Tag Archives: New Release Reviews 2019

Andre, The Kingslayer by Aubrey T. Copeland-Review and Interview

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Andre, the Kingslayer by Aubrey T. Copeland-Review and Interview

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 3, 2019

The year is 1427. The Great Revolution has been raging for eight long years, effecting every aspect of life in the Isobellian Empire. Countless are dead, and thousands of families have been torn apart. But the Empire still has hope to be freed.

Andreas Bellbrook is the Kingslayer: a prophesied hero destined by fate to steal the legendary sword Excelsior from the Black King Tiberius. With it, Andre will end the war by killing the Black King despite his immortality.

But Tiberius has grown wise to the Kingslayer’s destiny, and will stop at nothing to see him killed.

Soon, Andre is swept into a war that he wants no part in, and the only way for him to survive is to join the national resistance and steal the legendary sword with their aid. Before long, Andre’s life will depend on their victory.

••••••••••

REVIEW:“The war was almost over.
After eight long years of endless battles, the king would soon be dead. The reign of Tiberius would be known as the darkest in the history of the Empire. Never before had a king been so hated, and never had such hatred been so deserved. But thanks to a man named André (also called “the Kingslayer”), the Black King Tiberius would soon be a memory…..”

Wow!!
That was really good. Although the footnotes that were added after each chapter, were a little confusing at first, but explained much without writing it into the story, so you could skip the footnotes and not really notice too much.

After eight long years the bitter war would soon be over. The most hated king in the Isobellian Empire was Tiberius. He was a cruel and vicious ruler.

Andre is professed to be a kingslayer. (Either a slayer of kings or going to be a slayer)

We then face a long and deadly gave of cat and mouse, Andre must find a special sword in order to kill the “Black King” looking forward clues as to the whereabouts of the sword, all the while avoiding the imperial knights looking to end the legend.

It’s really well written and flows seamlessly from one chapter to another.
The battles are described well. And we get that sense of urgency. Andre needs to find the sword. And he needs to fight the black knight

The supporting characters are written about well. We have a few, that seem more important, a princess that needs to be saved.

It has magical elements in the story also. Wizards, wands and spells. A ring that give the wearer immortality. And a sword that can kill a King!!!

Copy supplied for review

? Reviewed by Julie B

TRC: Hi Aubrey and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the recent release of ANDRE, THE KINGSLAYER.

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

Follow: Twitter/Amazon Author Page/Instagram/

Aubrey: I am a writer from central Arkansas, who is always down for a good book and a nice beverage. I love animals. I love the simple things. And yes, that includes writing. 🙂

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing?

Aubrey:Honestly, it was probably J.R.R. Tolkien. If he had never been published as a fantasy writer, it’s likely I never would’ve written a single word of fiction. So, you can blame my work on him, though only indirectly.

TRC: What challenges or difficulties did you encounter writing and publishing this story?

Aubrey:The biggest challenge was the editing process. It is so difficult to find an editor that’s worth the money. Aside from that, another challenge was funding the book’s publication (since I am an indie author). Self-publishing a book that’s a quality product isn’t an easy task. That’s for sure.

TRC: Would you please tell us something about the premise of  Andre, the Kingslayer?

Aubrey:It’s a high fantasy that focuses on a man named André. He is the subject of a prophecy that says he will end Isobellia’s civil war by stealing a religious artifact (a sword called Excelsior), and by killing the Black King Tiberius with it. In order to do this, André must befriend all sorts of interesting characters, but I’ll keep you in suspense on what kind of characters exactly.

TRC: Do you have plans to write a series focusing on the adventures of Andreas Bellbrook, the Kingslayer?

Aubrey:I don’t currently plan on writing a series. I have an idea for a sequel, but it’s so obscure at this point that it may not ever happen.

TRC: What kind of research/plotting did you do, and how long did you spend researching /plotting before beginning Andre, The Kingslayer

Aubrey:That’s an interesting question. I spent virtually no time researching or plotting the book before I wrote the book, but I spent a ridiculous amount of time editing it after the fact. During that time, I did research that I should’ve done at the beginning to make the book better. The whole process took about thirteen years, which is ludicrous because it’s not a huge book.

TRC: Do you believe the cover image plays a deciding factor for many readers in the process of selecting a book or new series to read?

Aubrey:I do. They say not to judge a book by its cover, but we all do it. So yes, the cover image is a crucial part of the book as a whole.

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

Aubrey:I’ve never really thought about it in those terms. Usually, I just come up with an idea and see where it goes. So, I suppose I do a little bit of both, depending on the story.

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

Aubrey:I think you need to make the reader want to know more information. In a way, you should strive to make them curious about what is going on. I think that curiosity sells. If you can make them curious, you’ll make them want to keep reading.

TRC: Do you listen to music while writing? If so, does the style of music influence the storyline direction? Characters?

Aubrey:I can’t write while listening to music. As someone with a severe case of ADHD, I find it way too distracting. So, no music has ever influenced the storyline of my books or my characters.

TRC: What do you believe is the biggest misconception people have about authors?

Aubrey:That writing a book is easy. In a way it’s very easy, but writing a book well—which is key—is quite difficult. If it was an easy task, I think more people would do it.

TRC: What is something that few, if anyone, knows about you?

Aubrey:I can blow bubbles with my tongue! 😀

TRC: Who is your favorite author (living or dead)?

Aubrey:That’s a tough one. There are so many good writers out there. I’ve always enjoyed J.K. Rowling and Brandon Sanderson, but I’ll go with J.R.R. Tolkien because he influenced the entire genre in which I am writing.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Aubrey:Still trying to figure out my next project! Let’s wait and see, shall we?

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Aubrey:The only thing I can add is a big thank you for taking the time to conduct this interview. It makes my job easier.

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food Pizza 😀

Favorite Dessert Ben and Jerry’s

Favorite TV Show Smallville!

Last Movie You Saw Ad Astra

Dark or Milk Chocolate Milk

Secret Celebrity Crush Scarlett Johansson

Last Vacation Destination The Rocky Mountains

Do you have any pets? I have three cats and two dogs. 🙂

Last book you read The Emperor’s Soul by Brandon Sanderson

TRC: Thank you Aubrey for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on the release of Andre, the Kingslayer. We wish you all the best.

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Never Trust a Rockstar by Sarah Darlington-Review & Giveaway Tour

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Never Trust a Rockstar by Sarah Darlington-Review & Giveaway Tour

$0.99 or *FREE* in Kindle Unlimited.

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date  November 5, 2019

WIN A DATE WITH A HOT ROCKSTAR?
Yes, please. Sign me up.

Emma has always been obsessed with Ollie Mills of the southern rock band, Sunset Revival. She follows his every move on Twitter, likes all his posts on Instagram, and stalks his page on Facebook. So when there’s a contest to win a date with the sexy-as-sin, bad-boy rockstar, of course she enters.

It’s a one in a million chance.

Caleb Mills has always been unlucky in love. From the girl who broke his heart, to every one-night stand in between, the lead singer of Sunset Revival barely feels anything anymore. He’s focused on his music and nothing more. Until he sees Emma, in a blue dress, on a hot night in Nashville. She’s meant to be his brother’s date, but the moment his eyes connect with hers he wants this beautiful girl all for himself.

Caleb knows, it will only take Ollie a minute to screw things up. And he’ll be there waiting to win this girl’s heart the moment he does. But can any girl, ever, really trust a rockstar?

*NEVER TRUST A ROCKSTAR is a standalone with a HEA. It can be read as a standalone or as the first book in Sarah Darlington’s NEVER TRUST Series. Look for other books in the series, each available for preorder now.

NEVER TRUST READING ORDER
1. Never Trust a Rockstar
2. Never Kiss a Rockstar
3. Never Love a Rockstar
4. Never Leave a Rockstar

••••••••••••

REVIEW:NEVER TRUST A ROCKSTAR is the first instalment in Sarah Darlington’s contemporary year, adult ROCKSTARS IN KILL DEVIL HILLS rock romance series focusing on the members of the rock band Sunset Revival. This is lead singer Caleb Mills, and waitress Emma Winchester’s story line.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Caleb and Emma) NEVER TRUST A ROCKSTAR follows the building relationship between Caleb Mills and Emma Winchester. Emma Winchester was obsessed with rockstar Ollie Mills, and was overwhelmed when she discovered that she had won a contest to meet Ollie Mills but Emma’s fantasies about Ollie came to a crashing halt when Ollie showed his true colors. Desperate to get away, Emma will find herself on the run with Caleb Mills, Ollie’s brother, and the man with whom Emma would fall in love. What ensues is the slow building romance and relationship between Emma and Caleb, and the potential fall-out as Caleb’s past comes looking for a second chance, and Emma refuses to stand in the way.

Emma Winchester’s obsession with Ollie Mills was borderline stalkerish and out of control but having met Caleb, Emma quickly lost her heart to a man she barely knows. Caleb despises his brother’s treatment of women, and our story line heroine, and is willing to step up and be the man Emma needs and wants, but there is someone else standing in the way, and Caleb refuses to cross the line.

The relationship between Caleb and Emma is one of immediate attraction but Emma’s personal life is slowly spiralling out of control. From her mother’s illness to the other man in her life, Emma struggles between head and heart knowing that not all is as it appears to be. The $ex scenes are passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to the members of Sunset Revival: Caleb’s brothers Ollie and Luke, as well as their cousin Dani; Emma’s mother Bonne, and her aunt Luce.

NEVER TRUST A ROCKSTAR is a story of family, friendships, struggle and love. The premise is heartbreaking, emotional and engaging; the romance is seductive; the characters are colorful, flirty, impassioned and fun. NEVER TRUST A ROCKSTAR is a wonderful introduction to Sarah Darlington’s Rockstars in Kill Devil Hills .

Copy supplied for reiew

Reviewed by Sandy

Sarah Darlington was born in Colorado and grew up all over the United States. She and her family call Virginia home these days. The best word to describe Sarah is ‘creative.’ She’s passionate about designing, crafting, and photography. But most of all… she loves to write. Her creative bone and OCD personality mix well.

Her romance books are sexy and heart-gripping at their core, guaranteed to make you swoon. Any of them can be read as a stand-alone, but all are connected within the same world.

Find Sarah Online:

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

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

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Leave Me Breathless by Jodi Ellen Malpas-Review & Excerpt Tour

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Leave Me Breathless by Jodi Ellen Malpas-Review & Excerpt Tour

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

Add to Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2ld9xIR

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 5, 2019

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the This Man series comes a sexy and emotional follow up to her wildly popular standalone romance The Protector.

Ryan Willis has spent years in the protection business, a job that requires constant vigilance and quick thinking. His only chance to truly relax is at his secluded cabin in a small town where there are never any surprises. So when Ryan returns after an assignment and encounters a beautiful stranger, he isn’t only surprised, he’s also instantly intrigued.

Hannah Bright is a breath of fresh air, and Ryan is soon completely consumed, unable to stop from falling for her. As the two grow closer, his instinct tells him something is amiss. Yet nothing could prepare him for what he discovers when he starts digging into her past.

Hannah spends her days painting, running her arts and crafts store…and hiding too many secrets. It’s why she won’t let the ruggedly handsome bodyguard get too close. But their chemistry is undeniable, and Hannah quickly finds herself caught up in a whirlwind romance with Ryan. He is peace personified, a balm to her battered soul. Yet the gorgeous, captivating man who has swept Hannah off her feet doesn’t even know who she really is. And the moment he finds out, both their lives are at risk.

•••••••

REVIEW:LEAVE ME BREATHLESS by Jodi Ellen Malpas is a contemporary, adult, stand alone, romantic suspense story focusing on former MI5 agent, thirty-nine year old single father Ryan Willis, and thirty-three year old, artist Hannah Bright. LEAVE ME BREATHLESS is the follow up story line to the author’s previous release THE PROTECTOR.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Ryan and Hannah) LEAVE ME BREATHLESS follows the building relationship between former MI5 agent, thirty-nine year old, single father Ryan Willis, and thirty-three year old, artist Hannah Bright. Ten years earlier Ryan Willis left the MI5, and began working private security only to walk away following his latest assignment. Tired and hoping for some R&R, Ryan returns to his home in Hampton, England only to come face to face with his future when he accidentally runs her off the road. Enter artist Hannah Bright, and the woman with whom Ryan will fall in love. What ensues is the building relationship between Hannah and Ryan, and the potential fall-out when Hannah’s past comes back hoping to destroy it all.

Hannah Bright is on the run, trying to stay one step ahead of her past but a past that will do anything to end our heroine’s life. Meeting Ryan Willis finds Hannah with thoughts for the future, a future she knows could end very badly. Ryan Willis suspects Hannah isn’t who she claims to be, and therefore calls in a few favors, not realizing the trouble that follows in Hannah’s wake. Having fallen in love with our story line heroine, Ryan finds himself becoming lover and guardian in an effort to protect the woman that calls to his heart.

The relationship between Hannah and Ryan is one of immediate attraction but their accidental meeting places Ryan in a precarious predicament when he discovers his attraction to a woman that is all kinds of wrong. With his precocious daughter in tow, Ryan begins to fall for Hannah Bright, a woman who is hiding much more than Ryan could ever have imagined. 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 charavters including Ryan’s ten year old daughter Alexandra, and her mother Darcy, and her husband Casper: Hannah’s friend Molly; numerous townies, as well as the reintroduction of Jake Sharp and Cami Logan, and Jake and Ryan’s ‘boss’ Lucinda.

LEAVE ME BREATHLESS follows several paths including Ryan’s antagonistic relationship with his daughter’s mother. Darcy comes from wealthy breeding stock, and in this their daughter Alexandra is caught between two different worlds, miles apart. Hannah struggles with her past: the violence, the secrets and lies that threaten to destroy everything she has built but a past that refuses to accept the inevitable.

LEAVE ME BREATHLESS is a story of betrayal and lies; second chances and falling in love. The premise is engaging, impassioned and edgy; the characters are edgy and energetic; the romance is sensual and intense. LEAVE ME BREATHLESS is a spirited and intoxicating that will leave you wanting more.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of THE PROTECTOR

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

His pace doesn’t falter, and he enters the store, leaving the door open behind him. He grabs me with a gentle but possessive force, one hand on my nape, the other on my hip. And he looks me straight in the eye, breathes deeply.
Then he drops his mouth to mine and gives me the tenderest of kisses. No tongue. No moans. No movement anywhere, except for his lips gently traveling across mine. My useless hands remain by my sides. I forget my name, who I am. The world as I know it ceases to exist, and it is so welcomed. So . . . unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. It’s the smallest of gestures, yet it’s also colossal. Does Ryan know that? Does he realize what he’s doing? He’s making no attempt to deepen the kiss; his hands aren’t moving or exploring. He’s just dotting my lips with his, over and over, lazily and softly. It’s dizzying. And despite his apparent lack of desire to push it to the next level, there is passion pouring from him, the air surrounding us electric.
My mind blanks and I remain still in his hold, my eyes closed, my senses hijacked, as I savor the light pressure moving across my mouth. I can only ever remember my heart racing with fear and apprehension, yet since I’ve met Ryan it’s pounded with life and anticipation. Every near kiss we’ve had. Every moment of silence when we’re looking into each other’s eyes and the sexual tension between us ramps up another level.
Every time we’re in physical contact.
Every reason to avoid him is suddenly negated by my hunger for him. And then he breaks our kiss, breathing shallowly, as he keeps me in his hold. I stare at him, lost for words, and he drops one final, lingering peck on the corner of my mouth before he moves back. I quickly feel so very lost. His fingertip draws a delicate line down the bridge of my nose, slowing when he passes over the small bump. Then he turns on an inhale and leaves, pulling the door closed behind him. And I stare forward at nothing for a long time. I’ve been kissed into a trance. I move across my store to sit in the wicker chair in the corner, the pads of my fingers resting on my lips as I stare at the door. I hear his truck start. I hear it pull away. And then . . . silence.
He just kissed me, and then he just left. Seriously, what the fucking hell?
He said nothing.
But everything I needed to hear.
And now I’m left alone with just my screaming thoughts. Stay away from him. Run to him. I know what I want to do, but should I? Can I? I stand up and start to pace my shop, wringing my hands. I stop, feeling my lips, and then my nose. I look at the door. I hear his words.
I don’t ever want to scare you.
I’m not scared of him, not like that. I’m scared because he leaves me completely breathless 


 

About the author

Jodi Ellen MalpasBritish talent Jodi Ellen Malpas sold hundreds of thousands of e-books of her passionately erotic trilogy This Man before landing a major US publishing deal and sailing straight to the top of the New York Times bestsellers chart in a few short months. Success quickly followed in the UK, with thousands of readers falling head-over-heels for the devastatingly handsome Lord of the Manor Jesse Ward and his feisty counterpart, Ava O’Shea, as all three books became major Sunday Timesbestsellers. This was followed by further success with her second series One Night, which introduced the irresistibly enigmatic M. 

Jodi was born and raised in the Midlands town of Northampton, England, where she lives with her two boys and a beagle. She is a self-professed daydreamer, a Converse and, mojito addict, and has a terrible weak spot for Alpha Males. For more information, visit Jodi online at: www.jodiellenmalpas.co.uk, or www.facebook.com/JodiEllenMalpas, or www.twitter.com/JodiEllenMalpas.

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Stealing Her (Covet #1) by Rachel Van Dyken-a review

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Stealing Her (Covet #1) by Rachel Van Dyken-a review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 5, 2019

My estranged twin brother, Julian, was always the wonder boy – and soon-to-be CEO of our ruthless father’s corporation. My mother and me? Left behind. Now, years after tearing our family apart, my father dares to ask “me” for a favor? Pretend to be Julian while he fights to survive a tragic accident. It can save the company. Nobody will be the wiser. It’ll be our secret.

I can play Dad’s favorite. I’ll do anything for Julian. And for my mother, who’ll want for nothing.

But this double life comes with a beauty of a hitch: my very real feelings for Julian’s fiancée, Isobel. Not only am I betraying Julian, I’m deceiving a woman I love. She doesn’t suspect a thing. As lies compound, lines are crossed and loyalties tested, all I can ask myself is. . .what have I done?

Because sooner or later something’s got to give. There’s no way I’m giving up Isobel. But once the truth is exposed, it might not be my choice at all.

•••••••••

REVIEW:STEALING HER is the first instalment in Rachel Van Dyken’s contemporary, adult COVET romance series. This is personal trainer Bridge Anderson Tennyson, and Isobel Cunningham’s story line.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Bridge and Isobel) STEALING HER follows the building relationship, predicated upon a lie, between personal trainer Bridge Anderson Tennyson, and Isobel Cunningham. At the age of fifteen, twins Bridge and Julian Tennyson were separated as a result of their parent’s divorce. Bridge had always promised Julian he would protect his brother but years of separation meant the two had become strangers until the fateful day when Bridge would be pulled back into his brother’s world. Having lived with his ailing mother, Bridge watched from the sidelines as his brother Julian excelled in the business of high finance, a business that was destroying Julian and the woman with whom he was about to marry. Enter Isobel Cunningham, and the woman with whom Bridge would fall in love. What ensues is the growing relationship and love between Bridge and Isobel, and the potential fall-out when the truth is revealed.

Bridge Tennyson had no idea what was about to happen in his well-ordered world. Having been abandoned by his father when his parents separated, Bridge is now commanded to pretend to be his brother Julian, in an effort to save Tennyson Financial, and the father he never knew. But things don’t go according to plan when Bridge falls in love with his brother’s fiancé, a woman who has suffered heart break and pain in the wake of Julian’s cheating and scandals. Isobel Cunningham struggled with the ‘new’ Julian Tennyson following a miraculous recovery from a near fatal motor vehicle accident but it wasn’t only the physical recovery but the change in personality that triggered something deep within our story line heroine. Little by little Isobel began to suspect that all was not right with the man she once loved, a man who was already stealing her heart.

The relationship between Isobel and Bridge is based upon a lie. Bridge must pretend to be his brother in order to help his brother, and his mother and her astronomical medical bills, but Bridge never expected to fall in love. Guilt will not be enough to push Isobel out of his life, but Bridge will make reparations including serving up his father, on the proverbial platter, in an effort to take down the once powerful Edward Tennyson. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to Bridge’s twin brother Julian Tennyson, their father Edward Tennyson, and their mother, as well as Julian’s PA Kelsey.

STEALING HER is a story of family dysfunction, power and control; a story of heart break and loss; of secrets, lies, love and happily ever after. The premise is entertaining and energetic; the romance is captivating and emotional: the characters are colorful and dynamic but I struggled with the missing backstory following the parents’ separation and divorce- I wish we saw some of the struggle and fallout of separating the once loving and close brothers.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

 

Follow: Website / Facebooks / Goodreads / Twitter /  Instagram

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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Dirty Letters by Vi Keeland and Penelope Ward-Review Tour

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Dirty Letters by Vi Keeland and Penelope Ward-Review Tour

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

Goodreads ➜ https://fave.co/35YQMes

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 5, 2019.

I’d never forgotten him—a man I’d yet to meet.

Griffin Quinn was my childhood pen pal, the British boy who couldn’t have been more different from me. Over the years, through hundreds of letters, we became best friends, sharing our deepest, darkest secrets and forming a connection I never thought could break.

Until one day it did.

Then, out of the blue, a new letter arrived. A scathing one—one with eight years of pent-up anger. I had no choice but to finally come clean as to why I stopped writing.

Griffin forgave me, and somehow we were able to rekindle our childhood connection. Only now we were adults, and that connection had grown to a spark. Our letters quickly went from fun to flirty to downright dirty, revealing our wildest fantasies. So it only made sense that we would take our relationship to the next level and see each other in person.

Only Griff didn’t want to meet. He asked that I trust him and said it was for the best. But I wanted more—more Griff, in the flesh—so I took a big chance and went looking for him. People have done crazier things for love.

But what I found could change everything.

••••••

REVIEW:DIRTY LETTERS by Vi Keeland and Penelope Ward is a contemporary, adult stand alone, erotic romance story line focusing on twenty five year old author Luca Ryan Vinetti and rockstar Griffin Quinn aka Cole Archer.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Luca and Griffin) DIRTY LETTERS follows the relationship between twenty five year old author Luca Ryan Vinetti and rockstar Cole Archer aka Griffin Quinn. Luca and Griffin have been pen pals since second grade, and embarked on a long-distance friendship ever since but eight years ago Luca’s life imploded and she all but disappeared from family and friends. Fast forward to present day wherein Luca’s father has died, and while cleaning up his apartment, she finds a letter from Griffin Quinn, a letter that forces Luca to re-engage with the past. Enter Griffin Quinn aka Cole Archer, and the man with who Luca will fall in love. What ensues is the long distance relationship and romance between Luca and Griffin, and the potential fall-out as Luca continues to struggle with the past.

Following the devastating loss of a friend, Luca Ryan battles a debilitating emotional disorder that prevents our heroine from living her life to the fullest but discovering there was still a connection between herself and Griffin, Luca along with her friend and confident Chester Maxwell, embarks on a cross country journey in an effort to officially introduce herself to the man that she loves. Griffin Quinn is a man on a mission when it comes to the girl he is unable to forget. As the British rockstar and musician known as Cole Archer, Griffins leads a lifestyle that would further aggravate our story line heroine but Griffin is desperate to pull Luca into his life, a life that will send Luca spiralling out of control.

The relationship between Luca and Griffin spans twenty years in the making. From seven year old pen pals to lovers, Luca and Griffin have secrets that have yet to be revealed, secrets that may affect the future, going forward. Griffin accepts that Luca struggles with a paralyzing and emotional disorder but our hero never expected to be pushed out of her life. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

The secondary and supporting characters are limited as the story line focuses on our leading couple. We are introduced to Dr. Chester Maxwell, Luca’s friend, confident and counsellor, a man who takes Luca under his wing, allowing her to test her love for a man she barely knows.

DIRTY LETTERS is a story of guilt and grief; tragedy, acceptance and love; a story of loss and heart break. The premise is emotional and captivating; the characters are colorful, dynamic, broken but healing; the romance is seductive and hot. Vi Keeland and Penelope Ward pull the reader into an impassioned, thought-provoking and tender love story between two people pulled apart by grief and despair.

Copy supplied for review 

Reviewed by Sandy

 

Penelope Ward is a New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author. She grew up in Boston with five older brothers and spent most of her twenties as a television news anchor, before switching to a more family-friendly career. She is the proud mother of a beautiful 11-year-old girl with autism and a 9-year-old boy. Penelope and her family reside in Rhode Island.

Facebook | Website | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest | Goodreads | Private Fan Group

••••••••

Vi Keeland is a native New Yorker with three children that occupy most of her free time, which she complains about often, but wouldn’t change for the world. She is an attorney and a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, & USA Today Best Selling author. Over the last three years, ten of her titles have appeared on the USA Today Bestseller lists and three on the New York Times Bestseller lists.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Pinterest

 

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Tacker (Arizona Vengeance 5) by Sawyer Bennett-Review Tour

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Tacker (Arizona Vengeance 5) by Sawyer Bennett-Review Tour

TACKER
Arizona Vengeance # 5
by Sawyer Bennett
Release Date: November 5, 2019
Gerne: adult, contemporary, erotic, hockey, romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 5, 2019

I am not okay.

Fifteen months ago, my life was turned upside down when the plane I was piloting went down. Injured and trapped in the wreckage, I had to watch my fiancée die a painfully slow death, which is something that can really mess with your head.

Since that day, I’ve had little desire to do much of anything. Except play hockey, that is. Because that is the one place where the bad memories are banished and I can escape my pain.

But off the ice, I’m spiraling out of control. Losing the grip on my life and putting myself and my career in danger. Now, thanks to a string of bad decisions, I’ve been ordered to complete therapy in order to stay on the team.

The problem? Nora Wayne, my beautiful and somewhat unconventional therapist. I can’t buy into the brand of happy clappy crap this woman is feeding me. What could she possibly understand about the type of loss that I’ve suffered? How does she know anything about finding happiness after losing the most important person in your life?

Turns out, I’ve got a lot to learn, and she’s just the person I need to break through those walls I’ve erected.

I am not okay.
But for the first time in a long time, I know that I will be.

••••••

REVIEW:TACKER is the fifth instalment in Sawyer Bennett’s contemporary, adult ARIZONA VENGEANCE hockey romance series focusing on the Arizona Vengeance hockey team. This is team captain Tacker Hall, and thirty-two year old, counsellor Nora Wayne’s story line. TACKER can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order as Tacker’s story slowly develops throughout the series.

NOTE: Some of the events in TACKER cross over with, and run parallel to some of the events in book four DAX.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Tacker and Nora) TACKER follows the building but forbidden relationship between Arizona Vengeance team captain Tacker Hall, and counsellor Nora Wayne. Fifteen months earlier Tacker Hall’s fiancé was killed in a plane crash, a plane in which Tacker was the pilot. Fast forward to present day wherein Tacker’s life is spiralling out of control, a spiral of which he may never recover. Forced into mandatory counselling or consider himself no longer a member of the team Tacker Hall comes face to face with his future in the guise of Nora Wayne, a counsellor who owns and runs a healing ranch where human and horses learn to get along. What ensues is the building but forbidden relationship between Nora and Tacker as our couple learn to let go of the past, a past that is equally traumatic for our story line heroine.

Tacker Hall suffers with the remorse of survivor’s guilt, and the ongoing belief he was responsible for the death of his beloved fiance. Unable to let go, Tacker’s remorse continues to affect his life both on and off of the ice, so much so that Tacker considers ending it all. Meeting Nora Wayne sparks something deep within our story line hero something he hasn’t felt for a very long time. Nora Wayne knows the heart break of survivor’s remorse more so than anyone could have imagined but our heroine uses her experience to empathize with those who are struggling with their own hurt and unimaginable shame. Meeting Tacker Hall pulls Nora out of her comfort zone, allowing her to consider a future with the man with whom she will fall in love.

The relationship between Tacker and Nora is one of immediate attraction but Nora was hired by the Arizona Vengeance in an effort to pull Tacker out of his depression otherwise Tacker’s career was on the blocks. Nora knows to cross the line with Tacker could mean professional misconduct but Tacker takes the extra step in an effort to protect Nora from their palpable sexual attraction. The $ex scenes are passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are reintroduced to the teammates, significant and staff of the Arizona Vengeance: Bishop and Brooke, Erik and Blue, Legend and Pepper, Dax and Regan Coach Claude, and team owner Dominik Carlson, newest team member and Tacker’s best friend Aaron Wylde, as well as ranch hand Raul Vargas. The team dynamic is changing with the influx of significant others, a dynamic that brings the teammates closer together.

TACKER is a story of heartache, grief, tragedy and recovery; second chances and letting go. The premise is emotional, inviting and engaging; the characters are broken, colorful, energetic but on the mend; the romance is seductive and intimate. TACKER is a raw and gritty look at the power of guilt, and the steps to bring grievers back into the light.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Bishop
Erik
Legend
Dax

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Since the release of her debut contemporary romance novel, Off Sides, in January 2013, Sawyer Bennett has released more than 30 books and has been featured on both the USA Today and New York Times bestseller lists on multiple occasions.

A reformed trial lawyer from North Carolina, Sawyer uses real life experience to create relatable, sexy stories that appeal to a wide array of readers. From new adult to erotic contemporary romance, Sawyer writes something for just about everyone.

Sawyer likes her Bloody Marys strong, her martinis dirty, and her heroes a combination of the two. When not bringing fictional romance to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to a very active toddler, as well as full-time servant to two adorably naughty dogs. She believes in the good of others, and that a bad day can be cured with a great work-out, cake, or a combination of the two.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | BOOKBUB | AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE | INSTAGRAM

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Leopard’s Wrath (Leopards #11) by Christine Feehan-Review & Giveaway

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Leopard’s Wrath (Leopards #11) by Christine Feehan-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

LEOPARD’S WRATH
Leopard Series #11
by Christine Feehan
Release Date: November 5, 2019
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, paranormal, romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 5, 2019

He’s a man used to getting what he wants, but she’s not the type of woman to take things lying down….

Born into a life of crime, Mitya Amurov has had a hard life, and his leopard has developed into a feral beast to protect him. It’s constantly trying to claw its way to the surface—until a chance encounter with a stranger instantly calms the predator inside him. While Mitya wants Ania desperately, it’s only a matter of time before his past catches up with him, and he’d rather die than put her in danger. But Ania is dealing with dangers of her own….

Considering her family’s history, Ania Dover should know better than to get mixed up with a criminal like Mitya, but she just can’t stay away. Something wild in her responds to his presence. A need so strong it scares her. But she’s not sure she can accept what he’s offering. Ania has always been an independent woman, and Mitya expects to be obeyed in all things.

Even with her body calling out for his, Ania won’t let anything stop her from settling a deadly score years in the making—not even the man who wants to claim her as his mate.

•••••••••

REVIEW:LEOPARD’S WRATH is the eleventh instalment in Christine Feehan’s contemporary, adult LEOPARDS paranormal, erotic, romance series focusing on a group of Leopard shifters. This is Russian leopard shifter and businessman Mitya Amurov, and Anja Dover’s story line. LEOPARD’S WRATH can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary but I recommend reading the series in order for backstory, history and cohesion.

NOTE: LEOPARD’S WRATH contains scenes of graphic violence and implied abuse, including memories and retelling of events as well as spanking and discipline, that may not be suitable for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Ania and Mitya) LEOPARD’S WRATH follows the building relationship between Russian leopard shifter Mitya Amurov, and Anja Dover. MItya Amurov found Ania Dover stranded on the side of the road not realizing that Ania was his intended mate, a female leopard shifter who lived on the neighboring estate. About to enter into the Han Vol Dan, the female leopard shifter’s first fertile period, Ania is caught unaware as she struggles with her father’s declining health, and staying one step ahead of the people who have targeted her and her family for execution. But all is not well in the world of the Leopard shifter, as more than one family has been targeted by someone intent on destroying them all. What ensues is the building relationship between Ania and Mitya, and the potential fall-out as secrets and lies, and the struggle for power threaten everyone in Ania and Mitya’s circles.

Ania Dover comes from a long line of leopard shifters who have worked on the periphery of organized crime. A car enthusiast and lover of speed, Ania is more than capable of holding her own when it comes to getting out of harm’s way but Ania is unprepared for the emotional and physical needs of her leopard, and finds herself in situations where she has very little control. Mitya Amurov never thought he would find someone to love especially in the wake of his violent lifestyle and the abuse he suffered as a child but meeting Ania Dover meant the possibility of his own happily ever after if not for the threats against his life by the leopard that is his sire.

The relationship between Ania and Mitya is one of immediate attraction fated by DNA, need and the Han Vol Dan. Mitya Amurov, like all male leopard shifters, is a possessive and controlling man, and is aware that Ania is about to enter into her time of need, a time when every male shifter will target the woman he loves, to make her their own. Ania will become the recipient of many offers as she approaches the Han Vol Dan. Ania struggles with her attraction to Mitya, a man she knows to be dangerous and dark but her father’s rapid decline in health meant Mitya is the man to step up and help the dying shifter in his final hours. The $ex scenes are passionate, erotic, and intense. There are some scenes of spanking and discipline .

Once again, there is a large ensemble cast of strong secondary and supporting characters including Mitya’s cousins and their mates: Evangeline and Fyodor Amurov (Leopard’s Blood #8), Timur and Ashe Amurov (Leopard’s Run #10), as well as Jake Bannaconni, Drake Donovan, Joshua Tegre, Elijah Lospostos, Eli Perez, Mitya’s right hand man Sevastyan, and shifters Vikenti and Zinoviy, Miron, Kiriil and Matvei, Mitya’s father Lazar; Ania’s father Antosha, as well as numerous leopard shifters from various crime families.

LEOPARD’S WRATH is a story of family, betrayal, power and revenge; a story of grief, loss, threats and control. The action packed premise is entertaining, engaging and emotional; the characters are colorful, energetic and dynamic; the romance is spicy, sensual and hot. LEOPARD’S WRATH and the Leopard Series will open up your imagination to the wonders of the paranormal.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Wild Rain
Burning Wild
Wild Fire
Savage Nature
Leopard’s Prey
Cat’s Lair
Wild Cat
Leopard’s Fury
Leopard’s Blood
Leopard’s Run
Leopard’s Wrath

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Christine Feehan is a #1 New York Times bestselling author multiple times over with her portfolio including over 70 published novels, including five series; Dark Series, Ghostwalker Series, Leopard Series, Drake Sisters Series, the Sisters of the Heart Series and Torpedo Ink. All of her series have hit the #1 spot on the New York Times bestselling list as well. Her debut novel Dark Prince received 3 of the 9 Paranormal Excellence Awards in Romantic Literature (PEARL) in 1999. Since then she has been published by various publishing houses including Leisure Books, Pocket Books, and currently is writing for Berkley/Jove. She also has earned 7 more PEARL awards since Dark Prince.

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The Reading Cafe and Christine’s Feehan’s publisher is graciously offering a paper copy of LEOPARD’S WRATH to ONE lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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

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9. Giveaway runs from November 5-10, 2019

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SPUN OUT (Blacktop Cowboys #10) by Lorelei James-Review Tour

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SPUN OUT (Blacktop Cowboys #10) by Lorelei James-Review Tour

SPUN OUT
Blacktop Cowboys #10
by Lorelei James
Release Date: November 5, 2019
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 5, 2019

Years in the Army equipped Bailey Masterson for many things: target shooting, rappelling off cliffs, dodging grenades. She’s lived through horrors that still give her nightmares. But nothing in Bailey’s life-or-death training prepared her for caring for the tiny terror that is five-year-old Olivia Hale. Or how to control her raging attraction to Olivia’s father, Streeter, the rugged, green-eyed cattle rancher who undermines her every move even when he stars in her dreams.

Streeter Hale has room for only two things in his life: his daughter and his job. He doesn’t date. He doesn’t get attached. Not anymore. So not only is Streeter stunned by Olivia’s improved behavior after just a few days with Bailey, he’s downright floored by his immediate attraction to the woman. But with secrets in her eyes and a body that doesn’t quit, Streeter begins to worry that Bailey Masterson might just be the one woman to heal his fractured family and broken heart.

One thing’s for sure–these two wrecked souls are spinning out of control as they desperately try not to fall in love…

••••••••••••

REVIEW: SPUN OUT is the tenth instalment in Lorelei James’ contemporary, adult BLACKTOP COWBOYS erotic, romance series. This is thirty-six year old Split Rock Ranch foreman, widower and single father Streeter Hale, and thirty year old, US Army soldier Sgt. Bailey Masterson’s story line. SPUN OUT can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Bailey is Liberty Masteron’s sister (Hillbilly Rockstar#6) and Streeter is Tobin Hale’s brother (Hang Tough #8).

NOTE: The story line focuses on issues of depression and suicide that may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Bailey and Streeter) SPUN OUT follows the building relationship between thirty-six year old ranch foreman Streeter Hale, and thirty year old, US Army soldier Sgt. Bailey Masterson. On leave from the army, Sgt. Bailey Masterson finds herself struggling to fit in upon her return home. Volunteering to help run her sister’s struggling clothing store (Wild West Clothiers), and look after her sister’s rambunctious children, Bailey is asked if she would like to take over the Split Rock Ranch and Resort summer day camp but our heroine offers to run a military style boot camp instead. Enter Streeter Hale, whose five year old daughter is among the children about to come under the command of Sgt. Bailey Masterson. What ensues is the building relationship and romance between Streeter and Bailey, and the potential fall-out as Bailey keeps too many secrets from the man with whom she will fall in love.

Streeter Hale is a widower raising his five year old daughter, a young child with emotional issues that are often uncontrolled. Meeting Bailey Masterson finds Streeter thinking about stepping out of his comfort zone, something he hasn’t done in a very long time. Bailey Masterson struggles with her attraction to Streeter Hale knowing her time at Split Rock Ranch comes with an expiry date but Bailey is keeping secrets from family and friends, secrets she believes are going to affect her relationship with our story line hero.

The relationship between Bailey and Streeter is one of immediate attraction but Streeter struggles with work and home life, leaving very little time for anything else. Agreeing to ‘casually’ date, Bailey offers a no-strings attached relationship, a relationship that is about to turn into something more. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate but I struggle with the author’s use of a certain four-letter word that I dislike in my romance story lines.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful secondary and supporting characters including Streeter’s five year old daughter Olivia; Streeter’s brother Tobin and his wife Jade (Hang Tough); Streeter’s former in-laws, several nieces and nephews on both sides of the relationship; Bailey’s sister Harper and her husband Bran (Saddled and Spurred #2), Renner and Tierney Jackson plus Janie and Abe (owners of Split Rock Ranch)and a large number of ranch hands.

SPUN OUT is a story of grief and acceptance; depression and desperation; struggle, second chances, friendship, romance and love. The premise is engaging, heart breaking, and captivating; the characters are broken, coping, colorful and energetic; the romance is seductive and intense. SPUN OUT focuses on the affects of depression and suicide on those struggling to cope but also in the aftermath and on those left behind to move forward after a devastating loss.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

Lorelei James is the New York Times and USA TodayBestselling Author of contemporary erotic western romances set in the modern day Wild West and also contemporary erotic romances. Lorelei’s books have been nominated for and won the Romantic Times Reviewer’s choice Award, as well as the CAPA Award. Lorelei lives in western South Dakota with her family…and a whole closet full of cow girl boots.

From Lorelei: “Why do I have a particular fondness for all things western? Well, I’m a fourth generation South Dakotan, living in the Black Hills, which is chock-full of interesting characters, including cowboys, Indians, ranchers, and bikers. The geographical diversity of the surrounding area showcases mountains, plains, and badlands. Living in and writing about rural settings gives me a unique perspective, especially since I’m not writing historical westerns. Through my fictional world, I can show the ideals and the cowboy way of life are still very much alive.”

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Lorelei James Publisher  (Penguin Random House) is offering a paper copy of SPUN OUT to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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

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

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Please follow Lorelei James on Facebook.

4. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

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8. Giveaway is open to USA only

9. Giveaway runs from November 4 to 9, 2019

 

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