Possession (Perversion trilogy #2) by T.M. Frazier-Review & Excerpt Tour

POSSESSION (Perversion #2) by T.M. Frazier -Review & Excerpt Tour

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 13, 2018

War is coming.
We’ve come so far.
We’ll have to fight for what we have.
Or die trying.

••••••••

REVIEW: POSSESSION is the second instalment in TM Frazier’s contemporary, adult PERVERSION dark romance trilogy focusing on on seventeen-year old Emma Jean ‘Tricks’ Parish, and twenty-one year old Tristan ‘Grim’ Paine, both products of a failed and compromised foster case system. Although the lead characters are 17 and 21, POSSESSION (and the Perversion Trilogy) should not be considered a YA or NA story line due to the extreme violence and sexual content. POSSESSION should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up immediately after the events and cliff hanger of book one-PERVERSION.

WARNING: POSSESSION is a dark romance with graphic scenes of rape and sexual assault, F/F situations, and other triggers that may not be suitable for more sensitive readers.

NOTE: If you have not read book one -PERVERSION- there may be some spoilers in my review.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Tricks and Grim) using present day and memories from the past,  POSSESSION follows in the aftermath of events wherein Grim discovers that the young woman he loves has been a virtual prisoner of the local Los Muertos gang, and a woman who is currently missing and held captive by the aforementioned gang. Hoping to rescue Tricks, Grim sets a plan into motion that will, quite possibly, trigger a war between Grim’s Bedlam Brotherhood, the Los Muertos gang, and the Irish Mob in Lacking, Florida. As Tricks’ emotional, mental and physical stability are shattered and broken, Grim must face down the man that destroyed her life, and deal with the local police who may or may not be working the wrong side of the law.

POSSESSION, like Perversion, is a raw, real, dark and gritty, in your face story of betrayal, vengeance, and lawlessness with graphic scenes of sexual abuse, rape, torture and assault. POSSESSION pushes the envelope of dark and dangerous. There is nothing pretty about life in the gangs; no hearts and flowers; freedom is fleeting; peace is non-existent. Everyone is targeted; no one is safe; life is but a momentary blip on the radar. TM Frazier pulls the reader into a world where trust must be earned; betrayal is punished; death is only a fact of life. An impassioned and heartbreaking tale about two people destroyed by the system, whose lives continue to spiral out of control.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one-PERVERSION.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

 

Bethany nods to the box, again pressing her finger to her lips. “We will know more when you’re assigned a judge. Until then, we will just have to wait,” she says loudly. She points with her eyes to the item in my hand, then leaves.
The object I’m holding is a rock with a piece of paper attached to it by a rubber band. I pull the paper free and flip it over. It’s a note.
Stay by the glass, motherfucker! Whatever you do, don’t turn around. PS-You look nice today. Prison blue suits you.
The one-piece scratchy uniform I’m wearing is bright orange. What the fuck is all this about?
I peer out from my cell. There’s no one in the room now. Not even the janitor. The security camera high in the corner across from my cell, the one that’s usually pointed directly at me, is now facing down toward the floor.
Whatever you do, don’t turn around. Okay, so I won’t turn around completely, but curiosity leads me to risk a glance over my shoulder. It’s just a wall. An empty blank wall. BOOM. BOOOOOM!
An empty blank wall…that just exploded.
The sound resonates through my eardrums. I duck and cover my head with my hands as pieces of cement rain down into the cell. Dust coats my hair and the back of my neck. After a few beats, I stand, waving away the plumes of the aftermath.
Through the debris, I can just barely make out headlights. It’s a truck with a battering bar attached to the hood.
“All aboard! This train is leaving the motherfucking station. Literally!” shouts a voice. I can’t see who it is through the windshield which is shrouded in what remains of my cell. I don’t have time to ask any questions of the mystery voice.
There’s no time to question anything.
The passenger door flies open. Two officers appear behind me. One fumbles with the cell keys while the other shouts at him to move faster.
It won’t be fast enough.
I leap into the truck and slam the door. The tires spin in place for a few seconds until they finally grip the concrete. My head hits the headliner as we reverse over the broken bricks until we’re clear of them and are able to make forward motion. It isn’t until we’re through the field and on the road when I finally get a good look of my getaway driver.
“Preppy?” I ask. “What the fuck are you doing here?”
Preppy may not be part of any official organization, but he runs a tight ship over in Logan’s Beach. Belly and I have worked with him and his friend King a few times in the past. I haven’t seen Preppy since before he was thought to be dead only to later be rescued from an underground cave where he was held captive for the better part of a year.
“Grim? Fuck, I thought I was rescuing Bear. Get the fuck out,” he teases. “Just kidding. If Bear was locked up I wouldn’t help him escape. That fucker could use some ‘me time’ to contemplate his grumpy nature.”
He holds the wheel with one hand and straightens his signature bowtie with the other. His white dress shirt is rolled up to his elbows revealing arms heavily covered with both tattoos and angry jagged scars.
He lights a joint and tugs on the wheel, making a sharp turn off the road into a dark heavily wooded area. When we’ve made it in far enough to be fully camouflaged by trees and brush, Preppy kills the engine.
He passes me the joint, and I take a much-needed hit, holding the smoke for as long as I can before slowly exhaling.
“Thanks, man. How the fuck did you get sucked into this?”
Preppy types out a text on his phone, then sets it back in the console. “Bethany. I owed her a favor. She got my boy, Bo, out of some trouble recently.”
“Isn’t your kid like ten now?” I ask. “What kind of trouble can a ten-year-old get into that needs Bethany’s kind of help?”
“He’s eight,” Preppy corrects. “And my boy catches the kind of trouble most kids his age don’t know is out there to catch. My girls are easier. Twin toddlers. Miley and Taylor. The three of them, along with their mama, are the loves of my fucked-up life. Bo’s a good kid. He’s just…well, his brain arrow doesn’t exactly shoot straight. Its target is usually more…”
Preppy shapes his hand like an arrow aimed at the windshield, then changes the aim to me.
“Human.” He drops his hand. “And the incident in question wasn’t that bad. It may or may not have had something to do with the unfortunate disappearance of a certain…”
He waves the rest of his sentence away like there’s a gnat flying around his head.
“Let’s just say he’s grounded. VERY grounded. For life. Or like a week. Minimum a few days. Or a day. Maybe, an hour or two. Poor kid. Maybe, I’ll just take him to the movies.” He sighs. “You’ll see. Wait until you’ve got some sex trophies of your own. You’ll understand.”
Kids. I’ve never thought of myself with a kid before. I picture Tricks holding a baby in her arms. Our baby. Much to my surprise, I don’t fucking hate it. Although, the thought isn’t helpful to my current situation and only makes me more impatient and enraged.
One thing at a fucking time.
Sirens wail through the night. Preppy remains cool and calm like he’s driving a parade float down main street, and not at all like he’s running from the law with a fugitive.
Blue and red flashes light up the woods. After a few seconds, the vehicles pass, and both the lights and sirens fade off into the distance. “That’s our bat signal. Let’s get you the fuck outta here so I can get home to the missus and eat her cookies.” Preppy pauses, probably realizing his odd choice of words. “I do actually mean cookies. Dre makes a mean batch of chocolate chip.”
I stare silently out at the passing trees.
“I’m going to eat her pussy, too. You know, after the other kind of cookies. Just so we’re clear.”
“Thanks, man. We’re clear. And if you ever need anything and I’m not dead or serving time, I’m there,” I assure him. I mean it. I owe him a debt. A huge one.
“Hhhhmmm,” he considers, taking the joint I pass him. “How do you feel about babysitting?”
I smile at his joke until I look over at Preppy only to see he’s not doing the same.
In fact, it’s the only time in my life I’d ever seen him with a straight face.
“I uh…”
He looks straight ahead through the scratched and broken windshield. Bits of concrete from our escape attempt cover the dashboard, and some of it is lodged into the glass. “Never mind. You can do me one favor, though.”
“Anything within my power. It’s yours.”
“Don’t tell King about this,” he says. It comes out as a sheepish high-pitched question.
“Why? He wouldn’t want to know that you broke me out?”
King was a friend of Belly’s and a good ally to Bedlam. It wouldn’t make sense that he’d be against helping me. I’d do the same for any of them if the roles were reversed.
Preppy shakes his head. “Oh no, he knows I broke you out. I just sent him a text to tell him it’s over. The grand escape is complete.” He steps on the gas. “But he don’t gotta know I used his truck to do it.”


 

Follow: Goodreads Website / Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest / Amazon Author Page

T.M. (Tracey Marie) Frazier never dreamed that a single person would ever read a word she wrote when she published her first book. Now, she is a five-time USA Today bestselling author and her books have been translated into numerous languages and published all around the world.

T.M. enjoys writing what she calls ‘wrong side of the tracks romance’ with morally corrupt anti-heroes and ballsy heroines.

Her books have been described as raw, dark and gritty. Basically, what that means, is while some authors are great at describing a flower as it blooms, T.M. is better at describing it in the final stages of decay.

She loves meeting her readers, but if you see her at an event please don’t pinch her because she’s not ready to wake up from this amazing dream.

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Dirty Sexy Games (Dirty Games Duet #2) by Laurelin Paige-Review & Excerpt Tour

DIRTY SEXY GAMES (Dirty Games Duet #2) by Laurelin Paige-Review and Excerpt Tour

DIRTY SEXY GAMES
Dirty Games Duet #2
by Laurelin Paige
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance,
Release Date: November 6, 2018

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 6, 2018

A sham marriage to an infamous playboy – what could possibly go wrong? Don’t miss the breathtaking, high-stakes conclusion to the Dirty Games duet by New York Times bestselling author Laurelin Paige!

Their union started with a simple plan: to fake a marriage that would allow Elizabeth to take over her father’s company and merge it with Weston’s holdings, creating a vast media empire. But what began as a pretend marriage has become all too real….

Now a bombshell about Weston’s past is keeping him rooted at home while Elizabeth must travel across the globe to take up the company reigns. But their intense connection could bring the entire game crashing down as they’re forced to choose power and family…or the love of a lifetime.

•••••••••

REVIEW: DIRTY SEXY GAMES is the second and final instalment in Laurelin Paige’s contemporary, adult DIRTY GAMES erotic, romance duet. DIRTY SEXY GAMES is the continuing story of businessman and Reach Inc. partner Weston King, and twenty-five year old Dyson Empire heiress Elizabeth Dyson. DIRTY SEXY GAMES should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up immediately after the events and cliff-hanger of book one DIRTY SEXY PLAYER

NOTE: Weston King and his business partner were first introduced to the reader in the author’s Dirty Duet Series. I am not quite sure where in the time line of this particular series the Dirty Duet series takes place but considering the premise of both, there is a possible cross-over and parallel story. You do not have to have read the Dirty Duet to understand or follow Dirty Sexy Player.

SOME BACKGROUND: Upon the death of Elizabeth’s father Dell Dyson, founder, CEO and majority shareholder of Dyson Media, Elizabeth became the sole heir to the bulk of his fortune but circumstances prevent Elizabeth from taking over as her father added a misogynistic provision that Elizabeth must be twenty-nine or married before she is able to gain control. With her father’s cousin slowly dismantling the Dyson Empire, Elizabeth was desperate to secure her share of the family business. Enter Weston King, who, with the not so subtle push from his business partner Donovan Kincaid, reluctantly offers his hand in marriage in an effort to help Elizabeth gain control of Dyson Media, that in return merges Dyson advertising subsidiary with Reach Inc.

If you have not read book one DIRTY SEXY PLAYER there may be some spoilers in my review.

Told from dual first person points of view (Weston and Elizabeth) DIRTY SEXY GAMES follows in the aftermath of two surprising revelations that are about to come crashing down onto our storyline couple. With her marriage to Weston King, Elizabeth will all but secure her place within Dyson Media but Dyson’s head office is in Paris, France, and shocking news just minutes before saying ‘I do’ force Weston to choose between the love of his wife, and responsibilities back home. Never having expected to fall in love with Weston King, Elizabeth will make a heartbreaking decision that pushes Weston out of her life, as she struggles to move forward with what was and what will never be.

DIRTY SEXY GAMES follows Weston and Elizabeth as they embark of their honeymoon, playing a sexy game with one another. Weston battles between head and heart as he struggles to reveal the truth to the woman with whom he has fallen in love, as Elizabeth must prepare to prove that her relationship with Weston is based on love, not secrets and lies. Surprising our hero, Elizabeth accepts everything Weston reveals but Weston continues to struggle with which path to follow.

The relationship between Weston and Elizabeth begins as a marriage of convenience; an acrimonious arrangement wherein Weston struggles to see beyond the spoiled, little rich girl whose only sin is to be born a girl. Throughout the series Weston and Elizabeth slowly develop feelings for one another, feelings that neither believe are reciprocal or true. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

Once again, we are re-introduced to Weston’s business partner Donovan Kincaid, an alpha male who controls Weston like a puppet on a string; Weston’s former friends with benefits Sabrina Lind; fellow business partner Nate Sinclair; Elizabeth’s mother Angela Dyson and her partner Marie; our heroine’s ex lover Clarence Sheridan ; as well as newcomers Dana, Callie and Sebastian; and Weston’s parents Nash and Maggie, and his sister Noelle.

The world building focuses on the relationship between Weston and Elizabeth, and the fallout of past sins on both sides of the family. Elizabeth follows the questionable advice of a mother whose own life spiralled out of control, as Weston must face the man who all be destroyed a young boy’s life.

DIRTY SEXY GAMES is an emotional and heart breaking story line; a sexy, spicy and inviting tale about two people who were thrown together by betrayal and revenge; secrets and lies. The premise is spirited and captivating; the romance is provocative and intense; the characters are energetic, charismatic and real. DIRTY SEXY GAMES is a fascinating and sensitive story of love, sacrifice and happily ever after.

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

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Order DIRTY SEXY PLAYER (Book 1):

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

NOTE: The excerpt is intended for readers 18+ due to strong language and content

As soon as we were in our suite, the bomb exploded, the bomb being Elizabeth. “We’re alone now, so just tell me straight. You knew I was always going to France. If you wanted to be with me, you had to know it would involve living there. Is that not something you’ll even consider? Is it Sabrina? Is it Reach? Is it Donovan? Because if it’s fucking Donovan who’s keeping you from—”

I grabbed her hands, which were flying in midair as she yelled, and pulled them behind her back at her waist as I cut her off with a searing kiss, my tongue plunging into her open mouth, robbing her of oxygen.

When she was thoroughly kissed, her lips pliable, her body sagging in my arms, I let her go.

“I’m tired, Elizabeth. I’m not discussing fucking anything tonight.” I took off my tuxedo jacket and threw it on the desk. Then I began working on my cufflinks. “What I think we both need now is to release some tension.”

Her spine straightened, her neck growing longer as she stared at me in shock. “You think we’re going to have sex now?”

I loved how she made it sound disgusting, like she wasn’t interested, even when I’d just been kissing her and had felt the lean in her body, had tasted the desire in her mouth.

Two could play the indifference game.
I shrugged. “I’m fucking someone tonight. If you want it to be you, you better take off your dress.”

Her mouth slammed shut, and she only seemed to consider it for two seconds before she was fumbling with the zipper at her back. She struggled with it, but I didn’t help her. It made me stiff to watch her frantically trying to strip down, just because I told her to. Just because she thought I might find a better offer if she didn’t.

Like there was a better offer than her.
Like there was anyone but her.

I didn’t take my eyes off her as I unbuttoned my vest and tossed it to the side with my jacket. I’d loosened my tie by the time she got her dress undone. It fell to the floor and she was left wearing a strapless corseted bra, one that had a low back so it couldn’t be seen with her dress on, and matching lace panties—both in a white ivory so virginal and bridal it seemed dirty.

Jesus, she was a fucking wet dream.
And she was my wife.


 

In 2013, Laurelin Paige self-published her first novel. Her husband was just laid off, she had three kids, one with special needs, and they had just filed for bankruptcy so she needed this novel to work. Less than 1 year later, her debut novel, Fixed on You, was at the top of the bestseller lists and was named one of the top ten selling books of 2014 by Publishers Weekly (the only self-published book to do so) and a Top Ten Favorite Read of 2014 by People Magazine. Her successive self-published novels have been smash hits with readers.

Laurelin Paige is the NY Times and USA Today Bestselling Author of the Fixed Trilogy. She’s a sucker for a good romance and gets giddy anytime there’s kissing, much to the embarrassment of her three daughters.

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Control (Everyday Heroes 3.5 / 1001 Dark Nights) by K.Bromberg-Review & Excerpt Tour

CONTROL (Everyday Heroes 3.5 / 1001 Dark Nights) by K.Bromberg-Review and Excerpt Tour

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 13, 2018

Control is something Desi Whitman abhors. Why live life in black and white perfection when you can messily color outside the lines?

But when she comes face to face with SWAT officer Reznor Mayne, he’s about to show her just how good control can feel.

••••••

REVIEW: CONTROL by K. Bromberg is instalment 3.5 (and novella) in the author’s EVERYDAY HEROES, erotic, romance series, and the latest instalment in the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights. This is pet groomer Desi Whitman, and SWAT Team commander Reznor Mayne’s story line. CONTROL can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line in the EVERYDAY HEROES series is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Desi and Reznor) CONTROL follows the building relationship between pet groomer Desi Whitman, and SWAT Team commander Reznor Mayne. Reznor Mayne needs a break. When his last assignment went all to h*ll, the SWAT Team leader was ready to pack it in but his commanding officer told him to take some time off in order to re-evaluate his priorities. Heading to Sunnyville, California Reznor volunteered to work the local Self Defense Class. Enter pet groomer and self-defense student Desi Whitman, and the woman with whom Reznor would fall in love. What ensues is the contemptuous relationship between Desi and Reznor, and the potential fall-out as Desi is unable to let go of the past, pushing Reznor out of her life.

Desi Whitman is lost and struggles to move forward with her life. Suffering PTSD from a home invasion, our heroine begins to pull away from family and friends, preferring to remain locked behind closed doors fearing an attack at any moment. Meeting Reznor Mayne brings all sorts of problems including a palpable sexual attraction, an attraction that is in opposition her need to keep all men at a distance. Reznor Mayne knows the struggle of PTSD including the nightly terrors that keep our hero up late into the night but Reznor had no idea he would meet his future in a woman caught up in the memories of the past, a past he is hoping to help her forget.

The relationship between Reznor and Desi is one of immediate attraction but Desi’s need to belittle all men adds insult to injury for an already broken ‘everyday hero’. Desi struggles with her attraction to Reznor Mayne, an attraction that brings out some mean-spirited attitude that doesn’t belong. The $ex scenes are intimate and intense.

The secondary and supporting characters are colorful and dynamic. We are introduced to instructor Bear, as well as the return of Grant and Emerson Malone (Cuffed #1) for cohesion.

CONTROL is a story of friendship, love and happily ever after; a tale of struggle, romance, and moving forward. The premise is engaging and entertaining; the romance struggles in the face of preconceived notions; the characters are colorful and animated but I had a difficult time accepting the heroine’s immaturity and attitude. Desi’s vulnerability is expected but her treatment of others is questionable and disheartening. Sometimes there is no forgiveness when a character’s behaviour is problematic. My enjoyment of the story line suffered with the heroine’s biased attitude.

Previous Reviews and Reading Order
Cuffed
Combust
Worth The Risk
Control

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

CONTROL Trailer:

Direct Link: https://video214.com/play/9JRxe2IYmtdK0H1FpAInVw/s/dark

NOTE: The Excerpt is intended for mature readers 18+ due to content and strong language

“Remind me not to like him.”
“Like who?” she asks.
Gotta keep her on her toes.
“Logan St. Assh*le,” I say. “Guys who have cats—correction, guys who name their cat Pussy—either aren’t getting any or are using the name as a way to state they’re not gay when everyone already knows they are.”
“Is that so?”
“Yep. Why be ashamed of who you are and hide behind a cat? Just live the best life.”
There’s something I say that has her head tilting to the side again. She takes me in a little longer than expected. “It’s the former,” she finally admits.
I shrug. “Why is he an assh*le?”
“The bigger question is how is he not an assh*le?” For the briefest of moments I see a ghost of a smile on her lips, and it reminds me of how pretty she was the other day before the defense class began when she was chatting me up.
“Doggy Style?” I ask.
“That’s the name.”
“But Pussy is a cat.”
“You’re quite observant…”
“I can imagine you attract all kinds of interesting folks with that name,” I say, dismissing her sarcasm.
For the briefest of moments something flickers through her eyes and before I can put a finger on it, the emotion is gone, but it reminds me of what I saw in them the other day after class.
“Just as I’m sure you do working with SWAT.”
“Always.” I look at the cute cottage-style house. “You lived here long?”
We stare at each other in silence, and it’s almost as if she remembers she isn’t supposed to like me. Her expression and posture suddenly stiffen…probably because she realized she was smiling at me.
And f*ck if I know why it turns me on.
“It’s none of your business.”
So that’s how she wants to play it? Fine.
“Then it’s also none of my business that Pussy ran into the house about two minutes ago.” She narrows her eyes and sneers at me again. “It’s your loss, Desi.”
“What is?”
“That you don’t trust me to show you just how good I am with something wet and groomed.” And with that parting comment, I flash her a lightning-quick grin before heading to my side of the fence, while she grumbles and curses me out under her breath.
I hear her door slam.
I hear her call for Pussy again.
And all I can think about is how damn unexpected she is—and at the same time such a very welcome distraction.
I think I’m going to like my time in Sunnyville.

New York Times Bestselling author K. Bromberg writes contemporary novels that contain a mixture of sweet, emotional, a whole lot of sexy, and a little bit of real. She likes to write strong heroines, and damaged heroes who we love to hate and hate to love.

A mom of three, she plots her novels in between school runs and soccer practices, more often than not with her laptop in tow.

Since publishing her first book in 2013, K. has sold over one million copies of her books and has landed on the New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestsellers lists over twenty-five times.

In April, she’ll release The Player, the first in a two-book sports romance series (The Catch, book 2, will be released late June), with many more already outlined and ready to be written.

She loves to hear from her readers so make sure you check her out on social media or sign up for her newsletter to stay up to date on all her latest releases and sales: http://bit.ly/254MWtI

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon Author | Driven Group

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Fireworks (True North #6) by Sarina Bowen-a review

FIREWORKS (True North #6) by Sarina Bowen-a review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK : Release Date November 13, 2018

Skye Copeland is on paid leave from her broadcasting job after accidentally drawing a pecker on the traffic map.

Let that sink in. Like it’s her fault the traffic pattern created a perfect schlong?

Skye isn’t laughing. She needs this job. And that’s the only reason she’s willing to chase down a story in her least favorite place—that hell on earth known as Vermont.

A quick trip. In and out. Much like – never mind. She can sneak into the town that once tried to break her, get the story and slide back into the good graces of her producer. Easy peasy.

But things go sideways the moment she steps over the county line. Her stepsister is running from a violent drug dealer. And the cop on the case is none other than Benito Rossi, the man who broke Skye’s teenage heart.

His dark brown eyes still tear her apart. And even as she steels herself to finally tell him off after twelve years, the old fireworks are still there.

Things are about to go boom.

••••••••••••

REVIEW:  FIREWORKS is the sixth instalment in Sarina Bowen’s contemporary, adult TRUE NORTH romance series focusing on a tight knit group of family and friends in Colebury, Vermont. This is twenty-eight year old, broadcast journalist Skye Copeland, and thirty-year old, detective Benito Rossi’s story line. FIREWORKS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalments is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Benito and Skye), as well as third person memories from the past, FIREWORKS follows the rekindling relationship between former high school friends- twenty-eight year old, broadcast journalist Skye Copeland, and thirty-year old, detective Benito Rossi. Twelve years earlier Skye Copeland’s life had spiralled out of control when her mother moved our heroine back to Colebury, Vermont, and into a trailer park where her life was a menagerie of unwanted sexual threats. Meeting her neighbour Benito Rossi allowed Skye the protection she needed from her mother’s abusive ex (Jimmy Gage), a man determined to destroy what wasn’t his to touch. Fast forward to present day wherein Skye has been forced into a leave of absence from her New York broadcasting job, a leave precipitated by the drawing of a p*nis on the local traffic map; and the emergency call from her step-sister Rayanne stating there was something important she needed to tell. Enter Benito Rossi, the young man who destroyed our heroine’s heart, and one of the reason’s Skye has never returned to Colebury, Vermont. What ensues is the rekindling romance and relationship between Skye and Benito, and the potential fall-out as Skye’s return to Colebury coincides with a police investigation into a local drug dealer whose customers are dropping like dying flies.

Benito Rossi destroyed Skye’s heart the day he didn’t show up for prom. Humiliated beyond words, our heroine packed up and headed to Aunt Jenny’s in an effort to forget about the boy she once loved. Twelve years would pass before Skye returned to the town that devastated her life, a town where her past is about to come full circle. Benito Rossi never stopped loving the girl that got away. With no explanation or forwarding address Skye disappeared from Benito’s life, a disappearance Benito would mourn until Skye’s return.

The relationship between Benito and Skye is one of second chances; a rekindling romance between two people who fell in love but never acted upon their attraction or want. Benito refused to take advantage of the pain and humiliation of a sixteen year old girl, while Skye secretly hoped that her feelings were not a one-sided affair. The $ex scenes are intimate and intense, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters, a source of some of the past events that are slowly revealed. We are reintroduced to Griffin and Audrey (Bittersweet #1), Zara and her daughter Nicole (Bountiful #4), May and Alec (Speakeasy #5); high school mean girl Jill Sullivan; Jimmy Gage, and his daughter Rayanne, as well as a number of journalists with whom Skylar connects when her boss demands a return to work, and the local police department as they struggle to contain the growing drug epidemic.

The world building followed several paths including a focus upon some of the backstory, and the dangerous situation into which Skye had been placed; the history between Skye and a number of the secondary characters; the sexual predilections of her mother’s ex; the search and take down of the local drug supplier; Rayanne’s part in bringing Skye to Colebury, as well as the rekindling romance between Benito and Skye.

FIREWORKS is a story of family and friendship; betrayal and heart break; secrets and lies. The premise is interesting; the romance is passionate; the characters are energetic. I had a couple of issues including why Benito never searched for the woman with whom he fell in love, and his ability to defend and deflect his last relationship; and Skye’s naivete as it pertained to Rayanne’s lies.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Wicked Whiskey Love (The Whiskeys #4) by Melissa Foster-Review & Giveaway Tour

WICKED WHISKEY LOVE ( The Whiskeys #4) by Melissa Foster-Review and Giveaway Tour

WICKED WHISKEY LOVE
The Whiskeys #4
by Melissa Foster
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance
Release Date: November 7,2018

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 7, 2018

After escaping abusive parents and, later, an abusive relationship, Sarah Beckley has spent a lifetime watching snakes shed their skin. With two small children to care for and another on the way, she’s finally found a home in Peaceful Harbor with the brother she hasn’t seen in more than a decade. She’s still searching for her sister, but life is good. If only she could stop thinking about the sinfully sexy doctor/biker who has taken to her children like a loving uncle-and to her like a hungry man.

Trust doesn’t come easily for Sarah, but Bones Whiskey is patient and protective, amazing with her children, and he looks at her like she is the only woman he could ever want-and more. With two little ones underfoot, Sarah expects him to move on quickly, yet with every tender kiss and each trying moment with the children, Bones surprises her. But will the fiercely loyal biker stick around when Sarah’s worst secret is revealed, or will he shed his skin, too?

•••••••••••

REVIEW:  WICKED WHISKEY LOVE is the fourth instalment in Melissa Foster’s contemporary adult THE WHISKEYS erotic, romance series focusing on the Whiskey family of Peaceful Harbor. This is oncology physician Wayne ‘Bones’ Whiskey, and single mother / hairstylist Sarah Beckley’s story line. WICKED WHISKEY LOVE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and cohesion including Sarah’s introduction to the Peaceful Harbor town. Sarah was first introduced to the reader in Driving Whiskey Wild. The Whiskeys series is a spin off from the author’s Bradens of Peaceful Harbor. There is a slight MC biker theme throughout the series as the Whiskeys are part of the local Dark Knights MC.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line content including references to rape, physical and emotional abuse, there may be some issues for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Bones and Sarah) WICKED WHISKEY LOVE follows the building relationship between oncology physician Wayne ‘Bones’ Whiskey, and twenty-six year old, single mother / hairstylist Sarah Beckley. Months earlier Sarah Beckley, along with her children Bradley and Lila, and her brother Scott ‘crashed’ into Peaceful Harbor hoping for a new start. Years of abuse at the hand of her parents, and the children’s father forced Sarah to run without looking back. Meeting the Whiskey family of Peaceful Harbor gave Sarah a hope for the future but our heroine never expected to fall in love with a man willing to accept her past, and the children she loved. Enter Dr. Wayne ‘Bones’ Whiskey, the epitome of the perfect man, including his readiness to bring Sarah into his life. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Sarah and Bones, and the potential fall-out as Sarah struggles with memories from the past, and Bones’ determination to help Sarah move forward pushes at her already fragile persona.

The relationship between Sarah and Bones is one of immediate attraction but Sarah struggles between head and heart as a single mother who’s sole purpose is to see to her children’s safety and security. Bones is willing to take it slow suspecting Sarah has suffered throughout most of her life but our hero never expected to fall in love with a ready-made family. The $ex scenes are intimate, seductive and passionate, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large and colorful ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including the Whiskey family who founded the Dark Knights MC: Special Forces Veteran Bullet Whiskey and Finlay Wilson (Driving Whiskey Wild #3), biker/mechanic Bear Whiskey and his wife Crystal (Truly, Madly, Whiskey 2), as well as Crystal’s brother Jed; Bones’ sister Dixie; Dixie, Bullet, Bear, and Bones’ parents Biggs and Wren (Red) Whiskey; Truman & Gemma (Tru Blue #1) ; Truman’s brothers and sister, Quincy, Lincoln and Kennedy; Sarah’s brother Scott Beckley. We are re-introduced to Sarah’s children: four-year old Bradley, and eleven month old Lila; Scott and Sarah’s sister Josie, as well as a number of women living at a local women’s shelter. Jed and Jose’s story line is next in Mad About Moon.

The world building focuses on the building relationship and growing love between Bones and Sarah, but also looks at the fall-out and ramifications of parental and spousal, physical and emotional abuse, and the ongoing struggle to move forward without having to constantly look back. The Whiskey family, and thusly the Dark Knights MC are an over-protective group who readily accept Sarah, Scott and the Beckley brood with open arms and open hearts.

WICKED WHISKEY LOVE is an emotional and passionate story line. Melissa Foster takes the reader on a journey of betrayal and recovery; family and friendship; falling in love and letting go of the past. The premise is raw, real and inspiring; the characters are realistic and moving; the romance is seductive and intense. WICKED WHISKEY LOVE is an impassioned and dramatic tale of second chances, of a sort, for a woman who has endured and survived.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Tru Blue
Truly Madly Whiskey
Driving Whiskey Wild
Wicked Whiskey Love

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

TRU BLUE
by Melissa Foster
Release Date: November 9, 2016
Genre: adult, contemporary,erotic, romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 9, 2016

Imagine falling in love with a man, then finding out he was a killer…TRU BLUE is a sexy, dark stand-alone novel written in the same loving, raw, and emotional voice romance readers have come to love, and the deeply emotional literary prose women’s fiction readers have come to expect, from New York Times & USA Today bestselling, award-winning author Melissa Foster.

He wore the skin of a killer, and bore the heart of a lover…

There’s nothing Truman Gritt won’t do to protect his family–Including spending years in jail for a crime he didn’t commit. When he’s finally released, the life he knew is turned upside down by his mother’s overdose, and Truman steps in to raise the children she’s left behind. Truman’s hard, he’s secretive, and he’s trying to save a brother who’s even more broken than he is. He’s never needed help in his life, and when beautiful Gemma Wright tries to step in, he’s less than accepting. But Gemma has a way of slithering into people’s lives and eventually she pierces through his ironclad heart. When Truman’s dark past collides with his future, his loyalties will be tested, and he’ll be faced with his toughest decision yet.

••••••••••

TRULY, MADLY, WHISKEY
by Melissa Foster
Release Date: April 10, 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon. uk / B&N / KOBO / BAM / iBooks  /  GPlay

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 10, 2017

A new, emotionally riveting, sexy standalone romance by New York Times bestselling author Melissa Foster.

Watch mysteriously sexy Bear Whiskey claw his way to his happily ever after with sassy, rebellious Crystal Moon.

In TRULY, MADLY, WHISKEY…
Eight months is a long damn time to have the hots for a woman who keeps a guy at arm’s length. But Crystal Moon is no ordinary woman. She’s a sinfully sexy, sass-mouthed badass, and the subject of Bear Whiskey’s midnight fantasies. She’s also one of his closest friends.

Just when Crystal thinks she has her life under control, scorching-hot, possessive, aggressive, and fiercely loyal Bear pushes all her sexual buttons, relentless in his pursuit to make her his.

The more Bear pushes, the hotter their passion burns, unearthing memories for Crystal that are best kept buried. But there’s no stopping the collision of her past and present, catapulting the two lovers down an emotionally charged road that has them questioning all they thought they knew about themselves.

••••••••••

DRIVING WHISKEY WILD
The Whiskeys #3
by Melissa Foster
Release Date: February 21, 2018
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 21, 2018

Special Forces veteran and Dark Knights Motorcycle Club member Bullet Whiskey lives to protect his family, their bar, and the residents of his small hometown. He’s rough, unapologetic, and haunted by a secret, painful past. He’s also a master at keeping people away, and when his sister hires gorgeous and sweet Finlay Wilson to help expand their biker bar, he knows just how to get rid of her.

After losing her boyfriend and her father, Finlay moves back to her hometown to be closer to the little family she has left. She needs her temporary job at Whiskey Bro’s to get her catering business off the ground, and she’s determined not to let the gruff, arrogant mountain of a man Bullet Whiskey scare her off.

Finlay is everything Bullet has never wanted. She’s afraid of his dog, afraid of motorcycles, and sweet enough to give him cavities, but as she weaves her way into the hearts of everyone around him, he’s powerless to resist her charms. Passion ignites, but trust doesn’t come easily, and when their pasts collide, Bullet finds out the true meaning of protecting those he loves.

Melissa Foster is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling and award-winning author. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance, new adult romance and women’s fiction with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Readers adore Melissa’s fun, flirty, and sinfully sexy, award-winning big-family romance collection, LOVE IN BLOOM featuring the Snow Sisters, Bradens, Remingtons, Ryders, Seaside Summer, Harborside Nights, Wild Boys and Bad Boys After Dark, and the Montgomerys. Melissa’s emotional journeys are lovingly erotic and always family oriented– perfect beach reads for contemporary romance lovers who enjoy reading about loyal, wealthy heroes and smart, sassy heroines with complex and relatable issues.Melissa also writes sweet and clean romance under the pen name Addison Cole.

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.

Never miss a brand new release, special promotions or inside gossip again by simply signing up to receive your newsletter from Melissa.

Find Melissa on the following sites….
Tru Blue (Sexy standalone romance) by [Foster, Melissa]
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Ache For You (Slow Burn #3) by JT Geissinger – Review & Excerpt Tour

ACHE FOR YOU (Slow Burn #3) by JT Geissinger-Review and Excerpt Tour

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 6, 2018

In this fairy tale with a sexy twist, she’s a penniless San Francisco seamstress. He’s the king of Italian couture. Who’s got designs on whom?

Boutique owner Kimber DiSanto has seen better days. She’s been dumped at the altar by Prince Charmless, her business went up in flames (literally), and now she’s stuck in Florence, Italy, with an ice-queen stepmother, to try to save her late father’s failing dress shop. Only one thing could make it worse: another man in her life. The arrogant Italian fashion tycoon offering to buy her father’s shop is as rich as he is sexy, and their attraction is off the charts. But Kimber’s not about to get burned again.

Women don’t say no to Matteo Moretti—and certainly not with Kimber’s stinging precision. With all the heat and fury sparking between them, Matteo can’t resist baiting the gorgeous American. His plan? Win her over one scorching kiss at a time.

Kimber tells herself it’s all just a game. That her broken heart isn’t in danger, and that Matteo’s touch does not make her Lady Land dance with joy. But sometimes it takes the fieriest of enemies to turn a fantasy into a real-life romance

•••••••••

REVIEW: ACHE FOR YOU is the third instalment in JT Geissinger’s contemporary, adult SLOW BURN erotic, romance series. This is Italian Marchese Matteo Moretti, and boutique owner/designer Kimber DiSanto’s story line. ACHE FOR YOU can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Kimber and Matteo) ACHE FOR YOU is a Cinderella-esque / forbidden romance story line focusing on Italian Marchese Matteo Moretti, and boutique owner/designer Kimber DiSanto. Kimber DiSanto’s life is spiralling out of control: dumped at the altar, the death of her father, blindsided by a step-mother she never knew, and a fire that destroyed her designer boutique, our heroine finds herself in Florence, Italy in an effort to ensure her father’s dress shop remains a viable operation. But Kimber’s run of bad luck continues to grow when a gorgeous Italian male makes Kimber an offer she cannot refuse. Enter Marchese Matteo Moretti, Kimber’s ex step-brother, and the man with whom Kimber will fall in love. What ensues is the acrimonious relationship between Kimber and Matteo, and the potential fall-out as Kimber struggles with issues of trust, when betrayal is but a design sketch away.

Kimber DiSanto’s father was dying and our heroine was desperate to catch a flight overseas but Kimber was bumped, and her only option was to reluctantly give her latest designs to the handsome stranger in exchange for a first class ticket to Florence, Italy. Judgemental but wary Kimber doesn’t do herself any favors as she endeavors to take control of her father’s fashion line in an effort to prevent the competition from gaining control. Matteo Moretti was drawn in by the beautiful designer from the first time they met but offering her his ticket in exchange for her designs was all kinds of betrayal for a woman he would come to love. Hoping to make things right, nothing ever goes according to plans and the fall-out threatens the woman he loves.

The relationship between Matteo and Kimber is one of immediate attraction but Kimber was in no position for a rebound romance including a romance with a man she believes is out to destroy the DiSanto family business. As Matteo attempts to seduce our story line heroine, Kimber is conflicted by rumors and warnings about the man (and family) with whom she is falling in love. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text but I struggled with a perceived lack of palpable sexual energy. Matteo is the epitome of an Italian lover while Kimber is a brash, mouthy and slightly hysterical American of Italian descent.

The secondary and supporting characters are colorful and charismatic. We are introduced to Kimber’s best friends: fashion model Jenner, and Danielle, as well as her ex-fiance Brad Wingate; Matteo’s mother, the Marchesa Lady Moretti, and her major-domo Lorenzo, and her father’s best friend Dominic.

ACHE FOR YOU is a captivating, multi-troped story line: enemies to lover, reimagined fairy tale, left at the altar, and forbidden romance. The premise is entertaining and enjoyable; the romance is seductive and sexy; the characters are spirited and animated.

There are some issues of repetition including the use and application of the word ‘uterus’ (and derivatives) sixteen times as our heroine’s inner monologue focuses on her attraction to a man she believes is the ultimate betrayal. I am a big fan of JT Geissinger’s style of writing but I had a difficult time connecting to her latest couple.

Reading Order and Previous reviews
Burn For You
Melt For You
Ache For You

NOTE:  ebook BURN FOR YOU (Slow Burn #1) is only $1.99 

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

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

With my chin held high, I go over to him, push him out of the doorway, and slam the door in his face.
The door instantly swings back open.
Shit. No lock.
“You know, hate and love aren’t so different, bella.”
He’s being philosophical now, pursing his pretty mouth and gazing at the ceiling, as if viewing the stars.
I could kill him.
“Why do you enjoy torturing me? Are you some kind of sadist?”
He ignores me, naturally, and continues his little Socratic speech. “They’re two sides of the same coin, really. Passion, obsession, sweaty palms, and a racing heart. Lost sleep.” He slides his gaze over to the cheese and salami on the dresser. “A poor appetite.”
“You want a poor appetite? I’ll give you a poor appetite. I’ll take that salami and wedge it so far down your throat you won’t be able to eat ever again.”
Amused by my fury, he smiles. “Passion,” he reminds me, smug as shit.
I look around for something to throw at him.
“Let’s call a truce.” He strolls forward, hands in his pockets.
As if I’ll feel safer that way.
“No truce. No way. And you’re the one who started this war, remember?”
He makes a face, like he’s doubtful.
“Yes, you. Wait, why am I even talking to you? You fake kissed me!”
“Did I?”
“Yes! You admitted you did!”
“Hmm. I don’t recall that.”
“So we’ll add dementia to your long list of problems.”
By now he’s trapped me at the edge of the bed, advancing so stealthily I hardly noticed it, which was probably his dastardly plan all along.
I stand my ground and flatten my hand in the center of his chest, bracing my arm so he can’t move forward. “I’m not a joke,” I say, my voice raw. “I’m not a plaything.”
“I never said you were.”
Under my palm, his heart is a jackhammer. We do the hate breathing at each other again, which apparently is becoming our thing. Then we do the hate eye fucking again, which is definitely becoming our thing.
He says softly, “You’re giving me grief about how I look at you? You should see your eyes right now.” His voice drops an octave. “So dirty, bella. So very, very dirty.”
“I’m not selling the company, no matter how much you try to sex it out of me.”
He quirks an eyebrow. “Sex it out of you?” As I watch with ragged breath, he sinks his teeth into his full lower lip. “Now that sounds interesting. Let’s discuss.”
“You’re a pig.”
“And yet you want me.”
“You’re unbelievable!”
“Yes, women have told me that before. Usually right after they come.”
I can’t even with this guy!
Then it’s like he remembers something. He looks around, frowning. “What are you doing in here?”
“What does it look like I’m doing? Trying to get rid of you!”
He looks at the wad of sheets in the corner. He looks at the freshly made bed. Then he looks back at me. The smile that breaks over his face is breathtaking.
“My darling ex-stepsister. Are you moving in?”
Very deliberately, I slide my hand up his chest until I reach his neck. Then I grasp his throat—lightly, but enough to let him know I mean it.
His skin is hot to the touch, and his throat is strong. Thick. It makes me think of other hot, thick body parts.
I officially hate myself.
He lifts his brows, obviously amused. “You have the most interesting internal conversations. Are you going to choke me?”
I growl. It sounds silly, like a kitten trying to be scary.
Matteo leans forward. My arm is still locked at the elbow, so it puts more pressure around his throat. Holding my gaze, he says softly, “Go ahead. I know you want to.”
Boy, do I. I curl my other hand around his neck so now I’ve got him good and surrounded. I feel his pulse, beating hard against my palms. It’s weirdly arousing.
Intently watching my face, he whispers, “Those eyes.”

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads /Pinterest / Instagram /

A former headhunter, J.T. Geissinger is the author of more than a dozen novels in contemporary romance, paranormal romance, and romantic suspense.

She is the recipient of the Prism Award for Best First Book, the Golden Quill Award for Best Paranormal/Urban Fantasy, and is a two-time finalist for the RITA® Award from the Romance Writers of America®. Her work has also finaled in the Booksellers’ Best, National Readers’ Choice, and Daphne du Maurier Awards.

Join her Facebook reader’s group, Geissinger’s Gang, to take part in weekly Wine Wednesday live chats and giveaways, find out more information about works in progress, have access to exclusive excerpts and contests, and get advance reader copies of her upcoming releases.

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Searing Need (Steele Ridge: The Kingston #3) by Tracey Devlyn-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway Tour

SEARING NEED ( Steele Ridge : The Kingstons #3) by Tracey Devlyn-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway Tour

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 9, 2018

To escape a brutal killer, a brilliant researcher teams up with a tortured soldier who poses an even greater threat . . . to her heart.

Her sister might be the law and her brothers the brawn, but Riley Kingston is definitely the brains of the family. She’s a talented botanist well on her way to a PhD—so why does she feel like a failure? Fired from a dream project in Costa Rica, Riley’s stuck back in her hometown. Cataloguing plants on Steele land keeps her busy, but it’s far from compelling work. Until she discovers a fascinating new specimen. One with a body made for pleasure . . . and eyes filled with a pain she longs to understand.

Delta Force operator Coen Monroe doesn’t want to be studied. Not even by the sexy scientist whose inquisitive glances stir up desires he isn’t ready to handle. He came to Steele Ridge to be alone, to battle his nightmares and the memories triggering them. But Riley’s gentle seduction is as relentless as her curiosity. She soothes his wounded soul . . . and fires up his defensive instincts. But when her research sparks a deadly conspiracy, Coen is exactly what she needs.

When Riley is targeted by a sociopath bent on silencing her forever, Coen will do anything to protect her. But can he save the woman he loves without losing himself in the process?

•••••••••••

REVIEW: SEARING NEED by Tracey Devlyn is the third instalment in the multi-authored STEELE RIDGE: THE KINGSTONS romantic suspense series-a spin off from the authors’ STEELE RIDGE series. This is ethnobotanist Riley Kingston, and Delta Force operator Coen Monroe’s story line. SEARING NEED can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalment or original series is revealed where necessary.

NOTE: SEARING NEED contains scenes of graphic violence and torture, and may not be suitable for more sensitive readers.

Told from several third person perspectives including Riley and Coen, SEARING NEED follows the building romance and relationship between is ethnobotanist Riley Kingston, and Delta Force operator Coen Monroe. Riley Kingston’s life spiralled out of control when she was abruptly sent home in the middle of a Costa Rican research project. When her cousin Britt Steele offered her a job ‘cataloguing’ the local vegetation on the family-owned Steele-Shepherd Wildlife Research Center, our heroine never expected to run into a naked man, apparently squatting on the family land. Enter Delta Force operator Coen Monroe, and the man with whom Riley will fall in love. What ensues is the building but combative relationship between Riley and Coen, and the potential fall-out as Coen struggles with severe PTSD, and Riley’s past is threatening any chance for a happily ever after.

Three months earlier Delta Force operator Coen Monroe witnessed horrific atrocities on his last mission to South America, a mission where he lost everything including his peace of mind. Unable to move forward Coen was offered some alone time by friend and fellow soldier Reed Steele, at the Steele-Shepherd Wildlife Research Center, time Coen spent struggling with memories of the past. Running into Coen Monroe found our heroine more than intrigued about the who, how and why of Coen’s past but Riley Kingston never expected to fall in love with the damaged and broken Coen Monroe, love that will be tested when Riley’s past seeks something Riley doesn’t have.

The relationship between Riley and Coen is slow to develop as Coen struggles with social interactions as he battles the demons that control his life. Riley is determined to help the man with whom she is falling in love but sometimes the demons are too hard to control. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful secondary and supporting characters including Britt Steele and Randi Shepherd; Reid Steele; Gage Barber; Riley’s sister and local sheriff Maggie, and their brothers, Cash, and Shep aka Harris Kingston. We are introduced to Riley’s former co-workers Nick Landry, Dr. Hathaway, and Camilla; as well as Coen’s commanders General Delarosa and Colonel Walsh.

The world building focuses on the post traumatic stress of soldiers returning from war: their inability to let go of the horrendous atrocities witnessed, and the torture inflicted as prisoners of war. A heart breaking disorder with little to no cure, PTSD is central to Coen’s relationship with Riley, as our heroine struggles to accept the probability that Coen may be damaged for the rest of his life.

SEARING NEED is a raw, real and gritty story line of one soldier’s battle to get on with his life, and one woman’s endeavour to save the man that she loves. The premise is thought provoking and strong; the characters are complex, spirited and flawed; the romance is spirited and moving. SEARING NEED does not end on a happily ever after but on a happily ever after-for now, as our couple embark on separate journeys in an effort to move forward in their respective lives. The reveal as to the person responsible for the threats against our heroine’s life is predictable but entertaining, none the less.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

The fox continued to watch them with unnerving stillness.

He swore. “Let’s make this quick.”

She nodded, flexing her fingers inside her leather gloves. Kneeling at the pit’s edge, she crooned to the frightened, trapped kit. “It’s okay, little one. We’ll have you out of there in a blink.” Looking up at Coen, she asked, “Ready?”

“I’m not the one going into a confined space with a rabid animal.”

“Not every wild creature is rabid. Sometimes they’re just scared.”

He studied her for the space of a breath before motioning to her to get into position. “What do you need?”

“Hold my ankles until I signal that I’ve got the kit, then pull like hell.” She placed the butt of the penlight between her teeth, and without another word, the botanist lay on her stomach, arrowed her arms into the hole, and slid beneath the earth’s surface.

Scrabbling to grasp her ankles, he couldn’t decide if she was one of the most fearless people he’d ever encountered or one of the most reckless.

She lowered her entire torso into the pit, which left him with a perfect view of her firm, well-rounded ass. Heat speared into his gut.

Reid’s cousin, Reid’s cousin, Reid’s cousin.

He forced himself to look away.

While he’d been preoccupied by the botanist’s assets, the adult fox had moved several feet closer. He tightened his grip around her ankles.

“Hurry up,” he demanded.

He received a garbled reply in return. Then the muscles in her calves tautened and her body jerked.

“Do you have it?” he asked.

More garbled words. She couldn’t speak with the damned penlight in her mouth.

“Do you have it?” he pressed.

She must have removed the flashlight long enough to bark out a loud whispered, “No.”

His attention whipped back to the adult sentinel. The fox now sat no more than ten feet away. Way too close for his comfort.

“Ten more seconds and then I’m pulling you out.”

He began the countdown in his head while he kept one eye of the fox. Once he hit ten, he said, “Time’s up.”

Riley began to struggle in his grip, but he dragged her out of the pit, inch by inch, his muscles flexing and straining. When her head cleared the opening, he held his breath, hoping he’d given her enough time to secure the kit.

She spit the penlight out of her mouth and used her free hand to raise herself into a kneeling position. Slowly her other hand cleared the pit and a small, red ball of fluff dangled above the ground.

The adult fox stalked closer, its black-socked paws taking measured steps toward its offspring.

“Set the kit down, Riley.”

“I need to first make sure it’s okay.”

“Set it down.”

She must have picked up on the tension in his voice, for she did as instructed.

They both watched as the kit shuffled away, panicking, before noticing the adult nearby. Body low, the kit beelined for the safety of its parent. The two touched noses before sprinting into the woods.

Watching the two foxes reunite helped banish the remnants of his nightmare. He looked to where Riley sat on the ground. Wisps of dark hair framed her flushed face, and dirt streaked her white tank top. Her breasts rose high with each excited breath.

Pushing her glasses up, she gave him a broad, joyful smile.

Something in his chest cracked.

Tracey Devlyn is an award-winning author who writes historical romantic thrillers (translation: a slightly more grievous journey toward the heroine’s happy ending). She’s a co-founder of Romance University, a group blog dedicated to readers and writers of romance, and Lady Jane’s Salon-Naperville, Chicagoland’s exciting new reading salon devoted to romantic fiction.

An Illinois native, Tracey spends her evenings harassing her once-in-a-lifetime husband and her weekends torturing her characters. For more information on Tracey, including her Internet haunts, contest updates, and details on her upcoming novels, please visit her website.

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My One and Only Duke / Respect for Christmas by Grace Burrowes-Reviews and Giveaway

My One and Only Duke (Rogues to Riches #1) / Respect for Christmas by Grace Burrowes-Reviews and Giveaway

MY ONE AND ONLY DUKE
Rogues to Riches #1
by Grace Burrowes
Genre: adult, historical, romance
Release Date: November 6, 2018

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

A funny thing happened on the way to the gallows…
One minute, London banker Quinn Wentworth is facing execution. The next, he’s declared the long-lost heir to a dukedom. Quinn has fought his way up from the vilest slums, and now he’s ready to use every dirty trick he knows to find the enemy who schemed against him.

There was just one tiny problem…
Jane Winston, the widowed, pregnant daughter of a meddlesome prison preacher, crosses paths with Quinn in jail. Believing his days are numbered, Quinn offers Jane marriage as a way to guarantee her independence and provide for her child. Neither thinks they’ll actually have a future together.

They were wrong.
He’s a wealthy gutter rat out for vengeance. She’s a minister’s daughter who must turn a marriage of desperation into a proper ducal union. Are they doomed from the start or destined for a happily-ever-after?

A funny thing happened on the way to the gallows…
One minute, London banker Quinn Wentworth is facing execution. The next, he’s declared the long-lost heir to a dukedom. Quinn has fought his way up from the vilest slums, and now he’s ready to use every dirty trick he knows to find the enemy who schemed against him.

There was just one tiny problem…
Jane Winston, the widowed, pregnant daughter of a meddlesome prison preacher, crosses paths with Quinn in jail. Believing his days are numbered, Quinn offers Jane marriage as a way to guarantee her independence and provide for her child. Neither thinks they’ll actually have a future together.

They were wrong.
He’s a wealthy gutter rat out for vengeance. She’s a minister’s daughter who must turn a marriage of desperation into a proper ducal union. Are they doomed from the start or destined for a happily-ever-after?

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REVIEW: My One and Only Duke is “A Rogue to Riches Novel”.

This wonderfully written, and the very interesting story has enough twists and changes to give you whiplash. It is set in the time of old King George and has plots within plots. I found it impossible to put down. I found it unique and thoroughly enjoyable.
I don’t do spoilers, I feel reading the book and experiencing the story for yourself is the most wonderful thing in the world. However, I can set up the gist of the story for you to show you what I loved about this book.

Quinn Wentworth in prison for a murder he didn’t commit and sentenced to be hanged. Quinn was raised a poor lad and made his fortune by learning and bettering himself beyond what most could accomplish. He has two sisters and a younger brother and has taken care of them his whole life. He and his partner are bankers with a thriving business and a fortune. Quinn is a generous man, but nobody’s fool. His execution has been delayed because the executioner has taken ill.

Jane Winston is the daughter of a minister who cares for the souls of the prisoners. She is taken into his cell (a comfortable area for a wealthy prisoner) to wait on her father to finish. Quinn objects, but treats her kindly as he found her pretty and interesting. She found him handsome and a little frightening (since he was a murderer).

They had an interesting conversation, each intrigued by the other. Jane had a hard time believing this man, so kind to those around him and well mannered, could have killed a man. He’s concerned about the boy that he’s come to know (Ned), and she says she’ll help him get out of prison and to Quinn’s family to be cared for. During a second visit, make arrangements for Ned, Quinn found out Jane is pregnant, and her husband is dead. He makes a generous offer to wed her before his death and make plans for her to have a house and money to live on. She surprised but having a way to live and raise her child makes her accept.

Behind the main characters, there is a sub-plot happening. It seams the Duke of Walden has died with no legitimate heirs. The Dukedom is in debt and Quinn is the only blood relative in line.

How all this comes about is remarkably well done with great development of the characters. Will they get to him in time? What sort of Duke will he be? Will Jane agree to remain his bride? Who did this to him? So many questions…treat yourself and find the answers by getting and reading a copy of this marvelous story!

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Georgianna S

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RESPECT FOR CHRISTMAS
by Grace Burrowes
Genre: adult, historical, Christmas, romance
Release Date: November 20, 2018

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

Previously published in Virtues of Christmas.

Henrietta Whitlow is leaving behind the life of a very successful courtesan in hopes of making peace with her family in the shires. Michael Brenner’s family all but ignore him, despite his shiny new baronial title, and his errand along the Oxford road isn’t half so benign as Henrietta’s. While trying to settle a debt of honor involving Henrietta, Michael instead loses his heart and comes to understand the true meaning of holiday spirit.

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REVIEW: Respect for Christmas is a lovely romantic Christmas story.

Lord Michael Brenner, Baron Angelford is a titled Irishman with a lot of common sense and kindness He has a debt of honor to one Lord Beltram. Lord Beltram is an extremely unscrupulous man who long ago seduced his housemaid Henrietta Whitlow into his bed, then when tired of her sent her into a ruined life as a courtesan. Now he wants Michael to steal a book of bad poetry and sketches he’d written and given to Henrietta about their time together. Lord Beltram is afraid she’ll publish it and ruin his chances of securing a decent wife. Michael reluctantly agrees to settle his debt of honor to Beltram.

Henrietta Whitlow is a recently retired courtesan, whose only wish is to reconcile with her estranged father and family. She’s a kind person who knows her reputation is ruined, but who only wants to go back to the quiet life she was forced to leave hears ago.

I don’t do spoilers…so that’s as much detail as I will give. Author Grace Burrowes has written a heartwarming story of love and redemption, forgiveness and second chances. Just in time for the Christmas season! It’s not only well written, it’s compelling and scrumptiously romantic. I came to love both the main characters as they learned about each other. A wonderful story of how things can go wrong, and people aren’t always what you thought.

Do yourself a huge solid and cuddle up with this wonderful story.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Georgianna S

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Grace Burrowes’ bestsellers include The Heir, The Soldier, Lady Maggie’s Secret Scandal, Lady Sophie’s Christmas Wish and Lady Eve’s Indiscretion. Her Regency romances have received extensive praise, including starred reviews from Publishers Weekly and Booklist. Grace is branching out into short stories and Scotland-set Victorian romance with Sourcebooks. She is a practicing family law attorney and lives in rural Maryland.

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Forever Romance and Hachette Books are graciously offering a paper copy of MY ONE AND ONLY by Grace Burrowes to TWO (2) lucky commenters at The Reading Cafe

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