Tag Archives: New Release Reviews 2021

Conceal (Vindicated 5) by KE Osborn & Addison Jane-Review Tour

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Conceal (The Vindicated Series 5) by KE Osborn & Addison Jane-Review Tour

 

 

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

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Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3ISJFqG

ABOUT THE BOOK:Release Date March 4, 2022

Confused, enraged, ruined—that’s how I felt when she left that day, and it took every ounce of strength I had not to go after her.

Our connection was a slow burn.

And it had begun to rage.

Until she blew out of town, with no warning, completely extinguishing the flames.

Now she’s here, standing on the doorstep, holding a piece of me I never knew existed. I should be angry. I should be hurt. But there’s no time for that. Threats have been made, and now it’s up to my team and me to bring down the almost untouchable elite coming after them.

I’ve already lost enough time, and I’ll protect them with my life before I go another day without the now most important parts of my world.

Our fire is stronger than before.

And they’re coming for my family.

But we’ll use it to burn them to the ground.

••••••

REVIEW:CONCEAL is the fifth instalment in the contemporary, adult THE VINDICATED erotic, romantic suspense series co-authored by Addison Jane and KE Osborn. This is dance instructor Molly , and special ops agent Noah’s story line. CONCEAL can be read as a stand alone but for back story and cohesion I recommend reading the series in order as many previous events and characters are often referenced, and there is some important information missing about the history between everyone and the group for which they work.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Noah and Molly) with a couple of final chapters from Tanner and Mayor Marks, CONCEAL follows the rebuilding romance and relationship between dance instructor and single mother Molly, and special ops agent Noah. Approximately one year earlier, Molly walked away from the man that she loved, carrying a secret she thought she would never reveal but her life in New York as a dance instructor was about to take disastrous turn when our heroine witnesses something she should have never seen, threatening her life in the process. With a target on her back and her proverbial tail tucked between her legs, Molly goes to Washington DC in search of the one man she is hoping will protect them both. Enter special ops agent Noah, and the man Molly has never stopped loving. As Molly’s secrets rip at our hero’s heart, a dirty politician is about to get away with murder. What ensues is the second chance romance and relationship between Noah and Molly, and the potential fall-out as a man with an agenda sets his sights on our story line heroine.

Noah is a member of SO7, a division of The Agency, and as such, their team does not exist but when trouble follows Molly on her return trip home, Noah and the team begin an investigation of their own, only to discover that political corruption goes all the way to the top. Molly has never stopped loving our story line hero but Molly never wanted to pull Noah away from what he loves. Coming home meant facing all of her demons, and the judgemental attitudes of people she once called family and friends.

The relationship between Molly and Noah is a second chance romance; a rekindling relationship in which Molly’s secrets are about to destroy our story line her. Noah knows that he must step up and take responsibility for what happened in the past but responsibility now includes a family that continues to grow. 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, energetic and charismatic secondary and supporting characters including all of Noah’s SO7 teammates-Lily and Kace, Luca and Everly, Axel and Kenzi, team leader Jack, Tanner, and Blair, as well as several members of the Malice MC including club president Ruin, Brix, Jinx and Falcon. We are introduced to New York Mayor Marks, his daughter Harper, and Noah’s brother Chad, their parents Caroline and Tom, and Noah’s ex Annamae.

The world building continues to focus on the camaraderie and friendships between the members of The Agency and SO7. As I have not read the first couple of books in the series, there is some confusion as to the history and backstory of the organization(s) SO7, and The Agency and how the groups are all interconnected. Many authors I have read and continue to read, add a series synopsis, or some backstory in each instalment, especially for new readers who may be lost when jumping onto the bandwagon in the middle of the series. Here’s hoping Addison and KE ease my mind in future instalments 😉

CONCEAL is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, murder and mayhem, forgiveness and love. The premise is dramatic, intriguing, and captivating; the romance is impassioned and seductive; the characters are dynamic, intense and determined.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of PERCEIVE

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

KE OSBORN

With a flair for all things creative, International Bestselling Author K E Osborn, is drawn to the written word. Exciting worlds and characters flow through her veins, coming to life on the page as she laughs, cries, and becomes enveloped in the storyline right along with you. She’s entirely at home when writing sassy heroines and alpha males that rise from the ashes of their pasts.

K E Osborn comforts herself with tea and Netflix, after all, who doesn’t love a good binge?

Turn lust into love at www.keosbornauthor.com

AUTHOR LINKS

Email: kesosborn.author@hotmail.com
Website: http://www.keosbornauthor.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keosbornauthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/KEOsbornAuthor
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KEOsborn
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/KEOsbornAuthor
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/k-e-osborn
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/K-E-Osborn/e/B00F6RK2HS
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/beIMc1

ADDISON JANE

BOOKBUB – https://www.bookbub.com/authors/addison-jane
AMAZON – https://www.amazon.com/Addison-Jane/e/B01CV33BWC/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2?qid=1475711584&sr=1-2
TWITTER – http://twitter.com/AddisonJaneNZ
EMAIL – Addisonjaneauthor@gmail.com
FACEBOOK – https://www.facebook.com/Addisonjaneauthor

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Dreaming of a Devilish Highlander by Vonda Sinclair-Interview & Giveaway

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Dreaming of a Devilish Highlander (Highlander Shifters 1) by Vonda Sinclair-Review, Interview & Giveaway

 

DREAMING OF A DEVILISH HIGHLANDER
Highland Shifters #1
by Vonda Sinclair
Release Date: February 9, 2022
Genre: adult, historical, Highlander, paranormal, romance

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

A devilish Highlander cursed to change form…

After defending himself in an ambush and defeating his attacker, Gavin MacTavish finds himself cursed by a woman of the enemy clan. Lady Wilona MacRae is a witch of the dark arts and the mother of his slain foe. Ensnared in the curse, Gavin spontaneously transforms into a hawk at dawn each day, then shifts back into a man at sunset. Devastated that his father has been struck with madness because of the curse, Gavin has no choice but to become chief of a dwindling clan. Fearing him as if he were the devil himself, most have fled.

A wayward lass from the future…

When Dani MacRae, a 21st century English lit professor, is given an ancient family heirloom—a brooch—she begins having sensual dreams of a gorgeous Highlander. These spellbinding dreams threaten to take over her life. But when she holds a 400-year-old claymore at a Highland games event, she’s stunned to find herself thrust back in time to 1630 Scotland, into the bedchamber of the intriguing man who invaded her dreams.

A profound love…

After kissing the bonny, unusual lass, Gavin knows she’s the only woman for him, the woman his eccentric father insists he must marry to destroy the curse. But can Gavin conceal from her what he becomes during the daytime? Surely she will reject him and leave if she finds out.

In an effort to help his ill father and his clan, Dani reluctantly agrees to marry Gavin… at least until she can find his enchanted sword, which could return her to the future. Being ripped from her beloved modern day relatives and successful career, Dani is unsure whether she can sacrifice everything for Gavin. That is… until she falls hard for him.

Once Lady MacRae learns Dani is attempting to break her evil spell, she uses any means possible to thwart the union. Can Gavin and Dani seize the magnificent love that will shatter darkness, banish evil, and restore their good fortune?

••••••••

REVIEW: Historical Romance with a hint of magic and I’m there.

This book did remind me a little of Outlander and The Discovery of Witches (with the time travel) but also a film that I love (Ladyhawke) but that’s where the similarities end.

A book I couldn’t put down once I started, really well thought out and written. Descriptions of the scenery had me easily imagining myself walking alongside Gavin and Dani. Loved the Scottish dialect and its usage in the book (some authors don’t use it correctly, and for me spoils the read.)

Gavin is the Laird of his small clan, he became the Laird after his father became mad after a curse settles on his clan! A lot of the villagers left (frightened off) so Gavin is working hard to restore both his name and reputation. Gavin is such a solid character, he’s frightened and angry at the curse, but he’s trying to live his life as normally as he can (a little hard when you turn into a hawk as the sun rises!)

Dani is our time travelling damsel. But the only distress she had was getting back to her own time, oh and avoiding marriage to Gavin! She’s an English literature professor from the 21st century, a no nonsense woman who had me in stitches with her wit and inner dialogue. Being thrown back in time would unsettle most people, and it certainly keeps Dani on her toes.

Lady MacRae is the villain in this book, casting spells and doing her best to keep the marriage from happening. She cast the curse after Gavin. I did feel a little sorry for her, and at times I wanted her to repent and change (if she does that you’ll need to read the book) but we also need a good villain to boo and hiss at, and Wilona more than adequately fit that remit.

Reading about this pair did have me chuckling as you watch them skirt around their feelings for one another. Can Gavin tell Dani about his predicament without scaring her away? Will Dani want to stay in a world that has no wifi, no lighting and no running hot water? Can the pair break the curse? Can they live as man and wife, or will Dani be forced to live a half life with her”hawk” husband?

This is the first book in a new series, and although I’ve not read this author or any of her previous books, I’m adding this series to my “watch for” list.

? Reviewed by Julie B

Copy supplied for review

TRC:  Hi Vonda and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the release of DREAMING OF A DEVILISH HIGHLANDER.

<Vonda Sinclair: Thanks so much! It’s an honor to be featured on your site.

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

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

Vonda Sinclair: I live in beautiful North Carolina but my favorite place to travel is bonny Scotland. I haven’t visited since 2017, so I’m really starting to miss it. Writing stories set in Scotland is always a great joy. My hobbies include gardening and amateur photography.

TRC:  Who or what influenced your career in writing?

Vonda Sinclair: Several years ago, before I started writing romance, I was addicted to reading it. I loved all types… historical, paranormal, contemporary, etc. One day I thought… I wonder if I could create characters and write a story. Writing romance novels started as an experiment but became a huge part of my life and a wonderful career. I became obsessed with words and how they sound together, how they evoke images and emotions. I love to create a story world full of characters and experiences for readers.

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

Vonda Sinclair: I experienced a lot of stress in 2020 and 2021 for obvious reasons, as I’m sure everyone has. The stress, lack of focus, and difficulty concentrating hampered my creativity and inspiration. The book took much longer than it should have to complete. I hope I can keep going with a good momentum. In addition, I’m writing part time now instead of full time due to other responsibilities.

TRC:  Would you please tell us something about the premise of DREAMING OF A DEVILISH HIGHLANDER?

Vonda Sinclair: The basic premise is can true love break a curse? Most of my stories are based on the healing power of love.

When Gavin MacTavish and his party are attacked in the forest on the way home, they’re forced to defend themselves or die. Unfortunately, the man Gavin kills is the son of a witch. Literally. She places curses on Gavin and his two friends. Gavin’s life becomes a living hell. Help comes in the form of a modern day woman. Dani has a wonderful career as a professor and a good life, but she cannot find love until she falls into the past. They complement and contrast each other in many ways. This story has a lot of steam and humor.

TRC: What kind of research/plotting did you do, and how long did you spend researching /plotting before beginning DREAMING OF A DEVILISH HIGHLANDER?

Vonda Sinclair:  I’m always researching when I write. I like to get specific about which foods were eaten in Scotland in the early 1600s. When the characters move about the castles, details of what they’re seeing and experiencing are important. For instance, how the windows worked, how the door locks operated. What does it feel like and smell like in a castle dungeon? I’ve been fortunate to have explored several Scottish castles, both ruins and inhabited ones. This research has been invaluable for getting the details right. When I write rough draft, I don’t always include all the specifics. I’ll research the exact detail I need on later drafts. It helps that I’ve written several books set between 1618 and 1630. A lot of it sticks in my mind, and I might only have to go back and double check something. For instance, sending a missive back then required several more steps than writing a letter or email today. Everything was done differently four-hundred years ago, and I like to give readers a sense of what that was like.

TRC: How many books do you have planned for the series?

Vonda Sinclair: I plan to do three books, stories about Gavin, Torr, and Brodie. Of course, I could come up with a creative excuse to add more. One of my other series, Highland Adventure, has ten books so far and I’m not finished with the series. Secondary characters keep demanding their own stories which is wonderful fun.

TRC: Believability is an important factor in writing story lines especially stories with a paranormal premise-readers like to think ‘what if?’. How do you keep the story line believable? Where do you think some author’s fail?

Vonda Sinclair: For me, believability comes from specific details, which ties into research. You have to make the story feel real by inserting the reader into the story, making them experience every aspect of the world you’ve created. Sensory details are important and so are historical setting details. Scotland has changeable, tempestuous weather, and I like to include it when I can. I would include emotions here too. Help the reader to feel exactly what the character is feeling. For paranormal elements, show how and why something so farfetched is really possible. In other words, the explanation is shown in vivid detail. In any type of story, the author has to convince the reader to suspend disbelief. I suppose this is done via the author’s craft, skill, experience, intuition, creativity, etc.

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?

Vonda Sinclair: Yes, it does for me. I’m sure a lot of readers feel the same way. Most people ignore the old adage of don’t judge a book by its cover.

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

Vonda Sinclair: I would say it’s a little of both in my case. Sometimes a scene will come to me almost fully formed. Other times, I’ll brainstorm on paper… maybe this could happen or maybe that could happen. This will spur other ideas until something gels.

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?

Vonda Sinclair: As I mentioned earlier, I feel it has to do with the details. Emotions are one of the trickier parts of writing. If it doesn’t come naturally to the writer, they’ll need to learn the skill through reading books, noticing how great writers do it, taking workshops and practicing. This is especially important in romance because it’s an emotional genre. Some new writers tell emotion (She was sad.) instead of making the reader cry. The best writers make the readers bite their nails, cry, laugh, yell, etc. You really want to get the reader involved in the story. Connected to this is creating characters that readers love. If readers care about your characters, they’re going to be invested in their emotions.

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

Vonda Sinclair: I sometimes listen to Celtic instrumental music or music designed for concentration and focus. I don’t want to listen to distracting music or singing. It has to fit the mood of the story, and I keep it at a low volume.

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

Vonda Sinclair: If their books are flamboyant and over the top, then the author will be too. A lot of us are introverts. Or maybe they think we are just like our characters. (We’re not. lol)

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

Vonda Sinclair: Most readers don’t know I have a BS in psychology and a minor in studio art. I studied French for four years. Believe it or not, these do tie into my books. lol

TRC: Who or what influenced your path towards a young adult, paranormal story line.

Vonda Sinclair: I wanted a short break from historical romance. Sometimes it’s fun and refreshing to work on something unusual like shapeshifters and time travel.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Vonda Sinclair: The second story in this series, the one about Gavin’s friend Torr. I haven’t finalized the title yet.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Vonda Sinclair: I just want to say thank you for this interview. It has been fun!

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food
I love a lot of foods, but since I’m currently doing low-carb, I’ll say bacon. lol

Favorite Dessert
Cheesecake

Favorite TV Show
Downton Abbey

Last Movie You Saw
Downton Abbey (See a pattern here?)

Dark or Milk Chocolate
Either

Secret Celebrity Crush
Jason Momoa

Last Vacation Destination
Scotland

Do you have any pets?
Yes, cats.

Last book you read
I listened to an audiobook about meditation by Emily Fletcher.

TRC: Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on the release of DREAMING OF A DEVLISH HIGHLANDER. We wish you all the best.

Vonda Sinclair: Thanks so much!!

Vonda Sinclair is graciously offering a paper copy of DREAMING OF A DEVILISH HIGHLANDER to ONE (1) lucky commentator 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 Vonda Sinclair on Facebook

4. Please FOLLOW Vonda Sinclair on Twitter

5. Please FOLLOW The Reading Cafe on FACEBOOK .

6. FOLLOW The Reading Cafe on Twitter for an additional entry.

7. Please FOLLOW The Reading Cafe on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

8. Please follow The Reading Cafe on Tumblr

9. Giveaway open to USA and CANADA only

10. Giveaway runs from March 12-17, 2022

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Ruthless Redemption (Hunting Duet 2) by Eden Summers-Review Tour

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Ruthless Redemption (Hunting Duet 2) by Eden Summers-Review Tour

 

 

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 10, 2022

They say love hurts—but they never mentioned it could make you bleed.

His deceit was like wine.
I drank it in. Let it intoxicate me.
But he’s not the man I fell for.
Matthew Langston is a lie.

I’d run from him if I could. I’d flee. If only he hadn’t turned my family against me.
Now, I have nothing. There’s no money, phone, or external support.
Only him, and his obsession with winning me back.

So I’ll use it to my advantage. I’ll use him.
Because he made a promise to help me get revenge on those we despise.
And once that’s over, so are we.

•••••

REVIEW:RUTHLESS REDEMPTION is the second instalment in Eden Summers’ contemporary, adult HUNTING dark, erotic, Mafia, romantic suspense duet-a spin off from the author’s HUNTER HER series. This is the continuing story of single mother Layla Torian, and businessman Matthew Langston’s story line. RUTHLESS REDEMPTION should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up immediately after the events of book one SEEKING VENGEANCE. I recommend reading the HUNTING HER series for back story and cohesion where Layla’s story begins.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Layla and Matthew) RUTHLESS REDEMPTION picks up immediately after the cliff hanger of SEEKING VENGEANCE in which Layla Torian discovers the true identity of the man with whom she had fallen in love, and the extent to which her extended family wishes she no longer existed. A virtual prisoner of the man she once loved, Layla struggles with her attraction to a man who all but destroyed her life. What ensues is the tempestuous relationship between Layla and Matthew, and the potential fall-out as Matthew’s history, and Layla’s past collide, in a fight to the death.

Layla Torian no longer trusts Matthew Langston, or the family that supposedly has let her down. Years under the ruthless control of her father have left Layla embattled and alone but her only thoughts are for the daughter she left behind. Succumbing to Matthew’s apologies and seduction forces Layla to look at the bigger picture when the truth is finally revealed. Matthew Langston knows that when Layla discovers the reality of his past, there may be no turning back from the betrayal and deception but Matthew is willing to risk everything for the woman he loves.

The relationship between Matthew and Layla struggles in the face of secrets, lies and betrayal. Layla is an outcast; a prisoner; a woman on her own but a woman who is determined to regain her freedom, perhaps at the cost of everything she knows. Matthew is desperate for Layla’s forgiveness but protecting our heroine is first and foremost on his mind. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and passionate but I struggle with the use of a certain four-letter word, used only once, but to what purpose.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Layla’s extended family of siblings and one-time friends from the original Hunting Her series: Decker and Keira, her brother Cole, Layla’s daughter Stella; Matthew’s brothers Salvo and Remy; Matthew’s right-hand man Bishop, as well as his uncle Lorenzo, and his father Emmanuel.

RUTHLESS REDEMPTION is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, obsession and love. The premise is heart breaking, edgy and emotional; the romance is captivating and impassioned; the characters are broken, lost, energetic and resolute. RUTHLESS REDEMPTION ends on a bit of a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

 Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one SEEKING VENGEANCE

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

Eden Summers is a bestselling author of contemporary romance with a side of sizzle and sarcasm.

She lives in Australia with a young family who are well aware she’s circling the drain of insanity. Eden can’t resist alpha dominance, dark features and sarcasm in her fictional heroes and loves a strong heroine who knows when to bite her tongue but also serves retribution with a feminine smile on her face

WEBSITE/ NEWSLETTER/ FACEBOOK/ FACEBOOK GROUP/ TWITTER /GOODREADS/ AMAZON/ BOOKBUB

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Burning Desire/Hot for You by Marie Harte-reviews

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BURNING DESIRE / HOT FOR YOU (Turn Up the Heat  2 & 3) by Marie Harte-reviews 

HOT FOR YOUR
Turn Up the Heat 3
by Marie Heat
Release Date: December 28, 2021
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, firefighter, romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 28, 2021

Firefighter Reggie Morgan is done with love, done with relationships, and done with complications. But when he’s called to the scene of a hit-and-run, he finds a scared little girl, a butt-ugly stray puppy, and an unconscious woman he can’t get out of his mind. The girl and the puppy are a handful, but the girl’s mother, Maggie might just be the woman to melt Reggie’s icy heart. Reggie has loved and lost before and the pain nearly broke him. But they can’t ignore their unquenchable desire for each other, and Maggie, a teacher by trade, is confident she can show Reggie all about falling–and staying–in love.

••••••••

REVIEW: HOT FOR YOU is the third instalment in Marie Harte’s contemporary, adult TURN UP THE HEAT erotic, firefighter, romance series. This is thirty-three year old, former US Navy Sonar Tech, and firefighter Reggie Morgan, and twenty-nine year old, primary school teacher/divorcee/single parent Maggie Swanson’s story line. HOT FOR YOU can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from several third person perspectives HOT FOR YOU follows the building romance and interracial relationship between firefighter Reggie Morgan, and primary school teacher Maggie Swanson. Called to the scene of a hit and run, Reggie Morgan finds himself falling for the victim, single mother Maggie Swanson. Having previously met Maggie’s precocious, six year old daughter at a children’s firefighter event, Reggie felt a kinship towards our story line heroine but Reggie has always had a need to help, to fix someone broken, and in this, Reggie believes Maggie is ripe for the picking. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Maggie and Reggie, and the potential fall-out as Reggie’s past retains control of our story line hero.

Maggie Swanson is a feisty, independent, strong willed, sexual woman who refuses to be anyone’s victim. Meeting firefighter Reggie Morgan stirs something deep within our story line heroine, something Maggie long thought buried and gone but Maggie’s first priority is her six year old daughter Emily, a young child who has stolen the heart of our story line hero. Reggie Morgan has loved and lost, and in this, Reggie struggles to move on from the past. Seeing a second chance with Maggie Swanson, Reggie begins a slow seduction of the woman with whom he will fall in love, a woman whose need for Reggie is outmatched by Reggie’s want to be needed by Maggie Swanson.

The relationship between Reggie and Maggie is one of immediate attraction but Reggie struggles with demons from the past. Maggie is a highly sexual woman who knows what she wants in the bedroom, and isn’t afraid to talk dirty when the situation arises. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

The secondary characters are flirty and fun-what comes out of the mouth of six year old Emily is priceless. We are reintroduced to Reggie’s fellow firefighters and EMTs: Brad Battle (Make Me Burn), Tex McGovern (Burning Desire), Mack, Hernandez and Washkowski; Reggie’s sisters Lisa and Nadia, and their father Harry Morgan; Maggie’s neighbors and Emily’s pseudo uncles Doug and Benny, as well as Maggie’s ex Stephen, their daughter Emily, and Reggie’s ex Amy.

HOT FOR YOU is a story of family, friendships, relationships and love; a story of betrayal, need and obsession; of love and acceptance. The premise is entertaining and engaging –the world building is detailed but I found myself skipping over what I thought were unimportant details like several paragraphs/pages of 80s movies and pop culture references; the romance is provocative; the characters are energetic and dynamic. HOT FOR YOU is another wonderful instalment in Marie Harte’s TURN UP THE HEAT sexy, firefighter series.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one MAKE ME BURN

_____

BURNING DESIRE
Turn Up the Heat 2
by Marie Harte
Release Date: August 24, 2021
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, firefighter, romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Firefighter Tex McGovern struck out with Bree Gilchrist the first time. And the second. And the third… He should probably just stay away. After all, Bree’s father is his boss, and pursuing her goes against the firefighter brotherhood. No matter how much he desires her, Bree is off limits. Period. But as things start to heat up between them, Tex decides some codes are meant to be broken…

Bree distrusts Tex. The displaced cowboy-turned-rescue-worker is too wild and wicked for his own good. Then she sees him helping people with no thought to himself, and she can’t help wondering what could be if she were suddenly his. But her father will not have his daughter dating a firefighter, and he can break Tex’s career. That’s a heavy burden to place on anyone, and Tex and Bree are forced to decide if the sparks between them are enough to risk the fallout to them both.

•••••••••••

REVIEW:  BURNING DESIRE is the second instalment in Marie Harte’s contemporary, adult TURN UP THE HEAT erotic, romance series focusing on a group of first responders in the Seattle Fire Department. This is twenty-nine year old, former US Marine turned Seattle firefighter Roger ‘Tex’ McGovern, and twenty-seven year old, photographer Bree Gilchrist’s story line. BURNING DESIRE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

Told from several third person perspectives including Tex and Bree, BURNING DESIRE follows the building but forbidden romance and relationship between twenty-nine year old, former US Marine turned Seattle firefighter Roger ‘Tex’ McGovern, and twenty-seven year old, photographer Bree Gilchrist. After three disastrous attempts to date Bree Gilchrist, firefighter Roger ‘Tex’ McGovern has been assigned as Bree’s tour director while our heroine photographs the firefighters at rest and on the job but Tex has been forewarned by Bree’s father, the Seattle battalion chief, that to mess with his daughter could mean the end of his job. Trying to keep their distance was a complete and utter failure but falling for one another would prove to be the hardest secret of all. What ensues is the forbidden romance and relationship between Breen and Tex, and the potential fall-out when Bree’s father discovers what has been going on behind his back.

Tex McGovern has been trying to ‘woo’ our heroine for several months but every attempt is met with disaster and failure. ‘Assigned’ to tag along with our story line heroine, Tex sees his chance to seduce Bree Gilchrist until orders from above threaten his job with the Seattle FD. Bree Gilchrist is an award winning photographer whose father is unable to cut the chord. Threatening our hero with the loss of his job means Chief Gilchrist is about to face the wrath of his daughter but not before facing the wrath of his own man.

Throughout the story line we are introduced to Bree’s step-sister Melissa, and her step-mother Charlie, as well as her best friend and attorney Carrie. Melissa and Bree’s relationship is slowly spiralling out of control, and when Carrie interferes, Bree may not only lose her sister, but her best friend as well.

The relationship between Bree and Tex begins acrimoniously as one disaster after another befalls their attempts to get to know one another. Tex is determined to claim Bree as his own but Bree struggles with her father’s threats, threats that may destroy the man that she loves. The $ex scenes are intimate, passionate, erotic and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

The secondary and supporting characters include shift lieutenant Ed O’Brien, battalion chief John Gilchrist, EMT Brad Battle and Avery (Make Me Burn 1), Reggie, Air Force Mack, Hernandez, Washkowski, Marcus, as well as Tex’s brother Wyatt, and his cousin Josh.

BURNING DESIRE is a story of power and control, family and relationships, acceptance and love. The premise is edgy; the sexual tension is palpable-the chemistry is hot; the characters are animated and feisty.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Marcus (Savage Kings MC: SC #9) by Lane Hart & DB West

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Marcus (Savage Kings MC: South Carolina #9)by Lane Hart & DB West

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 30,2021

When Marcus De La Cruz volunteered to sponsor the next prospect for the Savage Kings MC, he never expected to have a female candidate. Instead of being intimidated by him, she gives as good as she gets.

Teagan Allen knows the dangers of being a member of an outlaw MC all too well since her father was killed while wearing the bearded skull king patch. Roy Allen wasn’t just a member, but the president of the Charlotte chapter, and the man loved the club more than anything – even his own daughter.

Hoping to better understand her father’s obsession with the biker club, Teagan is determined to wear the same coveted patch, no matter what it takes, even if she has to manipulate the man in charge of picking the new prospect.

Marcus may think he has the upper hand when it comes to his secret exploits with Teagan, but she’s about to show him that more than one person can wear the crown in their relationship.

•••••••

REVIEW:MARCUS is the ninth instalment in the contemporary, adult SAVAGE KINGS MC: SOUTH CAROLINA erotic, MC, romance series co-authored by Lane Hart and DB West. This is Marcus De La Cruz, and Teagan TJ Allen’s story line. MARCUS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

WARNING: Due to the nature of the story line premise there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Marcus and Teagan) MARCUS follows the search for several new prospects for the Savage Kings MC in the wake of Hugo Reddick starting a new MC chapter in Virginia, taking several of the current prospects. Volunteering to interview and sponsor the new prospect candidates Marcus finds himself face to face with twenty-two year old Teagan TJ Allen, a young woman who is vying to be a member of the Savage Kings MC but what Marcus doesn’t realize is that Teagan is the daughter of the president of the Charlotte chapter of the Savage Kings MC, a man killed while protecting the bikers he loved. Refusing to take on a woman as an MC prospect, Marcus finds himself with a new housemate, in the form of the woman with whom he will fall in love. What ensues is the building but highly sexual relationship between Marcus and Teagan, and the potential fall-out as Teagan keeps her past a secret, and Marcus fears for the life of the woman that calls to his heart.

Marcus De La Cruz is a sadist, and finds the perfect foil in Teagan Allen. Teagan likes pain, and is a willing participant, even supplying Marcus with the toys to inflict the erotic pain but Marcus doesn’t want Teagan prospecting for the Savage Kings MC, and in this his guilt over his growing relationship, and denying Teagan membership, is going to affect their friendship, going forward.

The relationship between Marcus and Teagan is one of immediate attraction but Teagan is desperate to become a member of the Savage Kings MC, and will use her relationship with Marcus to get what she wants. Marcus, falling for the woman who is currently living in his home, finds himself wanting to protect Teagan Allen, including keeping her away from the life that he loves. The $ex scenes are erotic and intense with scenes of spanking, choking and bondage.

The secondary and supporting characters include several members of the Savage Kings MC. We are introduced to Teagan’s mother Jenny, and her significant other Kent Blake, the current president of the Charlotte Chapter.

MARCUS is a story of family, friendships, relationships and love: secrets and lies, desperation and acceptance. The fast paced premise is engaging; the characters are dynamic; the romance is raw .

Reading Order and Previous reviews
Roman
Winston
Verek
Conrad
Cannon
Nolan
Abel
Hugo

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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BAD BOSS by Michelle A Valentine-a review

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BAD BOSS by Michelle A Valentine-a review

ebook only 99¢ USD 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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 27, 2021

Dark.
Dangerous.
Powerful.

My new boss, Dominic De Luca has issued a city-wide hands-off order on me. He wants to own me—possess me body and soul, and every time he touches me it becomes more difficult to tell him no.

Innocent.
Beautiful.
And Mine.

From the moment Fiona stepped inside my club, she belonged to me. She walked willingly into the lion’s den and I’m about to devour every sweet inch of her.

•••••••

REVIEW: BAD BOSS by Michelle A Valentine is a stand alone, contemporary, adult, erotic, romance novella focusing on nightclub owner Dominic DeLuca, and medical student Fiona James.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Fiona and Dominic) BAD BOSS follows the building relationship between nightclub owner Dominic DeLuca, and medical student Fiona James. Fiona James is desperate to help her family in the wake of losing their home but Fiona is a struggling medical student, and if she leaves college, she will lose her scholarship. When her former roommate suggests working at the local strip club, Fiona knows she is not the type to take off her clothes for money but serving the patrons would help making ends meet. Enter nightclub owner Dominic De Luca, and the man with whom Fiona will fall in love. What ensues is the quick building romance and relationship between Fiona and Dominic, and the potential fall-out as Fiona’s future is threatened by someone in control.

Dominic De Luca doesn’t do relationships but something about Fiona draws Dominic like a moth to a flame. Wanting to keep Fiona for himself, Dominic sees read when Fiona ups her game to make more money to help her family, so our hero, makes Fiona an offer, she cannot refuse.

The relationship between Fiona and Dominic is one of immediate attraction that quickly turns into something more. Dominic finds himself falling for the red-haired beauty, a woman who takes control of his heart and his soul. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to Fiona’s former roommate Emmy, Dominic’s sister Cassie, and her son Mario; Dom’s former friend Marco Porello, and his brother Nico, as well as Fiona’s professor Kee.

BAD BOSS is a story of family, friendships, desperation and love. The fast paced, character driven premise is edgy and dramatic; the romance is provocative-a case of insta lust to love; the characters are energetic yet idealistic.

Own a copy

Reviewed by Sandy

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Ancient Vendetta (Ancients Rising 4) by Katie Reus-Review Tour

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Ancient Vendetta (Ancients Rising 4) by Katie Reus-Review Tour

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 28, 2021

His responsibility is to his pack, his people—the territory of New Orleans.

When the world devolved into chaos and fire, Alpha wolf King kept his territory from collapsing. Now, every day it seems there’s a new challenge—rogue witches, treacherous vampires, evil dragons. But his biggest threat is Aurora. Unique, magical, a female who sees him, the male, and not simply the Alpha in charge. But she’s thrown up so many walls that he’s afraid he’ll never be able to break through to the woman behind them. When the most dangerous threat they’ve ever faced ravages the city he’ll need her at his side—to defeat it, and then claim the woman who already owns him, body and soul.

But she makes him want more.

After being held captive for a year, Aurora has embraced her freedom. For the first time in her life she’s living away from her older sister in a new territory. A new world. She’s made friends and is helping New Orleans get back on its feet. Giving to others is helping her combat her PTSD, but she’s far from the woman she used to be. Even so, she can’t fight her ever present and growing attraction to King. Except she’s afraid she’s broken, that she’ll never be able to have a normal relationship again—that she can’t handle being an Alpha’s mate. When an evil linked to his past threatens to tear them apart and destroy the city, she must set her fears aside and find the courage to follow her heart—and the wolf who’s already won it.

••••••

REVIEW: ANCIENT VENDETTA is the fourth instalment in Katie Reus’ contemporary, adult ANCIENTS RISING paranormal/fantasy romance series. This is New Orleans’ Alpha wolf shifter King, and phoenix aurora’s story line. ANCIENT VENDETTA can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and cohesion as there is a continuing theme throughout.

SOME BACKGROUND: Months earlier, several dragons rose from their sleep, and in the aftermath destroyed much of the city of New Orleans, Louisiana, in an apocalyptic showdown known as The Fall, but in doing so revealed the existence of the supernatural world to humankind. Ancients Rising focuses on the recovery of the city, and the group of supernaturals and dragons who have come to call New Orleans their home.

Told from several third person perspectives including King and Aurora, following several paths, ANCIENT VENDETTA focuses on the building relationship and romance between New Orleans’ Alpha King and phoenix Aurora. An ancient enemy, long thought dead and buried, has arisen and King finds himself desperate to the claim the woman he loves but as the number of dead and dying human and supernatural creatures continues to grow, King finds himself not only reliving the horrors of the past, but facing a future without the woman he loves. Enter Aurora, a phoenix of immense powers but a woman who is willing to sacrifice herself for our story line hero. What ensues is the building friends to lovers relationship between Aurora and King, and the potential fall-out as King’s past returns to destroy them all.

Meanwhile, the Fae have come to New Orleans in an effort to form an alliance with King and his Pack but all is not well in the human realm. When an old enemy sets his sights on our story line hero, he will use any means necessary including the Fae, whose connections to King are about to be revealed.

The relationship between Aurora and King is a friends to lovers, immediate attraction between the New Orleans’ Alpha and the phoenix he loves but King has bided his time, time he no longer has in the face of an ancient vendetta. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate and seductive.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Aurora’s small pack of supernaturals-lion shifter Axel, tiger twins Harlow and Brielle, Lola,; half demon Cynara; Ingrid and Claudine;Rhys, Dallas; dragon healer Greer; dragon shifter Casimir, and his soon to be mate Jo, dragon shifter Prima; dragonlings Hunter and Willow: the Fae King Sorgin, and his daughter Cressida., and vampire Christian who may or may not have focused his attention on Axel. The requisite evil has many faces.

ANCIENT VENDETTA is a complex, detailed and exciting story that reveals more than one mating, several betrayals, and a connection and future alliance with the Fae of the Latore Kingdom. The fast paced premise is captivating and engaging; the slow building romance is impassioned; the characters are charismatic, powerful and determined.

Reading Order and Previous reviews
Ancient Protector
Ancient Enemy
Ancient Enforcer

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

She tried the front door and it was unlocked, which actually surprised her.“Not open,” Mac’s deep, rumbly voice called out from the back about a second before he stepped out from his workshop. His eyes widened when he saw her.

And he stood there looking like deer in headlights. Good.

“Adeline,” he began.

“A text? Seriously? You blow me off with a freaking text,” she snapped out, her boots stomping forward of their own volition. That burning fire that had spent days kindling was licking up her spine now as she worked up a good head of anger.

He closed his eyes briefly as he moved toward her. “Look, it’s not what you think.”

“Really? It’s not what I think? You didn’t send me a dismissive, crappy text about an hour before our date? After spending all that time together and becoming…friends.” Or she’d thought they had. Obviously she was wrong. “So you didn’t blow me off after all that? And then ignore me right in front of people on Main Street?” It was quite literally possible there was actual steam coming out of her ears right now.

Guilt flickered across his expression for a moment but then his face went carefully neutral. “Look, I didn’t know how else to handle it. I just don’t think we should see each other. I shouldn’t have ignored you and I should have called, but—”

She’d took another step forward, hands on hips, when the front door behind her swung open with a bang.

She jumped and turned to find some guy stalking in. He had on heavy-looking boots, jeans, a short-sleeved T-shirt, and there was a chain hanging from his back pocket attached to his belt. And he had some ugly-looking tattoos on his arms. Prison tats.

 


 

Katie Reus is the New York Times, USA Today, and IndieReader bestselling author of the Red Stone Security series, the Moon Shifter series and the Deadly Ops series. She fell in love with romance at a young age thanks to books she pilfered from her mom’s stash. Years later she loves reading romance almost as much as she loves writing it.

However, she didn’t always know she wanted to be a writer. After changing majors many times, she finally graduated summa cum laude with a degree in psychology. Not long after that she discovered a new love. Writing. She now spends her days writing dark paranormal romance and sexy romantic suspense. Her book Avenger’s Heat recently won the Georgia RWA Maggie Award for Excellence in the fantasy/paranormal category.

Connect with Katie:

Facebook | Blog| Twitter | Goodreads | Pinterest | Website

 

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Flame (Steel Brothers 20) by Helen Hardt-Review Tour

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Flame (Steel Brothers 20) by Helen Hardt-Review Tour

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 28, 2021.

Her past is coming back to haunt her. His present is haunting him.

Callie Pike always considered herself the plain sister—stuck in the middle between beautiful Rory and vivacious Maddie—so she still can’t believe gorgeous perennial bachelor Donny Steel has fallen in love with her. She should be the happiest woman on the planet, and she is…but her nemesis from ten years ago seems intent on destroying her newfound bliss.

Donny Steel will do anything to protect his family, even sacrifice his ethics and his own happiness. As much as he loves Callie, he knows he can’t be the man she deserves—not until he solves the mysteries of his family’s past and finds out who shot his father.

Though the two erupt in flames whenever they’re together, the secrets they both harbor could destroy any chance for a future together.

•••••••

REVIEW:All consuming.

Flame is the twentieth installment of Helen Hardt’s Steel Brothers Saga, but also part two for Donny and Callie. Like most of the Steel brothers books this one involves family, love, mystery and secrets. It’s recommended to read the books in order to get the most out of them, but I promise, as soon as you start, you won’t be able to put them down.

I feel like Flame focuses more on Callie and Donvans relationship than anything else, but I’m not complaining about it. The steamy scenes are spicy, spicy, spicy, and really push Callie out of her comfort zone. While Callie starts to build a future with Donny, she still holds fears that he will one day find out her secrets, and leave her when he does. Donny on the other hand is on a search of his own, the search for a murder. The plot thickens, and just when you think you’ve figured out what is going on, that you have all the answers…

BAM! A new twist!

Just wow, I can’t get enough of this series! Callie and Donny’s story left off on such a cliff hanger last time and I was dying to get back to it. Helen Hardt sure doesn’t let her readers suffer. Callie and Donny have a love that girls dream of finding, they will literally do anything to protect the other, even if they don’t agree with it. *Swoon* Flame will keep you engaged and hopeful, eagerly waiting for the next moment to happen. I can’t wait to see where this mysterious, heart pounding, romantic drama leads us next.

Previous reviews
Ravenous
Insatiable
Fate
Legacy
Descent
Awakened
Cherished

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sarah

Haven’t started the series? CRAVING book one is FREE

Amazon: Amazon.com 
Nook: http://bit.ly/1SEMVJJ
Apple Books: http://apple.co/1KZrHnc
Google Play: http://bit.ly/27w3fC6
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1oPBthR

Follow:Goodreads/ Website / Twitter / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest

#1 New York Times, #1 USA Today, and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author Helen Hardt’s passion for the written word began with the books her mother read to her at bedtime. She wrote her first story at age six and hasn’t stopped since. In addition to being an award-winning author of romantic fiction, she’s a mother, an attorney, a black belt in Taekwondo, a grammar geek, an appreciator of fine red wine, and a lover of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream. She writes from her home in Colorado, where she lives with her family. Helen loves to hear from readers.

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