DUTY AND DESIRE anthology by Kristen Ashley, Kylie Scott et al

DUTY AND DESIRE ANTHOLOGY by Kristen Ashley, Kylie Scott, Rebecca Zanetti-review tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 12, 2025

Honor, protection, and undeniable chemistry. Duty and Desire brings you heroes in uniform—bodyguards, soldiers, and law enforcers—who will do whatever it takes to protect the ones they love. Filled with action, danger, and steamy romance, these stories prove that sometimes the greatest battles are fought with the heart.

Includes:
Keeping You by Aurora Rose Reynolds
Quiet Man by Kristen Ashley
Closer by Kylie Scott
and
Vengeance by Rebecca Zanetti

__________

QUIET MAN by Kristen Ashley

QUIET MAN is the prequel novella in Kristen Ashley’s contemporary, adult DREAM TEAM and 4.5 in the author’s DREAM MAN romance series, a part of the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights. This is security specialist Kim Seamus ‘Mo’ Morrison, and stripper Charlotte ‘Lottie’ McAlister’s story line. QUIET MAN can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalments is revealed where necessary. QUIET MAN crosses over with, and reintroduced characters from the author’s Rock Chick and Chaos MC series.

Told from first person (Lottie) and third person (Mo, Smithie, Hawk) QUIET MAN focuses on the search for a stalker. Charlotte ‘Lottie’ McAlister is an exotic dancer; a stripper with a large following but Lottie is unaware that someone is sending letters, threatening our heroine and the people she knew. Enter Kim Seamus ‘Mo’ Morrison, assigned to guard and protect Charlotte McAlister, a former US Army soldier and a man with dark demons from the past. With the help of his former teammates, Smithie and his men, Mo becomes guardian and protector of the woman with whom he will fall in love, as the stalker gets a little too close for comfort.

The relationship between Lottie and Mo begins a protection but Lottie is hoping for something more. Mo has been burned in the past, and doesn’t do relationship while on duty, and Lottie is Mo’s priority, the woman that calls to his heart. 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, charismatic and familiar secondary and supporting characters including many from the author’s interconnected series including the Rock Chick and Chaos MC series. We are introduced to Mo’s extended family, both blood and otherwise, including his team and friends from his time in the military.

QUIET MAN is a story of obsession and delusion, family and friendships, relationships and love. the fast paced premise is dramatic and edgy; the romance is seductive; the characters are energetic, desperate and determined

••••••••

CLOSER by Kylie Scott

CLOSER by Kylie Scott is instalment 4.6 in the author’s contemporary, adult STAGE DIVE rock romance series focusing in the members of the rock band Stage Dive. This is security specialist (aka executive protection officer) and former military man Ziggy Thayer, and model Mae Cooper’s story line. CLOSER can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from first person point of view (Mae Cooper) CLOSER follows the building relationship between security specialist (aka executive protection officer) and former military man Ziggy Thayer, and model Mae Cooper. Mae Cooper has a stalker whose ‘gifts’ have become more menacing and threatening. Living in the same secure building as the members of the band Stage Dive, at the suggestion of Lena Ferris, Mae is about to face her future in the guise of a personal bodyguard. Enter executive protection officer Ziggy Thayer, and the man with whom Mae will fall in love. What ensues is the building relationship and romance between Mae and Ziggy, and the potential fall-out as Mae’s past collides with her present and her future.

The relationship between Mae and Ziggy is one of immediate attraction but Mae doesn’t think she needs protection as Ziggy goes above and beyond to protect the woman with whom he will fall in love. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

The secondary and supporting characters included cameo appearances by some of the members of the rock band Stage Dive, as well we their significant others. CLOSER does not focus on the band but on their extended group of friends and acquaintances.

CLOSER is a quick read; a story of betrayal and obsession; of second chances and falling in love. The premise is fast paced and engaging; the characters are colorful and energetic; the romance is seductive but I struggled with the lack of palpable sexual attraction-I didn’t feel the raw and intense desire that I have come to expect from Kylie Scott.

•••••••••

VENGEANCE by Rebecca Zanetti

VENGEANCE by Rebecca Zanetti is instalment 10.5 in the author’s contemporary, adult DARK PROTECTORS paranormal, romance series.This is hybrid vampire/demon and assassin/mercenary Noah Siosal, and Abby Miller’s story line. VENGEANCE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Noah and Abby) VENGEANCE introduces a new series arc starting with hybrid vampire/demon and assassin/mercenary Noah Siosal, and Abby Miller. Abby Miller has been ordered to anger management for a crime she did not commit but Abby’s anger management class is filled with an odd assortment of strange, intriguing and otherworldly beings, one with whom Abby will fall in love. As Abby’s life continues to spiral out of control, Noah becomes guardian and protector for the woman who would become his mate. As Noah hunts for the man that killed his best friend, he struggles to keep Abby safely out of reach of her former spouse.

VENGEANCE has a little bit of everything: fun, humor, conflict, death, threats and love. The immortals attending anger management are quite the eclectic group of hybrids, purebreds, demons and vampires-all looking for something or someone in order to move forward with their latest assignments. The character driven premise is entertaining and spirited; the romance is fast and furious; the characters are sexy, sassy, energetic and feisty.

Reviews by Sandy

KRISTEN ASHLEY

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Kristen Ashley was born in Gary, Indiana, USA. She nearly killed her mother and herself making it into the world, seeing as she had the umbilical cord wrapped around her neck (already attempting to accessorise and she hadn’t taken her first breath!).

Kristen grew up in Brownsburg, Indiana but has lived in Denver, Colorado and the West Country of England. Thus she has been blessed to have friends and family around the globe. Her posse is loopy (to say the least) but loopy is good when you want to write.

********

KYLIE SCOTT

Kylie is a long time fan of erotic love stories and B-grade horror films. She demands a happy ending and if blood and carnage occur along the way then all the better. Based in Queensland, Australia with her two children and one delightful husband, she reads, writes and never dithers around on the internet

Stalk Kylie Scott: Website | Facebook  | Goodreads | Amazon Author Page

**********

REBECCA ZANETTI

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti has worked as an art curator, Senate aide, lawyer, college professor, and a hearing examiner – only to culminate it all in stories about Alpha males and the women who claim them. She writes contemporary romances, dark paranormal romances, and romantic suspense novels.
Growing up amid the glorious backdrops and winter wonderlands of the Pacific Northwest has given Rebecca fantastic scenery and adventures to weave into her stories. She resides in the wild north with her husband, children, and extended family who inspire her every day—or at the very least give her plenty of characters to write about.

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One Dark Kiss (Grimm Bargains 2) by Rebecca Zanetti-review

One Dark Kiss (Grimm Bargains 2) by Rebecca Zanetti-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 24, 2025

Mirror, Mirror . . . Innocence or Sin. The reflection holds a darker truth.

ALEXEI
I’ve spent the last seven years in the hell of a maximum-security prison, every moment consumed by the need for revenge—revenge against the bastards who framed me, and revenge against the family who stole everything I owned. Now that I’m finally free, nothing will stand in my way. Not even her—my hot as sin new lawyer. Maybe she’s another weapon sent by my enemies to break me, or maybe she’s the key to my freedom. Either way, once she’s mine, I’m never letting her go.

ROSALIE
When I took this case, I thought I had it under control. But Alexei is no typical convicted killer—he’s a dangerously seductive force of nature. Perhaps it’s the lingering power from his days as heir to a global social media empire. Innocent or not, he’s dangerous in the worst and best ways.

I secure Alexei’s release as we prepare for a new trial, but he wastes no time turning against his traitorous relatives and plotting his return to power. Amidst the chaos, our explosive chemistry ignites, putting us—and everyone I care about—in the crosshairs of ruthless enemies. If we can’t stop them, Alexei plans to burn the whole world down. And if anything, he’s a man of his word .

••••

REVIEW: ONE DARK KISS is the second instalment in Rebecca Zanetti’s contemporary, adult GRIMM BARGAINS erotic, fantasy romance series focusing on four powerful families with affinities to gemstones. This is Bratva leader and heir to the Hologrid Hub Alexei Sokolov and attorney Rosalie Mooncrest’s story line. ONE DARK KISS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

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

SOME BACKGROUND: There are four (plus one more?) powerful families with affinities to gemstones, vying for control of social media. The more followers and likes, the more power and life force is gained by those in charge. Along with the social media and influencers, the lives of the four families are ‘powered’ by the gemstones, gemstones that are the life-force of the families and their heirs.

Told from three first person perspectives (Alexei, Rosalie, Ella) ONE DARK KISS focuses on Rosalie’s struggle to prove Alexei Sokolov’s innocence. Seven years earlier, Alexei Sokolov was charged with, and convicted of murder, and in the interim, the family owned Hologrid Hub struggled without the aid of our story line hero. The family business is dependent upon, and pulls their energy from the power of the amethyst, and Alexei Sokolov has the strongest affinity to the gemstone, in the family but desperate to prove his innocence, Alexei hires attorney Rosalie Mooncrest with the hope of gaining a new trial. When Rosalie begins a deeper dive searching for the truth, our couple are targeted, leaving a trail of bodies in their wake.

The world building focuses on the fight for control of Hologrid Hub, a 3D holographic social media platform but Alexei must first regain control of the Sokolov Crime Family, ferreting out those determined to take them down but as Rosalie continues to uncover Alexei’s secrets, our heroine finds herself at the mercy of the man with whom she is falling in love.

The relationship between Alexei and Rosalie begins as attorney and client, and Rosalie has no idea as to the true extent of Alexei’s power. As Alexei regains control of the crime family, someone else is taking aim at our story line heroine. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative without the use of over the top,sexually graphic language and text .

There is a large ensemble cast of charismatic and interesting secondary and supporting characters including the return of Malice Media owner Thorn Beathach, and Aquarius Social media head Alana Rose Beaumont (One Cursed Rose #1), and hacker Ella Rendale. We are introduced to Alexei’s second Garik Petrov, several attorneys, law enforcement, as well as Rosalie’s seven elderly boarders who are much more than they appear to be.

ONE DARK KISS is a story of secrets and lies, power and control, magic and obsession, dysfunctional family dynamics, acceptance and love. The premise is dramatic and edgy; the romance is seductive and fated; the characters are determined, dynamic and intriguing.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one ONE CURSED ROSE

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti has worked as an art curator, Senate aide, lawyer, college professor, and a hearing examiner – only to culminate it all in stories about Alpha males and the women who claim them. She writes contemporary romances, dark paranormal romances, and romantic suspense novels.
Growing up amid the glorious backdrops and winter wonderlands of the Pacific Northwest has given Rebecca fantastic scenery and adventures to weave into her stories. She resides in the wild north with her husband, children, and extended family who inspire her every day—or at the very least give her plenty of characters to write about.

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Prince of Darkness (Dark Protectors 17) by Rebecca Zanetti-review

Prince of Darkness (Dark Protectors 17) by Rebecca Zanetti-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 29, 2025

Unknown to humans, beyond daylight lies a world of intoxicating darkness where deadly creatures prowl with insatiable desires and unbelievable power: vampires, demons, witches, shifters. When vulnerable humans find themselves thrust into that realm, they’ll never be the same. . .

In the aftermath of war, a fragile peace hovers between the Kurjan nation and the Dark Protector coalition. Yet amid labyrinthine politics and intrigue, Vero Phoenix, a Kurjan, stands apart. He has lived devoid of legacy or lineage—until the day he backed his newfound brother as king, putting himself into the treacherous position of enforcer and shield. Yet there is another thorn in his side, no less vexing, undeniably captivating—and all-too-human . . .

Lyrica Graves was once ensnared by Kurjan captors and now embodies defiance and freedom as she guides other women to independence and modernity. She is particularly amused—and breathtakingly challenged—by her battles with Vero. But their clashing also belies a sizzling connection, a dark attraction between supernatural and fully human that threatens their chosen destinies and makes them a target for far too many bloodthirsty enemies .

•••••

REVIEW: PRINCE OF DARKNESS is the seventeenth full-length instalment in Rebecca Zanetti’s contemporary, adult DARK PROTECTORS paranormal/ fantasy romance series. This is Kurjan Prince Vero Phoenix, and human empath Lyrica Graves’ story line. PRINCE OF DARKNESS can be read as a stand alone but for backstory and cohesion, I recommend reading the series in order or at the very least, reading WARRIOR’S HOPE. PRINCE OF DARKNESS is the start of a new series arc focusing on the Kurjan nation.

SOME BACKGROUND: For thousands of years the Kurjan empire had been at war with the Realm. Like the vampires, there were no females Kurjans, and the Kurjan nation would kidnap and claim enhanced human females as their mates, but the mating between half vampire/ half human Hope Kayrs-Kyllwood, the Realm King’s daughter, and the new king of the Kurjan nation Paxton Phoenix would begin to solidify a tentative peace treaty but some of the Kurjans refuse to bow to the King of the Realm, and the Kurjan nation is at war with itself.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Vero and Lyrica) PRINCE OF DARKNESS follows the building relationship between Kurjan Prince Vero Phoenix, and human empath Lyrica Graves. Struggling in his position as second in line, Prince Vero Phoenix declares himself guardian and protector of his half brother, the King, but the presence of the female human empath Lyrica Graves stirs something deep within our story line hero. Vero never expected to mate or fall in love but the rescue, arrival and murder of several human females finds Vero decidedly protective of our story line heroine. Someone is targeting the Kurjans, and Vero is determined to find out why.

The world building opens up an entirely new direction for the Dark Protectors series. The Kurjans and their spiritual leaders the Cysts were and some continue to be the enemy of the Realm but like all hate there is usually a precipitating factor or someone pushing the buttons behind the scenes.

The relationship between Lyrica and Vero is an enemies to friends to lovers relationship in which Vero struggles with his attraction to the feisty heroine. Lyrica Graves is an independent human female, a woman with empathic powers, but a woman who refuses to obey the orders of any man including the man with whom she is falling in love. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate and intense.

There is a large ensemble cast of powerful, energetic and sometimes questionable secondary and supporting characters including numerous Kurjan warriors -Jonathan and Silas, tech genius Lukas and Genevieve, several mated couples including Maeve and Ralstad; as well as the return of Paxton and Hope, twins Liam and Collin, Vero’s best friend Hunter, Benjamin Reese and his mate Karma, Dr. Fizzlewick, King Zane, and Queen Janie Kayrs. The requisite evil has many faces.

PRINCE OF DARKNESS is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance,madness and murder, family and friendships, relationships and love. The character driven premise is action packed, intriguing, enchanting, and dramatic; the characters are charismatic and determined; the romance is fated yet flawed.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Fated
Claimed
Tempted
Hunted
Consumed
Provoked
Twisted
Shadowed
Tamed
Marked
Teased
Tricked
Tangled
Talen
Vampire’s Faith
Demon’s Mercy
Vengeance
Alpha’s Promise
Hero’s Haven
Vixen
Guardian’s Grace
Vampire
Rebel’s Karma
Immortal’s Honor
Garrett’s Destiny
A Vampire’s Kiss
Warrior’s Hope
A Vampire’s Mate

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti has worked as an art curator, Senate aide, lawyer, college professor, and a hearing examiner – only to culminate it all in stories about Alpha males and the women who claim them. She writes contemporary romances, dark paranormal romances, and romantic suspense novels.
Growing up amid the glorious backdrops and winter wonderlands of the Pacific Northwest has given Rebecca fantastic scenery and adventures to weave into her stories. She resides in the wild north with her husband, children, and extended family who inspire her every day—or at the very least give her plenty of characters to write about.

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YOU CAN KILL (Laurel Snow Thriller 4) by Rebecca Zanetti-review

YOU CAN KILL (Laurel Snow Thriller 4) by Rebecca Zanetti-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 22, 2024

A string of brutal murders is leaving a grisly trail across the Pacific Northwest—and drawing rising star FBI profiler Laurel Snow back into a treacherous case and a twisted personal drama she can’t escape . . .

The first body is torn apart, blood and flesh discovered across both state and federal lands. As the victims multiply, a pattern emerges—each is related to past cases investigated by Laurel Snow, with the assist of Huck Rivers, Washington Fish and Wildlife captain. When friends and loved ones are targeted, things become even more chillingly personal.

As Laurel and Huck team up again to navigate the gruesome and increasingly bizarre killings, they must also keep a safe distance from Laurel’s half-sister, Abigail, a dangerously clever sociopath. Ever since their father reappeared in town, Abigail has been convinced she must protect Laurel from his malignant narcissism—a scourge she’s sure they’ve both inherited. Huck is not spared either as a shocking development in the case touches his own life.

With the murders, and the suspects, multiplying around them, and the lives of everyone in their orbit at stake, only Laurel’s sharp analytic skills, Huck’s deep gut instincts, and their growing bond will enable them to face the demons within and the threats without—before they’re next on an elusive killer’s hit list .

•••••

REVIEW:  YOU CAN KILL is the fourth instalment in Rebecca Zanetti’s contemporary, adult LAUREL SNOW suspense thriller focusing on FBI Special Profiler Laurel Snow. YOU CAN KILL 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 an ongoing plot line throughout.

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

Told from several omniscient third person perspectives including Laurel, following several interconnected pathways, YOU CAN KILL continues to focus on Laurel Snow’s investigation into the father she never knew, and a half sister whose proclivities are questionable and dark. Someone is taking aim at the women of Genesis Valley, and Laurel begins to suspect an escaped serial killer is purposely making her life difficult. All of the victims are blonde, and may or may not have a connection to our story line heroine, and as the numbers increase, so too do the accusations against Laurel and the man that she loves. Meanwhile a social media journalist, one who has a past with Huck Rivers, fuels the accusations with her attempts at revenge, revenge that make her a target of a crazed serial killer.

The world building is complex and detailed as we are up close and personal with Laurel and Huck, victims and killers, suspects and madness. Laurel Snow believes she knows the people responsible but outside interference and a need for vengeance threaten Laurel’s investigation when the people at the top, take over.

The relationship between Captain Huck Rivers and FBI profiler Laurel Snow continues to be both professional and personal. Laurel and Huck’s romance is more than a passing, as they begin to make plans for a future together in Genesis Valley.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and questionable secondary and supporting characters including many of whom we met in the previous story lines: Laurel’s half sister Dr. Abigail Caine, their father Pastor Zeke Caine; Laurel’s mom Deidre, podcaster Rachel Raprenzi, as well as several locals, victims, and survivors.

YOU CAN KILL is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, madness and murder, social and pathological behaviors. The premise is thrilling, dramatic, haunting and twisted; the characters are animated, tragic and brutal.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

You Can Run
You Can Hide
You Can Die

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti has worked as an art curator, Senate aide, lawyer, college professor, and a hearing examiner – only to culminate it all in stories about Alpha males and the women who claim them. She writes contemporary romances, dark paranormal romances, and romantic suspense novels.
Growing up amid the glorious backdrops and winter wonderlands of the Pacific Northwest has given Rebecca fantastic scenery and adventures to weave into her stories. She resides in the wild north with her husband, children, and extended family who inspire her every day—or at the very least give her plenty of characters to write about.

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A VAMPIRE’S MATE (Dark Protectors / Rebels) by Rebecca Zanetti

A VAMPIRE’S MATE (Dark Protectors 16.5/ Rebels) by Rebecca Zanetti-review tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 3, 2024

There’s nothing Jasper Maxwell likes better than a good chase. He is patient and cunning, and he is known as one of the coldest hunters in the immortal realm. As a vampire with a hint of demon blood in him, he stands out even amongst the finest trackers in the shifter world. So the fact that his mate has managed to escape him for the past five decades is something that keeps him intrigued and more obsessed with every passing year. The game is beyond delicious until a century old enemy resurfaces, putting his sweet little mate in danger. At that point, he has no choice but to secure her.

Leah Ferry enjoys immortality almost as much as she thrills at the cat and mouse game she’s playing with the Maxwell hunter. Once human, she figured she’d live her life wearing pearls and vacuuming in pressed dresses only to be thrown into the immortal world where freedom is intoxicating. On a mission to take down degenerate humans and make them pay, things go wrong, so per her usual arrangement, she starts to run. But this time, her sexy and deadly vampire mate stands in her way. She quickly learns that the sensual chase between them was nothing compared to the real danger coming for her.

••••

REVIEW:  A VAMPIRE’S MATE is instalment 16.5 in Rebecca Zanetti’s contemporary, adult DARK PROTECTORS / REBELS crossover, and a part of the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights series. This is four-hundred year old vampire Jasper Maxwell, and spy Leah Ferry’s story line. A VAMPIRE’S MATE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary but some prior knowledge or background information may be required.

Some background: The vampires and their enemy the Kurjans are currently existing in a tepid détente but all is not well as it concerns the Maxwell family. The brokered peace is not acceptable by the family that continues to blame the Maxwell’s for thousands of years of war.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Leah and Jasper) A VAMPIRE’S MATE focuses on the tempestuous relationship between our story line couple. In 1944, Leah Ferry worked as a spy but a mission that went all to h*ll left Leah battling to survive if not for the intervention of vampire Jasper Maxwell.Jasper Maxwell knew Leah was his mate, and he desperately wanted to save the woman who would become the bane of his existence. Fast forward to present day, Jasper returns to claim the woman with whom he had fallen in love but Leah’s latest assignment place the couple in jeopardy as the hunt for the leader of a child trafficking ring takes aim at both Jasper and Leah.

The world building focuses on Leah’s determination to hunt and take down the men who procure and use humans as their playthings and slaves. Jasper Maxwell has reached the end of his tether, and his need to re-claim his mate is paramount to their survival.

The relationship between Jasper and Leah begins as a rescue but Leah wants nothing to do with being tied down to a man for all eternity. As an enhanced female, Leah is the perfect match for our story line hero but Leah’s need to be independent threatens the relationship going forward. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.

The secondary and supporting characters include Jasper’s brothers Klyde and Dax, their mother Odette, and sister Nia. The requisite evil has many faces.

A VAMPIRE’S MATE is a fast paced story of power and control, secrets and obsession, family and friendships, relationships and love. The action packed premise is enchanting and consuming; the romance is limited ; the characters are determined, powerful and dynamic.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Fated
Claimed
Tempted
Hunted
Consumed
Provoked
Twisted
Shadowed
Tamed
Marked
Teased
Tricked
Tangled
Talen
Vampire’s Faith
Demon’s Mercy
Vengeance
Alpha’s Promise
Hero’s Haven
Vixen
Guardian’s Grace
Vampire
Rebel’s Karma
Immortal’s Honor
Garrett’s Destiny
A Vampire’s Kiss
Warrior’s Hope

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti has worked as an art curator, Senate aide, lawyer, college professor, and a hearing examiner – only to culminate it all in stories about Alpha males and the women who claim them. She writes contemporary romances, dark paranormal romances, and romantic suspense novels.
Growing up amid the glorious backdrops and winter wonderlands of the Pacific Northwest has given Rebecca fantastic scenery and adventures to weave into her stories. She resides in the wild north with her husband, children, and extended family who inspire her every day—or at the very least give her plenty of characters to write about.

Website  * Facebook * Amazon * Goodreads

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One Cursed Rose (Grimm Bargains 1) by Rebecca Zanetti-review

One Cursed Rose (Grimm Bargains 1) by Rebecca Zanetti-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 25, 2024

Information is power, and those who control it live like gods.
In my world, billionaires play deadly games of insult and influence where magic is the dirtiest weapon of all. Here, even a powerful princess can be swallowed by the darkest of shadows . . .

My name is Alana Beaumont, and due to a recent tragedy, I’m the sole heir to Aquarius Social, a family business being systematically dismantled by an unseen enemy. My father’s solution is to give me in marriage and create a coalition with a competing family, so I’m torn between my thirst for revenge and my duty. Now I just have a week to finish my hunt before the wedding.

There’s nothing like an assassination attempt to cut short the best of plans—even worse is my unwanted rescue by Thorn Beathach, the Beast whose social media empire is driving Aquarius under. The richest, most ruthless of them all, he protects his realm with an iron rule: no one sees his face. When he shows himself to me, I know he’ll never let me go.

Adam may think he can lock me in his castle forever, but I’m not the docile Beauty he expects. If the Beast wants to tie me up, I’m going to take pleasure from every minute of it . . .and we’ll just see who ends up shackled.

••••

REVIEW:ONE CURSED ROSE is the first instalment in Rebecca Zanetti’s contemporary, adult GRIMM BARGAINS dark, erotic, urban fantasy, sci-fi series focusing on four powerful families with affinities to gemstones. This is Malice Media owner Thorn Beathach, and Aquarius Social media head Alana Rose Beaumont’s story line.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise including violence and questionable consent, there WILL BE triggers for more sensitive readers.

IMPORTANT: If you have not read ONE CURSED ROSE, there may be spoilers in my review.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Thorn and Alana) ONE CURSED ROSE follows in the wake of the abduction of our story line heroine. There are four powerful families with affinities to gemstones, vying for control of social media. The more followers and likes, the more power and life force is gained by those in charge. Along with the social media and influencers, the lives of the four families are ‘powered’ by the gemstones, gemstones that are the life-force of the families and their heirs. Alana’s father Maurice has offered his daughter to one of the other social media families in an effort to prop up their numbers and gemstone powers but someone else is watching from the shadows, someone who is determined to claim Alana as his own. Enter Thorn Beathach, the scarred and dangerous owner of Malice Media, and the man with whom Alana will fall in love. What ensues is the building but tempestuous relationship between Alana and Thorn, and the fall-out as Thorn is targeted, and Alana must find a way to save the man that she loves.

The world building is complex and complicated. A Mafia-style control of power between the four ruling families, families with affinities to gemstones, families that are willing to bargain with the lives of their own in an effort to secure more influence, more potential, more likes and more gems…but…there is a large disconnect between the premise and a lack of information regarding the big six-who, what, where, when, why and how -as to the connection between the gemstones and social media- and the life force held within both. With a number of instalments planned for the future, some background information and history is needed to unravel the confusion. The premise focuses on priori knowledge-knowledge that is acquired independently of experience or prior knowledge to the reader, and in that, there are too many unanswered questions.

The relationship between Alana and Thorn begins as an abduction. Alana will be kept a virtual prisoner as Thorn struggles to uncover who or what has targeted Malice Media. There are a number of theories in play but Thorn needs to take control of our story line heroine as she is the one who can melt the ice that is taking hold. The $ex scenes are erotic and provocative with some issues of questionable consent..

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, powerful and energetic secondary and supporting characters including several members of competing media power houses. Everyone becomes suspect when Thorn’s life hangs in the balance but it is our heroine who will face the biggest challenge when the truth is revealed.

ONE CURSED ROSE is a dark, intricate and entangled story of power and control, secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, obsession and madness, acceptance and love. The premise is haunting and raw; the romance is twisted and edgy; the characters are animated, determined and tragic.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti has worked as an art curator, Senate aide, lawyer, college professor, and a hearing examiner – only to culminate it all in stories about Alpha males and the women who claim them. She writes contemporary romances, dark paranormal romances, and romantic suspense novels.
Growing up amid the glorious backdrops and winter wonderlands of the Pacific Northwest has given Rebecca fantastic scenery and adventures to weave into her stories. She resides in the wild north with her husband, children, and extended family who inspire her every day—or at the very least give her plenty of characters to write about.

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FROSTBITTEN (Deep Ops 6) by Rebecca Zanetti -a review

FROSTBITTEN (Deep Ops 6) by Rebecca Zanetti-a review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 2, 2024

Enigmatic. With a wildly gifted mind, and an untamed head of hair to match, petite powerhouse Millicent Frost is brilliant when it comes to gadgets and electronics—less so with people. After an attempt to bust a bank scam goes awry, Millie is in hot water with Homeland Security and targeted by lethal enemies. In the midst of the trouble, she heads home to help out with the family hunting and fishing business. But when their rival competitor and Millie’s ex is murdered, she’s the number one suspect . . .

Irresistible. Former Marine turned lawyer Scott Terentson devotes himself to getting his clients out of tricky binds. A loner, the last thing he wants is to belong to any team, yet the Deep Ops group considers him one of their own—and he pays the price by getting shot at by their enemies. Now Millie is seeking his help—just as he’s dealing with a brutal fail regarding a recent trial. Both are a headache, yet he’s drawn to Millie in spite of himself. They’re opposites, but maybe the old adage is true . . .

Electric. Working together, Millie and Scott soon have more on their hands than they bargained for as the danger escalates—along with the sizzling heat between them. And when a disappearance is thrown into the mix, all bets are off . . .

••••••

REVIEW:  FROSTBITTEN is the sixth instalment in Rebecca Zanetti’s contemporary, adult DEEP OPS romantic suspense series focusing on the men and women of the Requisition Force, Deep Ops Team, a division of the Homeland Defense Department ( HDD) of the FBI. This is former Marine Force Reconnaissance turned attorney Scott Terentson, and FBI Agent Millicent ‘Millie’ Frost’s story line FROSTBITTEN can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Scott and Millie) FROSTBITTEN follows several interconnected paths in the wake of an undercover investigation that collapsed when Millie was called in to testify at the divorce proceedings of the man in question. Placed on leave by Homeland Security, Millie heads home where she will be implicated in the murder of a small town hero, a murder that may or may not be connected to the trouble at work. Enter Scott Terentson, Millie’s attorney, and the man with whom our heroine will fall in love. As Scot and Millie struggle to prove Millie’s innocence, someone else is taking aim at our story line couple. What ensues is the building relationship between Scott and Millie, and the potential fall-out as more than one person takes aim at our story line heroine.

The world building is complex and detailed, with several potential suspects, numerous accusations and finger pointing, as well as the couple’s connections to the Requisition Force Deep Ops Team. Hoping to uncover the truth, Millie and Scott go it alone but as the investigation continues to spiral out of control, Scott calls in the team at Requisition Force, who have the ability to get the job done.

The relationship between Millie and Scott begins acrimoniously. Scott and Millie know one another from the HDD but when Scott interferes in Millie’s undercover operation, our couple find themselves working together to prove Millie’s innocence,in the wake of the overwhelming evidence that continues to grow. The $ex scenes are passionate and seductive.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, familiar and enterprising secondary and supporting characters including most of the Requisition Force Deep Ops Team, as well as new team members MI6 Agents Ian and Oliver Villan, Roscoe and Kat. We are introduced to Millie’s great aunt Mae, Chief Wyatt, several townies and former friends and frenemies who are willing to support our story line heroine. The requisite evil has many faces.

FROSTBITTEN is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, secrets and lies, greed and madness, friendships and relationships, acceptance and love. The premise is meticulous and multi-layered; the romance is spirited and heated; the characters are determined, daring and dynamic.

Previous Reviews and reading order

Hidden
Taken (1.5)
Fallen
Broken
Driven
Unforgiven

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Warrior’s Hope (Dark Protectors 16) by Rebecca Zanetti-review

Warrior’s Hope (Dark Protectors 16) by Rebecca Zanetti-review

 

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 3, 2023

As the only female vampire ever born, and the heir to two powerful immortal families, Hope Kayrs-Kyllwood has always felt the weight of fate and destiny. Now her heart is torn between two men and two different futures. It’s a choice between duty and love, peace and war, with the fate of everyone she loves hanging in the balance.

As the leader of the Kurjan nation, Drake has always known that mating Hope is the best path to avoiding war. He’s counting on her to know the same. . . . Paxton has been Hope’s best friend and protector since they were children. He would kill and die for her without a second thought. In fact, he’s always known that would be his path . . .

With deadly factions at her heels, Hope must decide whom to trust and where her loyalty lies—before the choice is taken away from her

••••

REVIEW:WARRIOR’S HOPE is the sixteenth full length instalment in Rebecca Zanetti’s contemporary, adult DARK PROTECTORS erotic, paranormal/fantasy series. This is Paxton Phoenix, Drake, and Hope Kayrs-Kyllwood’s story line. WARRIOR’S HOPE should not be read as a stand alone. I recommend reading the series in order, or at the very least, this particular arc of the series focusing on the group of Seven beginning with book eight VAMPIRE’S FAITH, as there is an on-going premise throughout. Hope, Phoenix and Drake’s story has been building throughout the series

SOME BACKGROUND: A thousand years earlier, a number of immortal warriors went through a ritual that, if they survived, hardened their bodies against attack, a ritual meant to create a group of Seven known as The Shield. The Shield was created to protect the world from an evil race of vampires known as the Kurjans, their sect group known as the Cysts, and ultimately a rogue warrior once considered a friend- Ulric-a male of immense power. To protect the human race, Ulric was captured, and along with two of the Seven, was encapsulated in one of three spheres for all eternity but the spheres are no longer capable of holding the ‘Seven’, and the warriors have returned to Earth. As the warriors search for the ‘Keys’ to perform the ritual, the ‘Lock’ must be protected in order to take down the evil that is hoping to take over the world.

Told from a number of third person perspectives including Hope, Paxton and Drake, following several intersecting paths WARRIOR’S HOPE focuses on the impending war between the Realm of the supernatural and the Kurjan empire. Someone is determined to take control of the Kurjan empire but he must first set Ulric free. Ulric needs to destroy the Seven to gain his independence in an effort to dismantle and obliterate the Realm but Ulric’s only ally has other plans including claiming Hope Kayrs-Kyllwood as his mate. As the Realm prepares for war, Hope must come to terms with her destiny while Paxton discovers his entire life and history has been predicated upon a lie.

As per my last review, Hope Kayrs-Kyllwood is torn between friendship and love, duty and family as it pertains to her relationship with Paxton Phoenix, and the Kurjan warrior Drake, both young men who have now come into their prime and burgeoning powers. Drake, Paxton and Hope have been dream-walking together for years but betrayal will come at the cost of their friendships, a friendship predicated upon secrets and lies, and the hunt for power. Drake’s connection to the Kurjan and Cysts may be what takes down the Seven, a connection tightly woven with a young female who is purported to be the ‘hope’ of the immortal world.

Hope Kayrs-Kyllwood is desperate to uncover the truth. The direction she must take in an effort to destroy Ulric means there will be a sacrifice: the blood of the Keys, along with the Lock, are prophesized to work together, to merge their powers, to stop Ulric from taking control but someone else has set eyes on the top, and will use any means necessary including destroying family and friends, and the woman he once claimed to love.

WARRIOR’S HOPE is the final chapter in this particular arc of the series focusing on the Seven, Ulric, and Hope Kayrs-Kyllwood but Warrior’s Hope mainly concentrates on the breakdown of friendships, and the lies that will destroy Hope, Paxton and Drake. The secondary and supporting characters are numerous and familiar including the Seven, the Kings and leaders of the supernatural divisions of the Realm, as well as Hope’s parents, Paxton’s father, and Ulric.

Rebecca Zanetti pulls the reader into an action packed story of betrayal and vengeance, power and control, deception and double-cross, trust, acceptance, and love. The premise is intriguing, captivating and enthralling; the romance is fated and passionate; the characters are desperate, powerful, determined and dynamic.

 

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Fated
Claimed
Tempted
Hunted
Consumed
Provoked
Twisted
Shadowed
Tamed
Marked
Teased
Tricked
Tangled
Talen
Vampire’s Faith
Demon’s Mercy
Vengeance
Alpha’s Promise
Hero’s Haven
Vixen
Guardian’s Grace
Vampire
Rebel’s Karma
Immortal’s Honor
Garrett’s Destiny
A Vampire’s Kiss

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti has worked as an art curator, Senate aide, lawyer, college professor, and a hearing examiner – only to culminate it all in stories about Alpha males and the women who claim them. She writes contemporary romances, dark paranormal romances, and romantic suspense novels.
Growing up amid the glorious backdrops and winter wonderlands of the Pacific Northwest has given Rebecca fantastic scenery and adventures to weave into her stories. She resides in the wild north with her husband, children, and extended family who inspire her every day—or at the very least give her plenty of characters to write about.

Website  * Facebook * Amazon * Goodreads

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