Tag Archives: Paranormal

Shadow Dance by Christine Feehan – Dual Review & Giveaway

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Shadow Dance by Christine Feehan – Review & Giveaway

 

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Description:
As the head of the New York City Shadow Riders and his branch of the Ferraro family, Geno bears the weight of dual responsibilities on his broad shoulders. There’s nothing more important to Geno than protecting his territory and his famiglia. So when his own parents become the latest victims in a string of vicious murders, Geno is ready to go scorched earth. He thinks he has the assassin in his sights, but he’s unprepared for the firestorm their connection ignites….

Amaranthe Aubert’s lithe dancer’s body conceals a spine of steel. Even held captive and faced with the threat of lethal interrogation, she’s not about to cave under pressure. She had nothing to do with the murders, no matter what the ruthless man in front of her believes. But before Amara knows what’s happening, Geno connects to her in the shadows, stripping her bare of all artifice. Now, she has no way to hide her true reason for being in New York–and nowhere to run from the man who’s very presence steals the very breath from her lungs….

 

 

Barb’s Review:

Shadow Dance by Christine Feehan is the 8th book in her fantastic Shadow Riders series. I have note that I loved this book, as we got to meet the New York Ferraro family, and throughout the whole book we spend so much time with all of our favorite Chicago family.  So much fun and entertaining. Refresher:   Shadow riders have the ability to blend themselves to the shadows wherever they are, making themselves invisible to anyone.  The Ferraro family runs a legitimate business; they use their ability to help others in need to solve various problems and dispense justice.  They are an extremely powerful and close-knit family that is totally loyal to one another, also protecting the people that in live in their community.

We meet Geno Ferraro, the head of the New York Shadow Rider family. He protects his territory, and his two brothers.  Geno senses something is amiss, with a number or murders against shadow riders all over the US & Europe. He thinks he has found an assassin, and calls Stefano to help him interrogate this person. 

We meet Amaranthe (Amara) Aubert, our heroione, who is a famous dancer, now in New York to perform in the upcoming Romeo and Juliett show.  Amara, is captured by Geno, as he threatens her, thinking she is one of the murderers.  But soon he realizes with Stefano’s help, that she is a shadow rider working for the Archambault family to secretly find the enemies.  Amara knows that she needs to reveal her true reason for being in New York, especially with two powerful Shadow Riders leaders. Geno realizes that Amara is the one for him, and their attraction to each other is immediate, though Amara will not open up her heart, as she is determined to complete her mission. In a short period, Amara begins to fall hard for Geno, as well as his two fun brothers.  The romance between Geno and Amara was fierce and inspiring, as they were fantastic individuals, with Amara also being a powerful shadow rider.  Everything changes for both of them, as Geno never thought he would find the woman of his dreams, and Amara never had a family. 

As noted above, all the members of the Chicago Ferarro’s played such a big part in helping fight the enemy, as well as other riders from various states.  I just loved seeing all of my favorites, and the fun they had teasing each other. Amara was an amazing heroine, with her fast-moving ability within the shadows, including at one time saving Stefano’s life. 

Shadow Dance was an emotional story on many levels; the danger and threats from the evil shadow riders, as well as the sizzling romance between Geno and Amara, not to mention the wonderful bond all the Ferraro’s have for each other.  Geno wasn’t thrilled that Amara wanted to continue be a shadow rider, but he knew that any fears he had, resulted in her own fears for him. I will not give spoilers, as I do not want to ruin it for you; especially since this was a masterpiece. 

Shadow Dance was a captivating, exciting, suspenseful, action-packed from start to finish; especially the fantastic last third of the book; where all the Ferraro family was is in danger.  Their romance was sizzling and I did love Geno and Amara together. This was an awesome addition to this series, and I was very happy that we will get more Shadow Riders stories from other families.

Christine Feehan once again gives us a fabulous story, which was so very well written.  This is a fantastic Paranormal series (quickly becoming my favorite series).  If you have not read this series, you need to start with the first book.  If you have read them all, you will love this one.

 

Sandy’s Review:

SHADOW DANCE is the eight instalment in Christine Feehan’s contemporary, adult SHADOW RIDERS paranormal, erotic, romance series focusing on the Ferraro Crime Family. This is Shadow Rider Geno Ferraro, and ballet dancer Amaranthe “Amara’ Aubert’s story line. SHADOW DANCER 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.

SOME BACKGROUND: The Shadow Rider male must find his mate –a woman who is capable of riding the shadows-or at the very least with the ability to bear children with the shadow-riding gene. Within the family, the Ferraro siblings are tasked with finding a mate, fated by DNA, who is capable of continuing the family line. People with the ability to ride the shadows are few and far between, and future generations are at risk if no mates are found with the shadow-riding gene. The Ferraro’s are also part of the Chicago Underworld-a crime family linked to both legal and criminal activity.

Told from third person perspectives SHADOW DANCER follows in the aftermath of the murder of Geno’s parents Eugene and Margo Ferraro. Someone is killing Shadow Rider couples, and Geno is about to discover the Ferraro family has been targeted. Enter ballet dancer and elite investigator Amaranthe Aubert, the woman with whom Geno will fall in love. As Amara and Geno begin investigating a series of attacks against anyone connected to the Ferraro family, our couple will discover that all is not well in the world of the Shadow Rider, past sins are about to reveal a darkness that has targeted the Ferraro family. What ensues is the building relationship between Amara and Geno, and the potential fall-out as Geno’s need to protect Amara threatens their future and their own happily ever after.

The world building continues to focus on the world of the Shadow Rider: their ability to ‘ride the shadows’, and those who are trained to serve justice when a ‘rider’ cannot be sentenced through regular law enforcement. As each member of the Ferraro finds their own happily ever after, secrets will reveal a past haunted by neglect and abuse.

The relationship between Geno and Amara is one of fated mates but Amara has been tasked with investigating the people or person’s responsible, having been lead to believe the Ferraro’s may be the key. When Geno’s ‘shadow’ entwines with our story line heroine’s, Amara knows immediately that separating from Geno could mean death to them both. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate and intense.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and powerful secondary and supporting characters including most if not all of the previous story line couples, even if just by way of mention of total involvement. We are reintroduced to Geno’s brothers Salvatore and Lucca, and Dario Bosco, a non-rider who is aware of the Shadow Rider’s existence. The requisite evil has many faces.

SHADOW DANCE is another dramatic story of family and relationships, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, fate and love. The premise is edgy, detailed, complex and dark; the romance is spirited and provocative; the characters are impassioned, desperate, powerful and determined.

She nodded, never looking away from his dark gaze. She did love his eyes. “I’m very sure. I’m not going to doubt us again.”
His smile was slow in climbing to his eyes, but when it reached them, it lit up the deep blue until her stomach began to perform loops and somersaults.
“You’re lethal to women, Geno.”
“Just to you, I promise.”
He cupped the back of her head gently and bent to brush his lips across hers, featherlight, before she could protest that she was wearing lipstick. As kisses went, it was fairly virtuous. It shouldn’t have made her heart pound like a drum out of control, but it did. He didn’t stop there. He shifted her, easily bringing her onto his lap, urging her to straddle his thighs.
Amaranthe knew better, but she couldn’t help herself. He mesmerized her. Large hands at her waist, he lifted her, and she settled one knee on either side of his thighs. His lips moved on hers again and again. Barely there. Whispering. Never hurrying. So light. Coaxing her with tenderness as if he knew everything she said was bravado. She was still afraid to go into his world with him.
Geno had kissed her with fire, but not like this. Not with tenderness. Not so she could taste raw emotion. He was giving her a gift—showing her how he felt. Her lips trembled beneath his. This was a terrifying moment even as she reveled in it. His chest was hard as it rose and fell against the softness of her breasts. His tongue slid along the seam of her lips, and her heart contracted.
I want you for myself, Danzatrice Ombra. You’re the only thing I’ve ever wanted for me. The only woman I’ve looked at and known I had to have, or it would be no one. If you turn me down, there will be no arranged marriage. No children with another rider. You are my partner, Amaranthe. I feel it with every breath I take. Feel it, too. Want me the way I want you.
He whispered poetic words like that into her mind, and she knew she would never be able to resist him. It didn’t matter that he was so far out of her league, and she had no idea how to be with a man like him, she knew she couldn’t walk away from him.
She saw his absolute resolve. He meant every word he said. His life had been dictated to him, his every path, his every breath and step. He was done with giving every aspect of his life to everyone else. He would choose his wife. The woman he would marry. If he couldn’t have the woman he loved, he would choose to be alone. She saw that determination in him. When Geno made up his mind, he was absolute steel.
I’m so afraid I’ll embarrass you, Geno. I have no idea what to do or say around these people. I don’t belong with them.
His mouth brushed across her lips again. Gently. Coaxing. So tender her stomach did a slow somersault and her sex clenched. She held herself very still, frozen in place, but the need for flight was paramount. Every inch of the front of her body was pressed tightly against him. His masculine scent enveloped her so that each time she inhaled, she took him deep into her lungs.
You don’t need to belong with them, Amara. You belong with me. I’m the one who needs you, not them. I don’t belong. Haven’t you noticed? I’m not the same as the rest of them and I make them uneasy. I’ve never minded, but I don’t want you to feel that way. I don’t want you uneasy around me.
How could he think that? Did she make him think it was him? She slid her palms up his chest and linked her fingers behind his neck, her mouth moving under his in answer.
It isn’t you I’m afraid of, Geno. I love being with you, and I’m comfortable with you. It’s the others in your world.
His teeth teased at her lower lip, tugging very gently while his palm curled around the nape of her neck and his thumb swept along her cheek.
Give yourself to me, la mia danzatrice ombra. I swear, you’ll always be safe with me. I’ll make you happy.
There was no resisting him. She didn’t even want to resist him. He was right.
I want you to know you will always come first. Always.
Excerpted from Shadow Dance by Christine Feehan Copyright © 2023 by Christine Feehan. Excerpted by permission of Berkley. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.

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Total Eclipse of the Moon by Zoe Forward – a Review

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Total Eclipse of the Moon by Zoe Forward – a Review

 

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Description:
If he doesn’t break the curse tying him and his brothers to the Crown of England as paranormal terrorist hunters, they’ll be forced to execute him.

An accidental demon possession erodes Shane Lanzo’s sanity. Sometimes he’s in control. Sometimes not. His only hope is the witch who cast the curse, which is a problem. The last two times he approached her, the feisty enchantress somehow tamed the demon inside him, but rendered him useless against his desire for her.

Madeline Edney sucks at being a witch. Her casting the curse on the lycan brothers was a fluke, and it destroyed her life. She’s been hunted by the Crown ever since to make sure she doesn’t try to undo the curse. She never expected Shane to find her so easily. He’s a temptation that promises zinger chemistry, her absolute weakness. One taste was gratifying. Two was foolish. Three has become an addiction. Lifting the curse requires she forfeit her life, but if the hunters kill her, it leaves Shane at the mercy of the Crown. Either way she dies.

Shane has a choice: freedom for his family, risking Madeline in the process or a chance at happiness with the witch who fated his brothers as prisoners for eternity.

 

 

 

Review:

Total Eclipse of the Moon by Zoe Forward is the 3rd book in her Crown of Wolves series. The Lanzo brothers (Lycans), are bound to the Crown’s command, as they have  been cursed to be the Crowns weapons, and destroy all enemies. We meet the fourth brother, Shane, who was presumed dead; but he has been accidently possessed by a demon; with both fighting for control.  Shane is determined to find a way to break the curse tying him and his brothers to the Crown of England, as paranormal terrorist hunters. Though he has met her a couple of times, he has not been successful to get the witch to remove the curse that she put on all 4 brothers.

Madeline Edney, a witch, who has limited powers, does her best over the years, to avoid Shane or any of the other brothers, since she really doesn’t know how to remove the curse.  Madeline knows the Crown is always keeping an eye on her to not remove the curse; she is very much aware that lifting the curse will cause her death. 

Shane does find Madeline, who is able to help tame his demon, especially when she sings.  Both Shane and Madeline find themselves very attracted to each other, with sizzling chemistry; giving into their passion, which is now addicting.  Madeline manages to leave Shane behind, leaving him to return home to his family, who are shocked that he is still alive.

What follows is an exciting, tense, action-packed adventure that kept me unable to put the book down.  I loved the chemistry between Shane and Maddy, and prayed they would find a way to be together, especially with her possible loss of life if she removes the curse. Shane, who is totally in love with Maddy, wanted to remove the curse, but he did not want her to die doing it.  He had to find another way to save her. It was great to see the whole family together: Roman, Nova, Ky, Vivi, as well as Cora, Evie, Dom, Antonio and at the end, I did like Baku (the demon).  I do not want to say too much more, because you need to read this book, without me ruining it for you

Total Eclipse of the Moon was exciting through most of the book, with non-stop action, great characters, and a world filled with witches, secrets, enemies, vampire and battles. I thought that Shane and Madeline were so great together. Total Eclipse of the Moon was so very well written by Zoe Forward. 

Reviewed by Barb

Copy supplied for Review

 

 

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Ignite the Magic (Dragon Kings Prequel) by Donna Grant-review

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Ignite the Magic (Dragon Kings Prequel) by Donna Grant-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 15, 2023

Passion’s magic ignites a fire too hot to touch—and too wicked to die…

The stars have always called to Ailis, beckoning her to see what other realms were out there. She’s told its impossible, but that doesn’t stop her need to explore beyond what others believe. Ailis never expected to change history by creating the first doorway to another realm. She certainly never imagined opening that door to find a commanding dragon who shifts into a man. She’s irresistibly drawn to Lennox, powerless against the yearning of her body and the longing of her heart.

Magic might have chosen Lennox as King of Dragon Kings, but it’s a position he’s never wanted. Until the day a new being arrives—and irrevocably changes his life. The closer he gets to the fearless, ravishing woman, the more he fights the passion that flares between them. He lives only for his duty, but one fiery kiss unleashes a firestorm of desire that will ripple across eons and realms. Fate might have brought them together, but will it also tear them apart?

The origins of the Dark Kings/Dragon Kings and the entire Dark Universe is finally revealed.

•••••

REVIEW:IGNITE THE MAGIC by Donna Grant is the prequel story line revealing the origins of the author’s Dark Kings and Dragon Kings series. This is King of Dragon Kings Lennox, and Dark Fae Ailis’ story line. IGNITE THE MAGIC can be read as a stand alone but for back story and cohesion, it is best have some prior understanding and working knowledge of the series.

Told from omniscient dual third person perspectives (Lennox and Ailis) IGNITE THE MAGIC introduces the back story and history when the Dragons makes first contact with someone from another realm. Ailis is a Dark Fae, and after ‘borrowing’ a book of magic, travels through a magical door onto a place she will come to know as Earth. Coming face to face with Lennox, King of the Dragon Kings, Ailis believes she has entered another dimension but will quickly discover her magic and presence changes the history of the dragons forever. Ailis and Lennox know they are one another’s fated mate but all is not well in the world of the Dragon, and Lennox must make some hard decisions including hiding the woman with whom he has fallen in love.

IGNITE THE MAGIC is a story of discovery and acceptance, discrimination and betrayal, power and control, love and understanding. The character driven premise is heart breaking, emotional and revealing; the romance is fated and passionate; the characters are powerful and determined.

 

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Dragon Revealed
Dragon Mine
Dragon Unbound
Dragon Eternal
Dragon Lover

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Lennox knew every creature on the realm, and the one before him wasn’t one of them. The being was small, seemingly harmless, but underestimating her would be his folly. He climbed out of the water, intending to investigate this new arrival—and what it wanted. His duty was to protect the dragons and the realm itself—from anything he deemed a threat. And until he knew differently, the newcomer was exactly that.
While he didn’t know what it was yet, his magic informed him that it was female. He took in her exotic look, finding it surprisingly appealing. Her thick hair fell nearly to her hips, the black strands woven with bright silver. Her oval face was both delicate and fierce—a combination that utterly intrigued him. Her crimson eyes were ringed in black, making her thick, midnight lashes more pronounced. She had high cheekbones, a stubborn tilt to her chin, and lips that drew his gaze again and again.
She wore garments to cover herself, which he found curious. Though he had to admit he liked the way they contoured to her body, showcasing every amazing curve. The article closest to her skin was so dark a green it was nearly black. Over that was a piece of black leather laced up her front to end in a V at her breasts, showing the green beneath it and then her beige skin.
Draped across her body was a length of leather with a bag attached at the end. Her legs were encased in black with material that looked as supple and pliable as skin. Her feet were also covered in leather, albeit thicker, the material going all the way up to her knees.
His gaze moved back to her mouth as she spoke. He frowned as he listened to the inaudible words. Lennox then noticed the iridescent orbs in each of her hands. He immediately realized it was magic of some sort. So, this female had magic as dragons did. Interesting.
She spoke again, and his power began to decipher the words.
“…well? Get on with it,” she demanded.
Lennox fought not to smile at her pluck. He wanted to talk to her, but dragons didn’t communicate as she did. No sooner had the thought gone through his mind than pain shot through him. Bones snapped, and muscles and ligaments tore. A bellow locked in his throat at the agony. It felt like it went on forever, and then it was just…gone.
He suddenly found himself no longer towering over the female. Lennox glanced down at himself to see that he looked like her. That wasn’t possible. He lifted his hands, expecting to see his long talons, but they were gone. As were his scales.
“Bloody hell,” she murmured, her voice soft with surprise.
He knew he was stunned. This had never happened before. He swallowed and worked his mouth as she continued eyeing him suspiciously. Lennox wanted to move, but he was still testing his new body. The last thing he wanted was to fall flat on his face. The female might just use those balls of magic on him.
Lennox flexed his fingers and squeezed his toes in the rocks that lined the shore. He rotated his shoulders before stilling as something landed against his cheek. He reached up to feel it. He tugged but discovered it was attached to his head.
“That’s your hair,” the female stated.
He looked at her black and silver locks and tried to see his. To his surprise, he could move it around enough to see that it was a golden hue.
“You understand me?”
Lennox’s gaze slid to her as he nodded. But he didn’t try for words. He touched his face. His long snout and sharp teeth were gone. Once more, hands drew his gaze. He rubbed his fingers along his thumb, captivated by the feeling. This was entirely different than what he experienced in his other form. There were thousands more sensations, each demanding his attention.

Donna Grant is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the sizzling Dark King series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.

She was born and raised in Texas but loves to travel. Her adventures have taken her throughout the United States as well as to Jamaica, Mexico, and Scotland. Growing up on the Texas/Louisiana border, Donna’s Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding.

Despite deadlines and voracious reading, Donna still manages to keep up with her two children, four cats, and one long haired Chihuahua.

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A VAMPIRE’S FATE by Marie-Claude Bourque-a review

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A VAMPIRE’S FATE (Order of the Black Oak-Vampires 4) by Marie-Claude Bourque-review

 

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 25, 2023

Meet the Order of the Black Oak: a powerful order of modern-day warriors fighting evil to protect the ones they love.

When wolf shifter and dedicated nurse Rosalie Gauthier returns to her town to take on the leadership of her pack after her father’s illness, her birthright is challenged a tyrannic rival, and marriage to a powerful vampire is her only option to save her family’s legacy.

Bound by honor to his lifetime oath to protect the alpha of the Domaine-Lassalle pack, Mount-Royal Immortal Renaud St-Amand’s duty turns out a whole lot more complicated when he is hit with love at first sight for the future female leader on the day of their arranged marriage.

••••••••

REVIEW: A VAMPIRE’S FATE is the fourth instalment in Marie-Claude Bourque’s contemporary, adult ORDER OF THE BLACK OAK-VAMPIRES erotic, paranormal romance series. This is new wolf pack alpha /registered practical nurse Rosalie Gauthier, and warrior vampire/ Mont-Royal Immortal guardian Renaud ‘Ren’ St. Amand’s story line. A VAMPIRE’S FATE can be read as a stand alone but for back story and cohesion, I recommend reading the series in order as the author/characters reference previous events throughout.

Told from omniscient dual third person perspectives (Rosalie and Ren) A VAMPIRE’S FATE follows in the wake of the arranged marriage between new wolf pack alpha /registered practical nurse Rosalie Gauthier, and warrior vampire/guardian Renaud ‘Ren’ St. Amand. With her father and alpha, Alcide Gauthier’s health failing, Rosalie must step up and take the position that has been linked to her family for hundreds of years but there are some wolves who do not want a female in charge, and by marrying Rosalie to her vampire protector Renaud ‘Ren’ St. Amand, Alicide is hoping his daughter will be powerful enough to face what is coming. Another powerful wolf has challenged Rosalie for the top position but Rosalie is about to face a fight to the death in an effort to keep the power in her family’s line. What ensues is the arranged marriage, and building relationship between Ren and Rosalie, and the potential fall-out as the challenger fights dirty threatening the lives of everyone Rosalie loves.

The world building focuses on the accension to the proverbial throne. Rosalie’s brother is too young to take command, and by declaring his daughter the new alpha, Alcide Gauthier has brought both fight and fire to his peaceful pack. Rosalie is struggling with her marriage to Renaud, a marriage she believes is nothing more than a piece of paper until she ascends into power.

The relationship between Ren and Rosalie is one of an arranged marriage between two people who barely know one another but one has found himself falling for the woman in charge. Rosalie believes her time with Ren is only temporary until they both realize that fate has something more in the plan for our story line couple. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, energetic and supernatural secondary and supporting characters including many references to characters found in the previous story lines. We are introduced to Rosalie’s younger brother Liam, their sister Delphine, and their father Alcide, as well as supernatural healer Caro Mercier, Old Simon, Ren’s brothers rock star Cass St. Amand, Griff and Justin. The requisite evil has many faces including wolf shifter Charles Bouchard, and Rosalie’s ex boyfriend Francois.

A VAMPIRE’S FATE is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, obsession and madness, acceptance and love. The fast paced, character driven premise is edgy and dramatic; the characters are animated and spirited; the romance is fated and seductive.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Animal by Barbara Meyers – a Review

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Animal by Barbara Meyers – a Review

 

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Description:
Sometimes he’s a beast. Can Bree tame him?

After animal sanctuary director Bree is mysteriously attacked, she becomes obsessed with her rescuer, the enigmatic Griffin Lancaster.

Bree’s cooperation is key to preserving Griff’s family legacy, and his skills are necessary to maintain the sanctuary’s viability.

While Griff lives on borrowed time, he must fight an internal battle between his desire for Bree, and his determination to protect her from the evil that’s a part of him.

Their attraction to each other becomes irresistible as their paths continue to cross. To save Bree, Griff cruelly rejects her advances.

Bree nearly destroys herself before Griff rescues her once again, only this time she won’t let him escape. Bree must find a way to change Griff’s destiny because losing him again is unthinkable.

Bree discovers the truth Griff doesn’t want her to know: Saving him is possible. If she’s willing to make the ultimate sacrifice.

There’s no way either can survive without the other.

Or is there?

 

 

Review:

Animal by Barbara Meyers is a slow burn shifter romance that is always a tick for me. But this is really slow, and I didn’t really gel with the main characters. It’s a really good read, but I was left feeling a little deflated afterwards. The spice scenes go from red hot chilly to somewhat nondescript and fade out!! A curse that turns you into another creature is bad enough, but when the curse also shortens your life span! No wonder Griff is always looking to be alone! 

Bree works in an animal sanctuary, she loves her job, what she’s not expecting is to be attacked one evening! 

Griff just wants it all to be over! He’s had enough of waking up and not remembering the previous night. He’s also aware that his lifespan is shorter than normal! He’s a good guy, so why was he cursed?  Yes the key to breaking the curse is pretty predictable, and I’m sure most of you will guess it pretty quick. 

Griff and Bree spend a lot of the book dancing around one another. He doesn’t want to fall in love, he doesn’t want to find Bree mutilated the next morning, and have no idea how it happened! 

I personally feel there should have been a warning about the death (especially Griff thinking of taking his own life! Personal opinion). And although fascinating, the folklore and legends did take up a big chunk of the book! I did like the idea of a single shifter living on their own, rather than the pack we usually read. It did stop rather abruptly, and I would have liked a chapter so see their future. 

So a pretty good book with lots of potential.  A good story, but with an abrupt ending. And characters that were ok. 

Reviewed by Julie

Copy supplied for Review

 

 

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Bring Me Your Midnight by Rachel Griffin – a Review

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Bring Me Your Midnight by Rachel Griffin – a Review

 

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Description:
Tana Fairchild’s fate has never been in question. Her life has been planned out since the moment she was born: she is to marry the governor’s son, Landon, and secure an unprecedented alliance between the witches of her island home and the mainlanders who see her very existence as a threat.

Tana’s coven has appeased those who fear their power for years by releasing most of their magic into the ocean during the full moon. But when Tana misses the midnight ritual—a fatal mistake—there is no one she can turn to for help…until she meets Wolfe.

Wolfe claims he is from a coven that practices dark magic, making him one of the only people who can help her. But he refuses to let Tana’s power rush into the sea, and instead teaches her his forbidden magic. A magic that makes her feel powerful. Alive.

As the sea grows more violent, her coven loses control of the currents, a danger that could destroy the alliance as well as her island. Tana will have to choose between love and duty, between loyalty to her people and loyalty to her heart. Marrying Landon would secure peace for her coven but losing Wolfe and his wild magic could cost her everything else.

 

 

Review:

Bring Me Your Midnight by Rachel Griffin is another one of her excellent fantasy stand-alone novels. We meet Tana Fairchild, our heroine, who lives with her family on an island; which is run by witches. Tana’s mother is the leader of the coven, and soon Tana is expected to marry the mainland Governor’s son, Landon.  The island and mainland will then secure an alliance between them, eliminating any possible threats, with minimal magic. Tana has always accepted that was her destiny, to protect the coven and island. Having met Landon, she knows he is very nice and respectful, but she begins to realize that this will be a loveless marriage.

One night, before she is to meet with coven to release their magic to the sea monthly, as she sees a strange flower and tries to catch it.  It is then she realizes that she missed the meeting, and knows that this could cause her to lose her life.  She meets Wolfe, a witch from the old coven- a coven she thought was non-existent, who also practiced dark magic. Tana learns about Wolfe, and his supposedly long-lost coven, and in her desperation, she asks him for his help, to release her magic. Wolfe does help Tana, and each night she meets him to learn about his coven.  She learns more about the old coven, and their High Magic, as well as discovering many truths that her mother kept secret all these years. 

Because the coven forces their magic to the sea, which causes the sea to grow more violent over time; Wolfe shows Tana how to free her magic, when necessary, but not to the sea.  Slowly, as Wolfe teaches Tana the ways of the old coven, she begins to have strong feelings for Wolfe, as he does with her. Tana is loyal to her coven, and knows she must honor her duty; but she knows that Landon, will probably never feel love.  Wolfe has opened her eyes to a world of magic and love, especially having met many members of the old coven. Though Landon was a nice guy, Tana and Wolfe were made for each other.  Will Tana act on her duty or respond to her heart?

Bring Me Your Midnight was a wonderful, enchanting and emotional fantasy romance, that was so very well written by Rachel Griffin. The last third of the book, was exciting, as Tana must find a way to bring both covens together, and make peace with the mainlanders.  If you enjoy magic, witches, sea, love and twists, I suggest you read this book. Rachel Griffin once again gives us a fabulous story revolving around witches. 

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

 

 

 

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A Touch of Seduction (Satan’s Touch Academy 2) by Crea Reitan-review tour

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A Touch of Seduction (Satan’s Touch Academy 2) by Crea Reitan-review tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 27, 2023

Don’t go into the basement…

After finding themselves kidnapped by a hidden secret society that operates out of the basement of Sacred Tongue Academy (AKA Satan’s Touch), the witches barely managed to get away, taking a tortured demon along with them and landing in the middle of Crea’s new family’s living room. This was not what they’d hoped for during their last years of graduate school.

As they get ready to launch their next line of magical sex toys in their successful business venture, A Lick of Magic, the secret society continues to haunt the girls. Tempting them with glamor and wealth. Prestige. Extravagant promises of success. Trying to convince them that it was all a misunderstanding – they weren’t hurting the demon but helping him.

After all, witches don’t go missing at Satan’s Touch. This new society swears that they’ve been trying to find those who go missing. The girls are about to find out just what lies within the walls, whether they like it or not.

***

This is a LGBT+ story with content not intended for those under 18 years of age due to graphic scenes and situations.

•••••

REVIEW:This starts where the last book ends (so it would be prudent to read book one before book two)

This series revolves around a coven of witches who start a business selling toys. s£x toys? to be exact, and it’s a thriving business, all whilst trying to finish their schooling. Oh and don’t forget the men/demons and shifters who enter their lives and remain there. And a society that want them to join up!!

Each book is just a continuation of the previous book, points of view from everyone is mentioned (but you’ll get the hang of it pretty quick)but has lots of interaction with the coven. It’s also got an understory (a secret society want the girls to join them!) there is plenty of laughter in this book, we have drama also (a demon is rescued and healed within the coven) and we get plenty of spicy moments?

There is also a murder to solve. But obstacles are being thrown out, the girls will need their wits about them to work out who is doing this (my money is on the secret society ?) and after being kidnapped Crea, Sinclair, Elizabeth, Indie, and Devyn now have to be extra vigilant!!

I’m really enjoying this series, it’s written differently from other books. Although none of the books are really dedicated to one person, you do get a little more time with a female from the coven. Sinclair and her males are given this book, but it doesn’t stop other characters having chapters in this book.
I really like the secret society (although not really good guys, it’s more of dark and sinister, they are happy to sacrifice whom ever to gain power)

A fast paced read with action/adventure/murder and mystery. And lots of spicy moments ?

Cliffhanger alert!! It does end on a cliffhanger, but so did book one… something I need to just let happen ?

Need the next book to see who is left standing…..

Click HERE for Julie’s review of book one A LICK OF MAGIC

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B .?

Crea lives in upstate New York with her dog and husband. She has been writing since grade school, when her second grade teacher had her class keep writing journals. She has a habit of creating secondary, and often time tertiary, characters that take over her stories. All of her RH relationships end up being heavily polyamorous – meaning it’s not just all the men for one woman. There’s also some M/M action going on. When she can’t fall asleep at night, she thinks up new scenes for her characters to act out. This, of course, is how most of her meant-to-be-thrown-away characters tend to end up front and center – and utterly swoon-worthy! Don’t ask her how many book boyfriends she has…

When not writing, Crea is an avid reader. Her TBR pile is several hundred books high (don’t even look at her kindle wish list or the unread books on her tablet). Sometimes, she enjoys crafting; sometimes, exploring nature; sometimes, traveling. Mostly, she enjoys putting her characters on paper and breathing life into them. Oh, and sleeping. Crea loves to sleep!

Author Links:

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Taming the White Wolf by NJ Walters-Review & Giveaway tour

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Taming the White Wolf by NJ Walters-review, excerpt & giveaway tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 24, 2023

The lone wolf answers to no alpha or pack. From his first transformation, he knows his destiny: to be both judge and executioner for rogue werewolves. Welcome to the spellbinding first book in New York Times bestselling author N.J. Walters intense new werewolf series.

White wolf Devlin Moore has spent nearly the last century following his destiny: hunting rogue werewolves. His fate is to be the only one of his kind—hardened, feared, and brutally ruthless. Only now, Devlin’s not alone. There are two others. And if that wasn’t unsettling enough, Devlin is drawn to New York City for what appears to be a human…

As far as Devlin can tell, vibrant artist Zoe Galvani is no threat. But there’s something about her— from her unusual eyes that look similar to the same shocking hue as his own, to his growing need to mark her as his that suggests magical forces may be at play.

Now there’s no escaping each other, or the attraction that grows stronger by the second. But no one, especially a human woman, should have this effect on a lone wolf. And just when he’s sure that having her could be his undoing…the truth steps out of the shadows.

•••••

REVIEW:Devlin is a White Wolf. His job is to police the werewolf society. It’s a thankless and lonely job. He is the only Lone Wolf that will do this job until his death (then another will be appointed and then the legend will go on) but Devlin isn’t the only Lone Wolf! There is also a Grey and a Black wolf out there! Devlin has never met them, doesn’t even know their names! But he’s aware of them and tracks where they are when possible!

Zoe is a whizz on the laptop, her hours and her time is to do with as she pleases. Being her own boss affords Zoe the luxury of being late/absent minded and working on her own. Was this the cause of being in the foster care system? Is this why she had no real friends ? (The one true friend is a total user in my opinion) Even so Zoe tries not to be too down on herself and her life!

Being saved by a handsome stranger (she almost got run over by a car) is ok, it’s great in fact…. Being stalked by said stranger and almost kissed is probably not so great. Being stalked as she walks home, definitely not great! But she didn’t really feel unsafe with him! Poor Zoe, she thinks she’s going a little crazy!!
And then when Devlin’s world crashes into Zoe’s world, all bets are off! She’s gone crazy… how in the world can there be Shifters/Mages and Magic? It doesn’t exist, it can’t be real! Can it?

I did like that Zoe never really wimped out, damsel in distress? Nope not Zoe. She might chat to herself (who doesn’t) but she never gives up (she even manages to help Devlin once or twice)

Devlin can’t help the way he is, it’s his job to protect… But this fragile human female has him tied in knots! His inner wolf keeps shouting MINE! That doesn’t help at all! Power hungry Alpha wolves just want to make his life difficult, the Mages are after something (is it to do with the legacy?) and all Devlin can think of is how he can kiss this stubborn female again!!

I did like both of the main characters. I loved Zoe’s quirkiness, the fact she chatted to herself (something I do a lot) had me smiling. Her willingness to help other at the cost of her own safety had me cheering through the book. Like most males in books “I don’t need help” soon turns into “I need you” I like the fact he won’t listen to his inner wolf (well not at first)

I won’t lie, I was hoping we would see a dark Angel or a large surly dragon (these are characters from a previous series) but being told this was a different series, so no visits from them did take a while to sink in. But that’s not to say I don’t love this new trilogy/series. It’s a fast paced book. Full of action and adventure.

So can Devlin work out why the legacy/legend of one Lone Wolf at a time has come undone? Can Zoe really be a help? Or will she be a total hindrance? What are the Mages up to? And are Devlin and Zoe the start of something bigger?

A highly recommend read. And I’ll be grabbing the next one as soon as it’s written.

?

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Julie B

 

Whoever this woman was, she was pure temptation, a dangerous distraction he didn’t need. If anything, he needed to keep his guard up until he discovered why he’d been drawn to her.

She licked her lips again. Unable to resist, he leaned toward her. When she didn’t object, he brushed his mouth against hers. Lust roared through him like a runaway freight train. He almost staggered under the onslaught. Every muscle in his chest rippled as her hand skimmed over it before settling on his shoulder.

Mine! The possessive impulse caught him off guard. Wolves mated for life, but not lone wolves. As the name implied, they were solitary creatures by necessity.

Inhaling sharply, he sorted through myriad scents. Beneath the layers of sweat, liquor, and artificial fragrance lay a richer one—sweet with a hint of arousal—hers. It went straight to his dick, making it throb. Then he caught a darker, musky scent mixed with a hint of blood.

A low growl escaped him before he could swallow it back. Everything inside him stilled as he scented his quarry. Needing to be sure, he buried his face against her neck and shoulder. It was stronger near her back. There was no mistaking it. This was no mere brush from someone passing by. The rogue had marked her with several drops of his blood.

Either she was involved with the rogue he was hunting, or the male had watched him save her life earlier and decided to draw her into their deadly game of hide-and-seek. Whatever the reason, she’d been marked. Rogues chose their victims at random to leave no pattern to track, but this was deliberate.


 

 

Once upon a time N.J. had the idea that she would like to quit her job at the bookstore, sell everything she owned, leave her hometown, and write romance novels in a place where no one knew her. And she did. Two years later, she went back to the bookstore and her hometown and settled in for another seven years.

One day she gave notice at her job on a Friday morning. On Sunday afternoon, she received a tentative acceptance for her first romance novel and life would never be the same.

N.J. Walters is a New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author who has always been a voracious reader, and now she spends her days writing novels of her own. Vampires, werewolves, dragons, time-travelers, seductive handymen, and next-door neighbors with smoldering good looks–all vie for her attention. It’s a tough life, but someone’s got to live it.

 

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