC stories and series, the biker lifestyle is dangerous and dark. There are no hearts and flowers: the men are rough, misogynistic, and somewhat abusive-woman are used; rarely respected, and nothing more than an object for sexual release and aggression. Monogamy is rare; respect is limited. Finding the woman that calls to their heart is uncommon but the Club members are each slowly succumbing to love and a happily ever after-for now. The premise is edgy; the characters are rough, brash and independent; the romance is spirited and intense.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Grit
Mettle
Vigor
Brash

The ebook copy of GRIT (book 1) is FREE for a limited time:
Amazon.com / Amazon. ca /

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Vigor Teaser

Excerpt

 

Ginger opened her eyes to the feel of Garrick’s fingertips lightly stroking the side of her face and realized she’d fallen asleep.
Breathing deep, she sat back, wincing at the pinch in her spine. “How long was I out?” she asked groggily as she touched her fingers to her hot, damp cheek—the one that’d been pressed against his chest.
“About an hour.” Garrick plucked his shirt, grimacing. “You drool.”
“I do not!” Ginger flushed, feeling fifty shades of embarrassed. Because sometimes she did drool. But she was not about to admit that.
“Tell that to my shirt.” He looked over at her and smirked. “No worries, babe. Your secret is safe with me. Besides, it’s nice to know you have at least one flaw.”
Ginger scowled, then frowned as his words registered. “You thought I was, what, perfect?”
“The thought had occurred to me.” Standing, Garrick crossed his arms over one another, grabbed the hem of his shirt, and stripped it over his head.
Ginger could only stare at the perfection he presented. Even for an older man, he had an incredible body. It was obvious from the thick, defined muscle that he took care of himself. And that dusting of salt and pepper hair that ran in an upside-down V from his chest to his waistband got her panties all in a twist.
He was so masculine and sexy, it hurt to look at him.
Licking her lips, Ginger remembered their conversation. “Well, I’m not perfect. I’m just me. You though…wow.”
Oh man, had she just said that out loud? Garrick’s gaze captured hers, and yeah, she definitely had. And it was clearly going to his head.
And not the one in his pants.
“Like what you see?”
Well, she’d already stuck her foot in it. No sense in beating around the bush now. “You know I do.” They’d had sex before, and she’d let him go down on her last night. Considering how wet she’d been then, it should be obvious.
“Then maybe,” Garrick said, his gruff voice full of seduction as he leaned down over her, bracing his hands on the back of the couch, so she had to tilt her head all the way back to meet his eyes, “you should act on it.”
Ginger pressed her lips together. Her fingers itched to touch him, to explore the body that’d felt so good on hers so long ago. She wanted to get properly reacquainted. But should she? She’d already messed up and let him do things she never should have allowed. If she took this step, if she let him have her completely…he’d have her completely.
And he knew it.


 

 

about the author

J.C.-Valentine

J.C. Valentine is the USA Today and International bestselling author of the Night Calls and Wayward Fighters Series and the Forbidden Trilogy. Her vivid imagination and love of words and romance had her penning her own romance stories from an early age, which, despite being poorly edited and written longhand, she forced friends and family members to read. No, she isn’t sorry.

Living in the Northwest, she has three amazing children and far too many pets. Among the many hats she wears, J.C. is an entrepreneur. Having graduated with honors, she holds a Bachelor’s in English and when she isn’t writing, you can find her editing for fellow authors.

Sign up for J.C.’s newsletter and never miss a thing! http://bit.ly/1KxXWWB

Website • Twitter • Facebook • Pinterest • Google+ • Amazon Author Page • Goodreads

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Going Dark (The Lost Platoon #1) by Monica McCarty-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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GOING DARK (The Lost Platoon #1) by Monica McCarty-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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GOING DARK
The Lost Platoon #1
by Monica McCarty
Release Date: September 5, 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary, romantic, military suspense

Going Dark

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 5, 2017

Like Rome’s Lost Legion, a SEAL platoon goes on a mission and vanishes without a trace.

After walking into a trap on a covert op in Russia, the men from top secret SEAL Team Nine are presumed dead. Not knowing whom they can trust, and with war hanging in the balance, the survivors must go dark and scatter around the globe.

Marine ecologist Annie Henderson joins her new boyfriend on a trip to the Western Isles of Scotland to protest a hazardous offshore drilling venture. When she realizes that she may be swept up in something far more dangerous than she’d intended, there is only one man she can turn to. . . .

She and the mysterious but sexy dive boat captain haven’t exactly gotten off to the best start, but something about his quiet confidence makes her think that he’s the kind of man she can depend on. Because he’s gruff and guarded, she can tell Dan Warren has secrets. But she could never imagine how high the stakes are for him to keep his cover, even as he risks everything to protect her.

••••••••••

REVIEW: 4 out of 5 for this reader folks!

Going Dark by Monica McCarty is a contemporary romance with a serious dose of action and suspense. If you like your story line having a bit of everything then this is certainly a good book to pick up. I will say, those that have knowledge of military and political jargon/acronyms just may enjoy this a tad more. There is much for a person with limited knowledge to take in and I can understand that it may be a little confusing. I happen to be someone who has served and knows much about military language and op procedures, so this wasn’t hard for me to follow.

The book starts off with a bang. SEAL Team Nine is sent on a Black Ops mission and it happens to go terribly wrong. Assumed dead, they are soon conveniently “forgotten” despite the fact that there are survivors. These survivors (which I expect will be the main characters in the books of the series), decide to stay undercover only revealing the truth to a few people, and swear to get answers for their failed mission and lost team mates.

Our leading male is Dean. Dean was the chief of SEAL Team Nine and if currently laying low in Scotland. He is a no nonsense kind of guy who leads by example, is tough as nails, conservative and set in his way of thinking. Very aware of what could happen and be lost, Dean will do just about anything to find the answers he is desperate for.

Annie is our leading lady. Annie is an ecologist, activist, and totally liberal in her thinking. She has set off to Scotland with her boyfriend to protest some off shore drilling. There she meets Dan (who is actually Dean undercover), who accompanies her on an expedition to the drilling grounds. There is an instant attraction and despite having a boyfriend (if that is what we call him .. I would like to call him dip**** ..lol) she feels very drawn in a way she isn’t with her current guy. But no time to act on attraction just yet .. little does she know her expedition to do good will turn into a fight for her life and for Deans.

I really loved the action and adventure in this book. I have a thing for opposites attract so I was pleased with the constant lusty bickering Annie and Dean do. I did however roll my eyes a couple of times when the predictable argument of liberal vs conservative popped up. I don’t mind the opposite views, it was just that it came across a little “naggy” at times. I did find though, that Annie and Dean really tried to get thru all the turmoil together, and let love just happen even when it shouldn’t.

Monica also has another side romance story going between other characters as well, so you do in fact get more bang for your buck where couples are concerned. A good flow to the story line, I never found myself bored or wanting to skip read. I love that both our leads are equally passionate when it come to their personal beliefs, experiences, morals and affection for the other.

Fantastic read for those that like the adventure, military and love. I will eagerly await the next novel!

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Rachel T

Going Dark teaser

Excerpt

Dean was about to turn up his street when a woman darted past him. She was so preoccupied with whatever was bothering her that she didn’t notice him.
But he noticed her. The sexy brunette had been the focus of too many of his sex-starved thoughts for him not to have recognized that shadowed figure right away.
His thoughts immediately turned to anger. What the hell was she doing out here alone at this time of night?
Granted Stornoway wasn’t exactly the mean streets of name-your-favorite American inner city, but it had its share of illegal activity—especially along the waterfront—and it wasn’t a place where a young woman should be walking alone in the middle of the night.
He went after her without thinking. Proving his point, she took way too long to realize he was behind her.
He could tell by the way she jumped when she turned around that he’d startled her.
But it didn’t last. As soon as she recognized him, her eyes narrowed angrily. “Why are you following me? You scared me!”
“Good. You shouldn’t be out here alone—” He stopped suddenly, seeing her expression. She looked about ready to burst into tears. “What’s wrong?”
Unconsciously he’d reached for her arm. Why the hell he’d done that he had no clue. He didn’t go around touching women without an invitation.
He released her before she could protest. But if she’d noticed the too-personal gesture, she didn’t let on.
“Nothing,” she replied, her expression too blank.
He held her gaze long enough for her to see that he knew she was lying. It must not be something she did often, because a guilty blush rose to her cheeks.
She was so damned cute. He wanted to . . .
Fuck.
He took a step back.
Go dark. Don’t do anything to risk your cover.
He heard the warnings loud and clear. But he couldn’t very well let her walk around alone. What if something happened?
“Where’s your boyfriend?”
The tightening around her mouth before she responded gave a big hint of what might be bothering her. Trouble in paradise? Now, that was a cryin’ shame.
“He’s still at camp. He’s hanging around for the music. Julien plays guitar.”
Dean didn’t care if he was Jimmy Hendrix returning from the dead for one last show. “And he let you walk back alone?”
She immediately stiffened, giving him a scathing look. “He didn’t let me do anything. I make my own decisions.”
From the way she said it, it was clear she thought he was some kind of medieval misogynistic pig.
One of those, was she? He should have guessed. That kind of oversensitive feminist crap drove him crazy—not everything was a “microagression.” Being a strong woman didn’t mean you could be stupid about personal safety. And all he’d meant was that douche bag should have cared enough about her safety enough to insist on accompanying her.
Although admittedly Julien probably wasn’t much of a defense.
“Then your decision was a shitty one.”
She looked stunned. “You just say whatever you think, don’t you? I wasn’t asking for your opinion.”
“Well, you got it.” He gave her a long look, taking in the Tulane sweatshirt, tight jeans that left no room to hide anything, and flip-flops. “And unless you are a black belt jujitsu specialist or trained in self-defense and carrying some kind of weapon, I’m walking you to the guest house.”
She looked up at him half outraged and half bemused, as if she couldn’t quite believe someone like him actually existed. It was a look he’d been on the receiving end of more than once.
Eventually her mouth twisted with a smile. “How do you know I’m not?”
“Because if you had any secret ninja skills, from the way you were looking at me a few minutes ago, I’d be on my ass right now.”

About the author

Click HERE to learn about Monica McCarty

Follow: Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter

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The Reading Cafe and Monica’s publisher are graciously offering a paper copy of GOING DARK to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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9. Giveaway runs from September 6-11, 2017

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Play Room (Society X #3) by Heidi McLaughlin & LP Dover-Review

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Play Room (Society X #3) by Heidi McLaughlin & LP Dover-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

 

PLAY ROOM
Society X #3
by Heidi McLaughlin & LP Dover
Release Date: September 4, 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance

 

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

About the book: Release Date September 4, 2017

The rules of Society X are simple . . . break them and you’re out.
Rule #1 – No names
It doesn’t matter if you want to know, it’s forbidden.
Rule #2 – No exchanging numbers
It doesn’t matter if you want to call, it’s forbidden.
Rule #3 – Everything is to remain strictly anonymous.
It doesn’t matter if you want to tell, it’s forbidden.
Whatever your desire.
Whatever your fetish.
The Play Room is the place to go.

For Alexandria Miller, it’s a chance to express herself, to embrace her hidden passions.

For Kai Robicheau, being in the club brings out who he truly is.

What happens in the Play Room will have you aching for more .

•••••••••••

REVIEW: PLAY ROOM is the third installment in the contemporary, adult SOCIETY X erotic, romance series co-authored by Heidi McLaughlin and LP Dover. This is real estate developer Kai Robicheau, and twenty five year old preacher’s daughter/ caterer Alexandria Miller’s story line. Society X is an exclusive sex club where membership has its’ privileges and sometimes the cost is too high. PLAY ROOM can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Kai and Alexandria) PLAY ROOM follows the building relationship between real estate developer Kai Robicheau, and caterer Alexandria Miller. Alex is a twenty five year old virgin with very little sexual experience. When a friend suggests a membership at the exclusive Portland sex club Society X Alex is reluctant to join. But a quick tour, and the enticement of anonymous sexual pleasure has our heroine considering her options for the future. Enter real estate developer Kai Robicheau, a man looking for no-strings attached sexual rendezvous as his time in Portland is limited to the expiry date on his current job. What ensues are the nameless and faceless sexual encounters between Kai and Alexandria; and the building relationship between our leading couple that begins to crumble with the discovery of their mutual Society X clandestine meetings.

The relationship between Kai and Alexandria begins as an anonymous affair: the nameless, faceless meetings at Society X find our couple, individually hoping for something more but something that is never going to happen as per the rules of the exclusive Society X. Meeting one another at a local function finds Alex and Kai pushing aside their evening rendezvous, neither one knowing, the other is their anonymous sexual fling.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including the local Sweet Briar mayor, Pastor Larry, Kai co-workers on the real estate development, as well as a number of friends and family who push our heroine to find the man of her dreams.

The world building focuses on the building relationship between Kai and Alexandria-Society X does not play a major role in the story line but does bring together our leading couple, if only for anonymous sexual encounters.

PLAY ROOM is a sweeter , tamer story line than the previous two installments. There is very little conflict other than the ‘unknown’ but saying that the introduction of Alex’s high school sweetheart felt out of place, and added no anxious or conflicting moments. The premise is engaging but it lacked the excitement of the previous books; the characters are likeable and heartwarming; the romance is seductive and passionate although I question how neither one physically recognized the other once their time together took a more personal turn. The $ex scenes are intimate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Dark Room
Viewing Room
Play Room

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

excerpt

 

“Hello?”
“Alexandria, this is Jared from Society X. How are you?”
I gasp and look around, hoping like hell the woman beside me couldn’t hear. “Yes, hi. I’m doing good. You?” Grabbing my bottle of water, I hurry off the stair climber to a vacant corner across the room.
“Can’t complain. I’m calling because I have a proposition you might be interested in. You put in your application that you’re open to anything. Is that correct?”
My cheeks burn like fire. “Yeah, I guess so. What exactly is this proposition?”
He clears his throat. “I have a client who has particular tastes, or fetishes if you prefer. His partner can’t make it tonight, and I need to fill that spot.”
Swallowing hard, my heart races. I’m nervous just hearing him talk about it. “What will I have to do?”
“You, absolutely nothing. All you’ll have to do is lie there on your stomach while your partner massages your backside.”
“You mean my back?” I ask.
He clears his throat again. “No, your ass.”
I don’t know what comes over me, but I burst out laughing. “You’re joking, right?”
“No, I’m not.”
I hush up quickly. “I honestly didn’t know that was a thing. It’s an interesting concept.”
“Is it something you’d be interested in? You don’t have to be naked. Your upper body will be covered by a curtain so you can wear a shirt. However, below your waist, you’ll need to wear a thong.”
Keeping a straight face and not laughing is going to be the hardest part of the whole thing. How can someone get off by rubbing someone’s ass? “Sure, put me down. What time do I need to be there?” I say it before even really thinking it through.
“Eight o’clock. I’ll see you then,” Jared says.
“All right.”
We hang up, and I head straight for the gym door. There’s no way I can keep something like that a secret from my friends. Once outside, I call Dani.
“What’s up, girl?”
I rush to my car and hop inside. “You will not believe the phone call I just got.”
“What’s going on?”
I haven’t told her about being a member of Society X yet. “I kind of became a member of Society X.”
“Holy shit,” she squeals. “Seriously? Why didn’t you tell me at work today?”
Sighing, I pull out of the parking lot for home. “Honestly, I didn’t think I’d get a request so fast. My contact called me and said he had a proposition for me. And get this, it’s for the play room. The guy wants to massage my ass.”
Dani’s cackle is so loud I have to hold the phone away from my ear. “That’s priceless. Please tell me you said yes.”
I groan. “Unfortunately. What if I burst out laughing while this dude’s squeezing my butt cheeks?”
Dani’s laughing so hard I’m surprised she can even breathe. “I don’t know what to say. This is too funny. What kind of freak gets off on someone’s ass?”
“Obviously, the man I’m about to give my ass to.” I’m starting to think I made a mistake accepting the proposition. At least, I’ll have a good story to tell later. “Wish me luck.”
“Good luck, chickee. I want all the details.”
On the way home, I glance at myself in the mirror. What the hell am I doing? 

 

About The Author

Heidi McLaughlin: Website / Facebook / Twitter / Newsletter / Goodreads / Instagram

Heidi McLaughlinHeidi is a New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author.

Originally from the Pacific Northwest, she now lives in picturesque Vermont, with her husband and two daughters. Also renting space in their home is an over-hyper Beagle/Jack Russell, Buttercup, two Parakeets, Gonzo & Hedwig, and their newest addition of a Highland West/Mini Schnauzer, Jill.

During the day Heidi is behind a desk talking about Land Use. At night, she’s writing one of the many stories planned for release or sitting court-side during either daughter’s basketball games.

––––––––––––––

L.P. Dover: Website/ Facebook/ Twitter/ Google+ / Newsletter / Goodreads

L.P.DoverNew York Times and USA Today Bestselling author, L.P. Dover, is a southern belle residing in North Carolina along with her husband and two beautiful girls. Before she even began her literary journey she worked in Periodontics enjoying the wonderment of dental surgeries.

Not only does she love to write, but she loves to play tennis, go on mountain hikes, white water rafting, and you can’t forget the passion for singing. Her two number one fans expect a concert each and every night before bedtime and those songs usually consist of Christmas carols.

Aside from being a wife and mother, L.P. Dover has written countless novels including her Forever Fae series, the Second Chances series, the Gloves Off series, the Armed & Dangerous series, the Royal Shifters series, and her standalone novel, Love, Lies, and Deception. Her favorite genre to read is romantic suspense and she also loves writing it. However, if she had to choose a setting to live in it would have to be with her faeries in the Land of the Fae.

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Perfect Pitch (Found in Oblivion #5) by Cari Quinn & Taryn Elliott-a review

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PERFECT PITCH (Found in Oblivion #5) by Cari Quinn and Taryn Elliott-a review

Perfect Pitch

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 1, 2017

A lead singer, a professor, and another lead singer walk into a bedroom…

Molly McIntire loves her career as the lead singer of the band Warning Sign. Who she does not love?

The cocky, seductive lead singer of The Grunge, rockstar Luc Moreau, who through a series of misfortunate events ends up singing with her.

In her band. On her stage. Together.

It’s like getting naked, with a microphone between them. So is there any surprise they’re tempted to hate screw each other afterward?

But someone sees them with their tempers running hot. And open-minded Professor Ethan Haywood wants them both, in every dirty, decadent way. For a night or so much more.

Except he’s not the only one who’s watching them—and the band. Their every move is being monitored, and when the lights go out, not everyone will still be standing.

Suddenly it’s not just about falling into bed for Molly, Luc, and Ethan, but falling in love when everything they know and love is in danger.

Author’s note: This book contains mènage scenes, and while the men are always focused on the woman, they also focus on each other. With and without their clothes on.

Author’s note part deux: While the romantic relationship ends in a full HEA, there are ongoing events that will not be fully explained or resolved until the next book, Raw Rhythm.

••••••

REVIEW: PERFECT PITCH is the fifth installment in Cari Quinn and Taryn Elliott’s contemporary, adult FOUND IN OBLIVION erotic, rock, romance series focusing on the members of the rock band Warning Sign. This is lead singer for the rock back The Grunge Luc Moreau, lead singer for Warning Sign Molly McIntire, and professor Ethan Haywood’s story line. The FOUND IN OBLIVION series is a spin off from Quinn and Elliott’s LOST IN OBLIVION series. Several characters from LIO cross over including band manager Lila Shawcross and Ripper Records owner Donovan Lewis. You do not have to have read the other series to follow or understand the events of PERFECT PITCH. Perfect Pitch can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.

NOTE: PERFECT PITCH contains graphic MFM and MMF sexual situations, language and text, and may not be suitable for all readers.

Told from three third person perspectives (Luc, Molly, and Ethan) PERFECT PITCH follows the building relationship between Luc Moreau,  lead singer for the rock back The Grunge, lead singer of Warning Sign Molly McIntire, and professor Ethan Haywood. After a series of PR nightmares for Luc Moreau, and a confrontation between Molly McIntire and Ripper Records upper management, our couple find themselves pushed together to front Warning Sign, leaving The Grunge floundering to remain a viable band. Professor Ethan Haywood’s attraction to Molly McIntire has the added bonus of their mutual attraction to Molly’s new band mate Luc Moreau but keeping their ménage relationship a secret struggles in the face of overzealous paparazzi, and Molly’s need to hide the truth from Ripper Records management. What ensues is the building romance between Molly, Ethan and Luc, as Molly and Luc battle one another for professional control.

PERFECT PITCH is a sexy and sassy story line about three people who find love when they least expect it. The roller coaster of emotions is threatened by heartbreaking family history, as well as a turn of events that will leave the reader wondering what the h*ll happened and why. The ménage relationship is passionate, erotic and intense-the $ex scenes leave little to the reader’s imagination.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including all of the members of Warning Sign (Michael Shawcross and Chloe, Juliette, Tristan and Randy,vLauren and West, Malachi Shawcross, and Elle Crandall), The Grunge, as well as Lila Shawcross and Donovan Lewis. The world building continues to focus on the bands, the music, and the struggles to make it big in an industry where everyone believes they should be number one. Malachi and Elle’s story line is next in Raw Rhythm.

PERFECT PITCH is also a story of slow building intrigue when a series of questionable events begin to snowball in a potentially life threatening drama aimed at the members of Warning Sign. The premise is exciting, intoxicating and heartbreaking; the characters are edgy, colorful and dynamic; the romance is seductive, provocative and hot. PERFECT PITCH ends on a cliffhanger- an agonizing and painful reminder that fame comes at a cost. Keep your tissues handy, you’re going to need them.

Reading Order and previous reviews
Bedded Bliss
Triple Trouble
Dirty Duet
Lost Lyric
Perfect Pitch
Raw Rhythm (November 2017)

Copy supplied for review.

Reviewed by Sandy

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