Tag Archives: New Release Reviews 2018

Who We Were by Melissa Collins-Review Tour

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WHO WE WERE by Melissa Collins-Review Tour

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 2, 2018.

Who We Were…

Two awkward teenagers – the loner and the nerd, trying to find our place in the world. Paired in wood shop, we knew nothing of each other, except that we wanted to know everything. Then one life altering moment changed it all and we were left with shattered dreams and broken hearts.

Who We Are…

Two grown men – braver and smarter than we used to be, trying to heal the damage from that irrevocable moment. Even though the past was behind us, dead and buried long ago, we found it impossible to move on without ripping open the scars of our deep wounds.

With twelve years of unanswered questions fueling our desperate need for the truth, we must figure out if who we were will destroy who we are.

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: WHO WE WERE by Melissa Collins is a contemporary, stand alone, MM, erotic romance story line focusing on Ryan Masterson , and Quinn Jacobs.

NOTE: WHO WE WERE contains scenes of MM sexual situations and may not be suitable for all readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Ryan and Quinn) WHO WE WERE follows several time lines focusing on the tempestuous relationship between Ryan Masterson, and Quinn Jacobs. As a thirteen year old boy Ryan Masterson found himself the target of bullies including his twin brother Patrick Masterson-all star athlete and the bane of Ryan’s existence. Throughout the years, Ryan would be friended by Quinn Jacobs, a young man who would jump to Ryan’s defence whenever and wherever possible. But Ryan’s home life spiralled out of control, targeted not only by his brother, but the fear of rejection by his demanding father, and it would be twelve years before Ryan would return Quinn’s life.What ensues is the rebuilding and rekindling, back and forth, relationship between Ryan and Quinn, and the continuing fall-out as Ryan struggles to move on from the past, and into the arms of the boy/man he has loved for most of his life.

At thirty years old, Ryan had yet to come out to his parents but coming out meant facing the possibility of rejection, all over again. Unable to move on from the abusive and controlling relationship of his brother, and the news that not all was it appeared to be, Ryan continues to battle between head and heart, especially as it involves Quinn Jacobs. Running was Ryan’s only option, running from what was, and what would never be. Quinn has never moved on from the loss of Ryan Masterson but Quinn was kept in the dark about Ryan’s past. Lost and struggling to forgive and forget, Quinn would come face to face with his past and his future but Ryan was unwilling to reveal the secrets that controlled every aspect of his life.

The relationship between Ryan and Quinn is tempestuous at best as Ryan struggles to find a place within his family, and within a world he knows nothing about. Twelve years would pass before Ryan and Quinn would rekindle a friendship destroyed by secrets and lies, a friendship that would turn into something more. The $ex scenes are passionate, provocative and intense.

The colourful secondary and supporting characters include Ryan’s brother Patrick, and his parents Marybeth and Stephen Masterson. We are introduced Quinn’s sister Sarah, and their parents Mr. and Mrs. Jacobs.

The world building focuses on the home life of Ryan Masterson-the volatile relationship between Ryan and Patrick, as well as between Ryan and his less than supportive parents. Quinn’s home life was in direct opposition to Ryan’s dysfunctional family situation, a situation that continued to haunt Ryan for most of his life. A lack of communication, compounded by secrets and lies, pushes Ryan to run on more than one occasion.

WHO WE WERE is a story of secrets and lies, family and friendship, forgiveness, acceptance and moving on. The premise is heart breaking, emotional and entertaining; the characters are dynamic, charismatic and colourful; the romance struggles in the face of Ryan’s inability to let go of the past.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Melissa Collins has always been a book worm. Studying Literature in college ensured that her nose was always stuck in a book. She followed her passion for reading to the most logical career choice: English teacher. Her hope was to share her passion for reading and the escapism of books to her students. Having spent more than a decade in front of a classroom, she can easily say that it’s been a dream.

Her passion for writing didn’t start until more recently. When she was home on maternity leave in early 2012, she read her first romance novel and her head filled with the passion, angst and laughter of the characters who she read about it. It wasn’t long before characters of her own took shape in her mind. Their lives took over Melissa’s brain and The Love Series was born.

NOTE: The Reading Cafe is NOT responsible for the Facebook Giveaway. If you have any questions, please contact the author on Facebook

FACEBOOK GIVEAWAY:
https://www.facebook.com/MelissaCollins.Author/posts/1792493497523438

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Eagle (Linear Tactical #2) by Janie Crouch-a review

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EAGLE (Linear Tactical #2) by Janie Crouch-a review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK : Release Date October 30, 2018

He’s fighting for what’s right.
She’s fighting just to survive…

When former Special Forces soldier Finn Bollinger is asked to help with a deadly government mission, he’s up for the task. His job teaching survival skills to civilians at Linear Tactical keeps him sharp, and he can still handle himself in the field.

But the Army damn well didn’t teach Finn how to handle Charlotte Devereux. She’s back and she’s all sorts of bad news.

Charlotte can’t change the past. Can’t change the choices she made or the fact that they cost her everything. All she can do is endure the fallout. Even if that means putting her future in the hands of Finn, the man who has every right to want to destroy her.

And can in so many more ways than he thinks.

When the undercover mission goes impossibly wrong, they’ll all have to depend on Charlotte’s strength in order to survive. But everyone has a breaking point

••••••••••

REVIEW: EAGLE is the second instalment in Janie Crouch’s contemporary, adult LINEAR TACTICAL erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on a group of former Special Forces soldiers who own and operate Linear Tactical, an Oak Creek, Wyoming business focusing on survival skills, security and protection. This is Special Forces Green Beret / single father Finn ‘Eagle’ Bollinger, and special education teacher Charlotte ‘Charlie’ Devereux’s story line. EAGLE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. Some of the events in EAGLE run parallel to and cross over with the events of book one-CYCLONE.

NOTE: Contains scenes graphic scenes of violence and may not be suitable for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Charlie and Finn) EAGLE follows the second chance romance between Special Forces Green Beret / single father Finn ‘Eagle’ Bollinger, and special education teacher Charlotte ‘Charlie’ Devereux. Eight years earlier Finn Bollinger’s life imploded when the woman he loved married another man, shattering his heart and any chance for a happily ever after. Fast forward to present day Finn, now a single father to young boy struggling with learning disabilities comes face to face with his past in the form of his son’s special education teacher Charlotte Devereux. Betrayal and hatred hang heavy between our leading couple until Finn is forced to accept that Charlie is his son Evan’s best chance at reading success. What ensues is the rebuilding and rekindling romance between Charlie and Finn, and the fall-out as Charlie is targeted when she is witness to a secret meeting of some very powerful men at a bar known as The Lion’s Den.

Charlotte Devereux has never stopped loving Finn Bollinger but life has changed drastically for the former ‘princess’ of Oak Creek, Wyoming. Secrets, lies and a struggle to survive force Charlotte to hide in plain sight until Finn uncovers the truth about Charlotte’s current living situation and life. Finn Bollinger’s hatred for Charlotte continued to grow but seeing his former lover pushed all thoughts of retribution aside when he discovers that not all is as it appears to be. Working three jobs to keep her head above the proverbial water Charlotte will find herself unable to move forward without revealing the past.

The relationship between Charlotte and Finn is one of second chances; a rekindling romance between two people whose lives were destroyed by secrets and lies. Finn’s spiral out of control would come back with a vengeance forcing our hero to step up and take responsibility when he least expected. Charlotte never expected to return to Oak Creek, Wyoming but circumstances forced our heroine into a lifestyle she knew nothing about. Trapped between head and heart, Charlotte’s attraction to Finn had never waivered in the face of her own betrayal and lies. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

The colorful secondary and supporting characters include Finn’s seven year old son Evan, his best friend Jess and her mother Peyton ; Zac Mackay and Annie (Cyclone #1); Linear Tactical warriors Aiden Teague, Henry Nicholson, Dorian Lindstrom and UA Major Mark Pinnnock; Finn’s sister and local waitress Waverly ‘Wavy’ Bollinger, Sheriffs Curtis Nelson, as well as Finn’s mother and bar waitress Jordan Reiss. The requisite evil has many faces.

EAGLE is a fast paced, action packed story of romance and suspense. The premise is intriguing and entertaining; the romance is passionate and seductive; the characters are charismatic, determined and strong. Janie Crouch pulls the reader into a raw and dynamic tale of second chances, betrayal and fate.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one-CYCLONE

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Escaping Solitude (Escape Trilogy #2) by Sara Dobie Bauer-a review

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Escaping Solitude (Escape Trilogy #2) by Sara Dobie Bauer-a review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: RELEASE DATE October 29,2018

Ancient vampire Andrew escaped his tropical island exile with his beloved human sailor, Edmund. They’ve now returned to Andrew’s home in nineteenth-century New Orleans and must navigate not only their developing relationship—and equally haunted pasts—but also a hungry coven of vampires Andrew used to call friends.

Desperate to stay by Andrew’s side forever, Edmund examines the impressive coven library in search of an Elder, the only creature capable of turning Edmund. Although missing for centuries, Andrew believes an Elder must still survive somewhere; they just have to find him.

The search is put on hold when Edmund receives word that his mother is ill in London, and the lovers set off on an oceanic journey surrounded by new friends and old enemies. When things go terribly wrong, Edmund’s fragile human life hangs in the balance, and an Elder must be found or Andrew will be alone forever.

•••••••••

REVIEW: ESCAPING SOLITUDE is the second instalment in Sara Dobie Bauer’s historical ESCAPE paranormal, MM, erotic romance trilogy focusing on formerly exiled vampire Andrew, and twenty-eight year old, British naturalist Edmund. ESCAPING SOLITUDE should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up immediately following the events of book one-Escaping Exile.

NOTE: ESCAPING EXILE contains M/M and M/M/M/ sexual situations that may not be suitable for all readers.

Told from first person point of view (Andrew) ESCAPING SOLITUDE follows Andrew and Edmund as they begin their life together in Andrew’s hometown of New Orleans, Louisiana. No longer in exile Andrew is welcomed backed with open arms but Edmund’s presence is like a beacon to other vampires including Felipe, the consort to the vampire who sent Andrew into exile. Enamored with Michelle’s library of vampire lore, Edmund discovers the existence and whereabouts of an Elder vampire, a vampire with the ability to give Edmund a chance at forever with the man that he loves. What ensues is the growing relationship and love between Edmund and Andrew, and the potential fall-out as an accident threatens to end Edmunds life.

ESCAPING SOLITUDE is another quick and easy read; an erotic romance between vampire and human, with the possibility of a happily ever after. We are introduced to female vampire Michelle, and her consort Felipe, as well as the local boy-toys Gabriel and Danys, and their Irish madam May.

The world building continues to focus on Andrew and Edmund’s building relationship, their time together revealing a manic and inquisitive side of Andrew’s human lover, as well as the search for a vampire Elder. The premise is engaging; the romance is passionate and erotic without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text; the characters are colorful and charismatic. ESCAPING SOLITUDE ends on a cliff-hanger-you have been warned.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one ESCAPING EXILE

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Haunted Be the Holidays ( A Krewe of Hunters/ 1001 Dark Nights) by Heather Graham-Review & Excerpt Tour

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Haunted Be the Holidays (A Krewe of Hunters / 1001 Dark Nights) by Heather Graham-Review & Excerpt Tour

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 30, 2018

When you’re looking for the victim of a mysterious murder in a theater, there is nothing like calling on a dead diva for help! Krewe members must find the victim if they’re to discover the identity of a murderer at large, one more than willing to kill the performers when he doesn’t like the show.

It’s Halloween at the Global Tower Theatre, a fantastic and historic theater owned by Adam Harrison and run by spouses of Krewe members. During a special performance, a strange actor makes an appearance in the middle of the show, warning of dire events if his murder is not solved before another holiday rolls around.

Dakota McCoy and Brodie McFadden dive into the mystery. Both have a
special talent for dealing with ghosts, but this one is proving elusive. With the help of Brodie’s diva mother and his ever-patient father – who were killed together when a stage chandelier fell upon them – Dakota and Brodie set out to solve the case.

If they can’t solve the murder quickly, there will be no Thanksgiving for the Krewe .

•••••••••

REVIEW: This is part of a series, and I must admit I’ve not read the previous books. So I went on Heather Graham’s website to get a little back ground …..

Secrets, ghosts and witchcraft! Join the Krewe of Hunters, an elite FBI unit of paranormal investigators, as they delve into the past to right the wrongs of the present.

Echoes of evil is the book that Dakota and Brodie meet, so this an extra. And reading we do catch up on previous couples (who I don’t know about !!)

But after catching us up, the action is practically nonstop.

My feeling is that you really need to read Echos of Evil, this feels like a snippet of their lives, and I like to know more.

But saying that, it’s a good read. Fast paced and full of action. It’s fun to see how they all interact with ghosts (it’s an everyday occurrence, so no one gets scared) a few twists that had you rereading to make sure you haven’t missed anything out ?

Very well written and thought out. All the characters were likeable and made me want to go back and read the series.

Reading Brodie interacting with his “dead” parents was interesting, and the interaction between Brodie and Dakota was great. And smut was kept to a minimum, story did focus a little too much on facts, and it did read like a history book, but it’s still an enjoyable read.

It’s a short mystery short, full of content, a few twists. And a really fun read.

Copy supplied for review

? Reviewed by Julie B

 

Nearing the theater, she paused, surprised to discover she was…
Looking for ghosts.
Well, there certainly weren’t any to be seen. What she did see was more children—scores of children. Big ones, little ones—all out for candy. It was Halloween, after all. They were in costumes. Moms and dads or uncles, aunts, cousins, or friends walked with them, sometimes in costume, and sometimes not.
No other little munchkins ran up to her for treats, but they were an entertaining sight.
Yep, it was Halloween.
Kody loved costumes—maybe it was part of loving the theater.
And that was why she immediately noticed the death’s head costume.
It was eerily similar to the one that had been designed for their play.
The costume’s mask resembled a death’s head on a seventeenth-century tombstone. The mouth gaped open, and the figure was wearing—as all evil characters seemed to sport—a black cape and hood.
The “death’s head” character spun around on the street, delighting kids as they scurried away.
It did a little dance on the sidewalk right in front of Kody, and the performance was a good one—the costume wearer could dance. He or she was doing a big à la Michael Jackson number, well timed and compelling, even with the cape on.
Only a Fedora was needed to make it complete.
Kody hadn’t realized she had paused to watch—until the end of the performance.
Then the character—with its gaping-mouth death’s head mask—came to a stop. People on the street started to applaud. Kody did the same.
Then it turned to her, slowly, theatrically, as if knowing she—specifically—was there.
It bowed deeply, rose, looked at her a long moment, and then walked off into the crowd.
Kody gave herself a serious mental shake as a wave of coldness ran through her body. She wasn’t easily frightened, and she didn’t know what it was about the performance that had disturbed her. Everyone around her was clapping. And it was Halloween. It was ridiculous to be afraid of a costumed performer on Halloween.
Except, of course, tonight she was in a show featuring a very similar figure. An evil being out to kidnap and kill her character.
Was that it?
Enough. Her children’s theater’s last production of the Halloween show was coming up, and all the costumed characters were filled with fun and made children laugh.
Her own performance in the night’s production would follow quickly. She needed to move. Forget the strange dance she had just seen—better yet, appreciate it for what it had been, a charming dance by an adult who loved Halloween and wanted to entertain those on the street.
She hurried on toward the theater.
But the strange chill that had invaded her remained. 


 

HEATHER GRAHAM is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than two hundred novels and novellas.   She has been honored with awards from booksellers and writers’ organizations for excellence in her work, and she is also proud to be a recipient of the Silver Bullet from Thriller Writers and was also awarded the prestigious Thriller Master in 2016. 

​She is also a recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from RWA.  Heather has had books selected for the Doubleday Book Club and the Literary Guild, and has been quoted, interviewed, or featured in such publications as The Nation, Redbook, Mystery Book Club, People and USA Today and appeared on many newscasts including Today, Entertainment Tonight and local television.

FOLLOW: Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter /

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First Kiss of Freedom (Whitemoon Warriors #1) by Nichole Wolfe-Review & Guest Post

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FIRST KISS OF FREEDOM (Whitemoon Warriors #1) by Nichole Wolfe-Review & Guest Post

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 30, 2018

Centuries of waiting…..

For four hundred years, Charlie Matthews has waited for his revenge, becoming the very creature he seeks to destroy. When he finally returns to his Maker’s mansion, he knows the time is close. And only one thing stands between what he wants, and what he never knew he needed.

Leads to a single moment…

On Nessie Robinson’s eighteenth birthday, she gets an unexpected surprise.
Her ex-best friend. Emphasis on “ex.” Since he left ten years ago, she’s had to deal with the overbearing power of their Master.
With his return comes tragedy, and feelings she doesn’t want to face. But every moment makes them harder to ignore.

That changes everything ….

With one bite, Charlie and Nessie are forced to run for their lives. Leaving behind everything they’ve known, fighting for survival, freedom, and a chance at a future neither of them ever imagined.

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: Haven’t read a vampire story in a while ?

In this book, not all vampires are nice, in fact after the humans find out about the vampires, things went from bad to worse, many became “blood slaves” no better off than cattle, used and abused with no thought to how they’d feel to be an unwilling donor.

Vanessa is such a human, a child when she first became a donor, now a young woman, she loathes and despises them, their cruelty when taking blood, and using them as house slaves as well.

She thought she had a friend for life in Charlie, but he left her and never looked back. She yearns to escape, but knows that’s an impossibility.

Charlie hates his master with a passion, his master is a cruel and violent vampire.

Charlie has watched as humans are turned into cattle and slaves, and now the vampire council are deciding on wether to let his master expand his slave trade. It needs to stop, and Charlie thinks he is strong enough to do it. And returning to the “home” he once knew fills him with dread, but he knows this may be his best shot.

Coming home has a few surprises for Charlie, one being the little girl who lightened his heart and made him want to be a better supernatural.

“Nessie” was an endearing soul, and always knew how to make him smile, but their first meeting didn’t go as planned, and the look in her eyes wasn’t joy, it was hatred.

Their relationship is slow in returning, but once it does, then both Charlie and Nessie have life changing decisions to make.

It was a very well written book, and the author described this new world in all its technicolour glory.

Do Charlie and Nessie get to make a life for themselves? And what about the master ? And will the council let them live ?

Copy supplied for review

? Julie B

How to Make a Monster Readers Will Swoon Over

A Halloween Guest Post to Sink Your Teeth Into

In the world of Paranormal Romance, monsters are everywhere.  And can be just about anyone. Main character. Love interest.  Villain. Side characters. It’s what readers not-so-secretly crave.  Because, let’s face it, we get to interact with humans every day. Whether or not we want to.  But with this beloved genre, we get to meet characters we could only dream about (or read about, in this case.)  But, be careful how far out you go with your creepy creatures because no one wants to make out with The Blob (even if it’s imaginary).  The trick is getting the right blend of man and monster.

Take a quick glance at some popular titles.  I’m sure it won’t take long for you to notice that all those heroes and heroines have one important thing in common.  They look mostly human.  Sure, they might have green skin, but they probably also have a six-pack.  While it’s true that readers don’t want your average Joe, they still require some sense of familiarity to really connect with your characters.  Limit yourself to three deviations from the human form.  Examples could be 1.) Green skin; 2.) Webbed fingers; 3.) Sticky tongue OR 1.) Blue fur; 2.) Pointy ears; 3.) Fangs

Not only should your characters be humanoid, they should act human, as well.  This is especially important because without some sense of human emotions, your characters will feel stale and blank to the readers.  And we all know that’s not good. Besides, how will readers fall in love with your characters if it’s obvious they aren’t even capable of love themselves?  So, even if you want your character to seem emotionless and unfeeling for whatever reason, their thoughts or actions should demonstrate that they’re not as cold as other characters think them to be.  

Think about people you’ve come across in your own life that you didn’t particularly like.  What about their personality made you dislike them? Give that personality trait to your character and voila!  They have a flaw to overcome! At minimum, your character should have two dominant emotional responses.  In many cases, these could be part of your character’s personality flaws.  Perhaps they’re a hothead that refuses to trust anyone. Or maybe they’re judgmental and arrogant.  Maybe they’re a Type-A people pleaser that doesn’t know how to relax. Because that won’t cause any problems in your plot, I’m sure…

Another important thing to consider is making sure your monster isn’t invincible.  Figuring out your character’s weaknesses or limitations are just as important as their strengths.  Try to connect their strengths and weaknesses to their origin (or their species’ origin) to help make them more believable.  It’s important to ask a lot of why questions. Why do they fly on a broom? Why do they hate black cats? Why does eating pumpkin pie turn them into the Orange Hulk?  

Keep in mind that the more unique your monster, the more explanation the readers will require.  Some monsters are so well-known these days, they need little explanation (vampires, shifters, demons, etc.).  But even if you choose to use these, giving them a unique origin or special quirk could set your vampires or shifters apart from the horde of others.

So, now that you know the basics of how to build a swoon-worthy monster, here is a little cheatsheet for you.  Just in case you forget. It happens to the best of us. No worries.

The HOW TO MAKE A MONSTER Cheatsheet

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Nichole Wolfe lives in a small, one-traffic-light town in Pennsylvania with her childhood sweetheart and their two children.  Her slight obsession with all things paranormal and fantastical may have snuck its way into her tales of love conquering all.  When not reading or writing heart-throbbing, fog-up-the-mirror stories, she enjoys other creative outlets.  Scrapbooking her many amateur photos and making thrifty home decor with her many, many emptied wine bottles are some of her favorite go-to hobbies.

 

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The Corner of Holly and Ivy (Harmony Harbor #7) by Debbie Mason-Review and Giveaway

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The Corner of Holly and Ivy (Harmony Harbor #7) by Debbie Mason-Review and Giveaway


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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 30, 2018

Sometimes love is just around the corner . . .

With her dreams of being a wedding dress designer suddenly over, Arianna Bell isn’t expecting a holly jolly Christmas. Instead, her heart feels about three sizes too small. That is until her high school sweetheart Connor Gallagher returns to town and she finds his mere presence still makes her pulse race. But just when she starts dreaming of kissing under the mistletoe, he announces that he will be her opponent in the upcoming mayoral race….

Hot-shot attorney Connor Gallagher has something to prove. He’s tired of playing runner-up to his high-achieving brothers. So when the opportunity to enter the campaign comes up, he takes it. Even if it means running against the only woman he’s ever loved. But with a little help from Harmony Harbor’s local matchmakers and a lot of holiday cheer, Connor and Arianna may just get the happy ever after they both deserve.

•••••••••••

REVIEW. Arianna is at her grandmothers house, recovering from a near fatal accident that has left her permanently scarred and unable to work in the job that she loved. All she wants to do is hide away, feel sorry for herself and be left alone. Conner was Arianna’s high school sweetheart and he realizes that she is the woman he has always loved and is ready to jump at the chance to rekindle their relationship. Toss in a meddling Grandmother and a “ghostly” great-Grandmother and you have a romantically funny Christmas love story.

This was a delightful Christmas read. The characters were intriguing with just the right blend of serious and funny to keep me interested. This is my very first Debbie Mason book and she’s a very talented writer. The Corner of Holly and Ivy was written with the right mix of loveable characters, family drama and suspense to lead up to the happy ending we all want in a feel good Christmas novel.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Tricia F.

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Debbie Mason is the USA Today bestselling author of the Christmas, Colorado series and Harmony Harbor series. Her books have been praised for their “likable characters, clever dialogue, and juicy plots” (RT Book Reviews). She also writes historical paranormals as Debbie Mazzuca. Her MacLeod series has received several nominations for best paranormal as well as a Holt Medallion Award of Merit. When she isn’t writing or reading, Debbie enjoys spending time with her very own real-life hero, three wonderful children and son-in-law, two adorable grandbabies, and a yappy Yorkie named Bella.

Debbie’s publisher is graciously offering a paper copy of THE CORNER OF HOLLY AND IVY to two (2) lucky commenters at The Reading Cafe.

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10. Giveaway runs from November 2-7, 2018

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Pit Stop: Baby (Dirty DILFs #4) by Taryn Quinn-a review

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PIT STOP: BABY (Dirty DILFs #4) by Taryn Quinn (Cari Quinn / Taryn Elliott)-a review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 1, 2018

We had the hottest hookup ever. And now, she’s having my baby.

I’m a carefree single guy.

A successful race car driver who enjoys hitting the track—hard.

I don’t do commitments.

Hell, I rarely even do repeats.

Until I spent the night with a gorgeous, funny woman who rocked my world.

No names. No identifying details. Just lots and lots of pleasure.

Until we meet up again at my older brother’s wedding. And guess what, she’s my brand new sister-in-law, Rylee Ford.

And apparently, now she hates me.

Oh, and she’s also pregnant. Surprise, I’m the daddy.

I’m so screwed.

••••••••••

REVIEW: PIT STOP: BABY is the fourth instalment in Taryn Quinn’s (Cari Quinn / Taryn Elliott) contemporary, adult DIRTY DILFS erotic, romance series. This is retired NASCAR driver Gage Kramer, and Rylee Ford’s story line. PIT STOP: BABY can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Gage and Rylee were first introduced in book three WHO’S THE DADDY.

Told from dual first person perspectives ( Gage and Rylee) PIT STOP: BABY follows the building relationship between twenty six year old Rylee Ford, and retired NASCAR driver Gage Kramer. Three months earlier Gage and Rylee had a one night stand before discovering that each others siblings were to be married the next day. Fast forward to present day wherein Gage returns to his home town in search of his future only to discover his one –night stand from months before. Enter Rylee Ford, struggling to find a place in the world, and the woman with whom Gage would fall in love. What ensues is the building relationship and romance between Rylee and Gage, and the announcement of another Ford-Kramer baby, on the way.

After making a scene at their sibling’s wedding three months earlier, Rylee and Gage were on the outs with their respective kin. Issues of trust and a lack of communication, hurt feelings and jealousy are plenty to over come but adding a pregnancy into the emotion-fueled sibling rivalry makes for many uncomfortable moments for everyone concerned.

The relationship between Rylee and Gage is a ‘second chance’ of a sorts; a one-night stand that turns into something more including the announcement of an unplanned pregnancy. Gage is determined to win Rylee’s heart but our heroine struggles with more personal issues that Rylee fears will push Gage out of her life. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

The colorful secondary and supporting character include Rylee’s sister Kelsey, and Gage’s brother Dare (Who’s The Daddy #3), real estate entrepreneur Oliver Hamilton and his wife Sage (Claim My Baby #2), as well as café owner Macy Devereaux, baker Vee, café customer Murphy ‘Moose’ Masterson; Gage’s friend Tish Burns, as well as Mr. and Mrs. Kramer. Moose and Vee’s story line is next in BABY DADDY WANTED.

The world building continues to focus on the ‘unplanned’ and ‘unexpected’ pregnancies in the tight knit group of family and friends. The conflict is limited to Rylee’s embarrassment of what was, and her ongoing personal issues at home.

PIT STOP: BABY is a story of family and friendship; second chances and falling in love. The premise is heartwarming ; the characters are sassy but tender; the romance is captivating and hot. PIT STOP: BABY is a fun, energetic and enjoyable instalment in the authors’ Dirty DILF’s romance series.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Have My Baby
Claim My Baby
Who’sThe Daddy

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Dangerous Exes (Liars, Inc) by Rachel Van Dyken-Review & Giveaway

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DANGEROUS EXES (Liars,Inc #2) by Rachel Van Dyken-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

 

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

ABOUT THE BOOK : Release Date October 30,2018

Isla made one teeny little mistake. Now she and her PI company, Dirty Exes, are being targeted by one seriously angry and furiously sexy ex-quarterback. Jessie freakin’ Beckett. But there’s no way some NFL superhunk is going to take her business away. If only he didn’t make her so hot—and bothered.

Jessie wants payback for a ruined reputation. His plan? Top secret. His hard-to-hide arousal for Isla? Not so much. Especially when they let down their guards and sneak a kiss. Like any juicy scandal, it goes so viral, so fast, that only a good lie can combat the bad press. Mortal enemies in a fling? No way. Um…this is love!

Actually…could it be?

Isla’s not faking it. Jessie can’t. As the game of let’s pretend gets real, Jessie forgets all about revenge. That’s the problem. His plan is already out of his control. Now it could undo everything they’ve been trying to build. Coming clean may be the only thing that can save it.

•••••

REVIEW: DANGEROUS EXES is the second instalment in Rachel Van Dyken’s contemporary, adult LIARS, INC erotic, romance series focusing on the owners of the PI company Dirty Exes tasked with exposing cheating husbands and wives. This is co-owner Isla Turner, and NFL quarterback Jessie Beckett’s story line. DANGEROUS EXES can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading book one- DIRTY EXES-for back story and cohesion where we are first introduced to Jessie Beckett, and his story begins.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Jessie and Isla) DANGEROUS EXES follows the acrimonious relationship between Isla Turner, and NFL quarterback Jessie Beckett. In book one-Dirty Exes-Jessie became the target of Dirty Exes PI, when his wife hired the PI firm to set up our hero in the hopes of trapping Jessie in a compromising position. With his career, personal life and reputation shattered, Jessie Beckett is seeking revenge against Dirty Exes, revenge that will cost him more than he could have imagined. What ensues is the building but tempestuous enemies to lovers relationship between Jessie and Isla, and the potential fall-out as Jessie is unable to stop the forward momentum of the plans set into motion, plans of which he no longer has control; plans that are about to destroy the woman he loves.

Jessie Beckett was framed and set up by his ex-wife and Dirty Exes. Taking matters into his own hand, Jessie sets into motion a well-orchestrated plan to take down and ruin Dirty Exes, but falling in love with Isla Turner was never on the agenda. Isla Turner had no idea the repercussion of their PI investigation would destroy an innocent man but proving otherwise finds Isla in a fake relationship with the man in question, in order to further prevent more ongoing damage.

The relationship between Jessie and Isla is acrimonious at best. Jessie blames Dirty Exes for the destruction of his personal and private life including the loss of sponsorship, and the lies that continue to perpetuate and grow. Isla struggles in the face of her attraction to Jessie but our heroine is going to have to put on her ‘big girl panties’ in an effort to put a positive spin on their continuing battle. The $ex scenes are seductive, passionate and intense, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

The colorful secondary and supporting characters include the return of Isla’s business partner Blaire, and Jessie’s best friend Colin Buchanon (Dirty Exes #1) ; Jessie’s ex wife Vanessa, and Isla’s ex-fiance, up and coming Hollywood director Wayne Alvillar; and Isla’s hilarious grandmother Goo-Poh.

The world building focuses on the turbulent relationship and subsequent ‘fake fiance’ fiasco between Jessie and Isla. A little darker than book one –Dirty Exes- there is plenty of back and forth, deep seething hatred between our leading couple-hatred masked by the palpable sexual attraction that is hard to ignore.

DANGEROUS EXES is a story of betrayal, revenge, secrets and lies. The premise is entertaining, engaging and engrossing; the characters are feisty, sassy and spirited; the romance is edgy and intimate. DANGEROUS EXES is an energetic look at second chances, of a sort, for two people betrayed by love and broken hearts.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one -DIRTY EXES

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

 

I plucked off my sunglasses and approached the small brown table. “Yes, I have lunch reservations under Isla Turner.”She beamed up at me through black spectacles and a toothy smile. “Right this way, Mrs. Turner.”

“Oh, it’s Miss.” I tucked my hair behind my ear. “Actually.”

I got Mrs. a lot.

I told myself it was because I looked classy—not old.

Single.

Unattached.

I glared into my water glass. “Could I get some extra lemons, please?”

“Absolutely.” She handed me a menu. “Your waiter will be arriving momentarily.”

“Thank you.” I glanced back to my pristine menu and tapped my fingernails against the table, a bit irritated my new client was late.

A shadowy figure appeared near my right, I glanced up and choked on the sip of water I’d just taken as Jessie Beckett plopped down in the seat opposite me.

“Okay, you’re seriously taking your stalking to the next level.” I gritted my teeth and pasted a fake smile on my face as people started whispering and staring. Great, just great. The last thing I needed was more attention, especially since my client had requested a semi low profile.

Then again, why The Ivy?

I shook my fuddled head just as the waiter approached. “Would you two like some more time?”

“He’s not staying,” I hissed.

Jessie just grinned that cocky grin and looked smugly up at the waiter. “I’d love to see the wine list.”

“Sweet cheese and crackers,” I muttered under my breath. “He doesn’t need the wine list, because he’s not staying.”

The waiter looked between us in confusion.

“Don’t mind her, she’s just hangry.” Jessie nodded. “Wine list, and let’s start with two Caesar salads and some calamari.”

“I’m allergic to calamari,” I lied.

“Extra calamari.” Jessie winked at the waiter.

“Alright … then.” The waiter slid a wine list onto the table and walked off.

“Go away!” I leaned in and jerked the wine list from Jessie’s hands. “You’ve already done enough damage, my client should be here any minute!”

“Oh, he’s here.” Jessie blinked innocently. “Sitting across from you, gazing into your venomous eyes and trying to wonder how your brand of manipulation got my ex to burst into tears with your lies. Don’t people like you recognize each other?”

I took a soothing breath and reminded myself that murder would land me in prison, even if it was justified, the bastard. “You tricked our secretary into booking an appointment with me? Why?”

“I didn’t have to trick her.” He shrugged his muscled shoulders. “I just told her I was a potential client and willing to pay out the ass if I could have an appointment with you.”

I scowled. “You’re paying for lunch.”

“A gentleman always does,” he said, confusing me further.

His light eyes twinkled a bit before he shut down whatever he was thinking. “You’re a menace to society.”

I let out a breath and leaned back against my seat as a headache pulsed between my eyes. “And you’re like a dog with a bone. We don’t do anything illegal and this isn’t going to make you feel better. Shutting down my business may seem like the solution, but think of all the other things you could do with your time!”

“Shutting down your business,” he said calmly, “shows the press that I was caught in a bad situation, it tells the charity that I was wrongfully fired, and hopefully proves I was wronged. At least the media gets to feel sorry for me—I can find a way to get back on top.”

Anger burned through my chest, making it hard to swallow. “It’s all the same with you power-hungry celebrities, isn’t it? If life isn’t perfect. If you aren’t on top, if the cereal isn’t perfectly alphabetized just in case someone takes a picture of your freaking pantry and sends it to TMZ for the world to see what a OCD freak you are!”

He growled low in his throat, his teeth snapped together. “That has nothing to do with this.”

“It has everything to do with this,” I said softly. “You want something back, something you think has been wrongfully taken from you, by me, but I think if you look at the facts you’ll see that being on top only means on thing—”

“Oh yeah?” he snarled. “What’s that, Isla?”

“There’s always farther to fall when you aren’t the golden boy anymore,” I said softly, reaching out and touching his hand on instinct, because it’s what I did in my sessions with clients, because it’s what I did when I put my heart into things I had no business putting my heart into.

He stared at our touching hands as a tether of awareness slithered through my fingers like he’d just caressed me.

 

 

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Rachel Van Dyken is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author of regency and contemporary romances. When she’s not writing you can find her drinking coffee at Starbucks and plotting her next book while watching The Bachelor.

She keeps her home in Idaho with her Husband, adorable son, and two snoring boxers! She loves to hear from readers!

 

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