Tag Archives: Redemption

Crazy Beautiful (Redemption #2) by Jessica Prince-Review Tour

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Crazy Beautiful (Redemption #2) by Jessica Prince-Review Tour

 

 

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 11, 2020

Their marriage was nothing more than a business transaction. Or at least that was what they told themselves.

Poppy Weston had been burned enough times by undeserving men to know her heart was best left under lock and key. She was content with her life, even with the lack of romance. Then Jase Hyland walked into Redbud Inn and offered her something she couldn’t refuse. In return, all she had to do was marry him.

Jase had seen firsthand the kind of damage relationships caused, and he wanted nothing to do with it. He’d been taught from a young age that the only things that should matter to a man were wealth and power. However, all it took was a series of events to lead him down a path he never expected to travel.

It was supposed to be simple. No feelings, no emotions, just two friends entering into a mutually beneficial arrangement.

He thought he had it all figured out . . . until he went and fell for his wife.

•••••••••

Sandy’s REVIEW: CRAZY BEAUTIFUL is the second instalment in Jessica Prince’s contemporary, adult REDEMPTION erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on the people who live and work in Redemption, Tennessee. This is thirty five year old, businessman Jase Hyland, and B&B owner Poppy Weston’s story line. CRAZY BEAUTIFUL can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

Told from three first person perspectives (Jase, Poppy, Bennett) CRAZY BEAUTIFUL follows the friends to lovers relationship between thirty five year old, businessman Jase Hyland, and B&B owner Poppy Weston. Several weeks earlier Jase Hyland discovered that his father had been embezzling from the family owned company but before Jase was able to ascend to the position of CEO, the board of directors demanded our hero marry or give up the position to his cousin Titus. With only one potential “wife” on the horizon, Jase asks his best friend Poppy if she would become his wife for the foreseeable future, in an effort for him to take over the Leadership of the company. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Jase and Poppy, and the potential fall-out as Jase’s family demands what they believe is their just due, targeting Poppy in the process.

Jase Hyland, a man-wh*re by reputation, continues to battle the demons from his past having suffered to protect his younger sister but Jase never expected to have to protect the woman with whom he is falling in love, protect her from the people who still continue to destroy so many lives. Poppy Weston knew that to marry Jase meant slowly succumbing to her falling heart but when Jase’s family sets their sights on our story line heroine, Poppy finds herself facing her own mortality for a man who has suffered for far too long.

The relationship between Jase and Poppy is a friends to lovers, fake marriage arrangement wherein Poppy reluctantly agrees to marry Jase in an effort to protect his heritage from falling into the wrong hands but Poppy knows she is about to lose her heart to a man who isn’t willing to settle down for the long haul. The $ex scenes are intimate erotic and seductive.

There is a large colorful ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Jase’s sister Farah Highland and Cannon Banks (Bad Alibi #1), Jase’s PA Wynn, his foster father Bennett ,handyman Clay, Jase’s parents Geoff and Margo, Special Forces soldiers Jensen, Lincoln, Hunter and Marco; Gavin Hendrix, and his sister Shane.

CRAZY BEAUTIFUL is a multi-troped story of family, friendships, betrayal and love. The fast paced premise is entertaining and engaging; the romance is captivating; the characters are energetic, dynamic and charismatic.CRAZY BEAUTIFUL is a compelling and wonderful addition to Jessica Prince’s REDEMPTION series.You can’t go wrong with this great story.

________

Sarah’s REVIEW “Jase Hyland, you’re my favorite person..”

The second in the Redemption series by Jessica Prince, and what a journey this one was…

Redemption isn’t just a place for Jase, it’s home. After finally freeing his sister from the hellish linage of his parents, Jase takes over Hyland Steel, the family company. This however comes with a cost. A cost he was more than willing to pay once he found the right person. To take the CEO position, all he had to do was marry…

Sounds easy right?

Poppy Weston gave 7 years to a man that hurt her, broke her heart and her wallet. Her little Inn was her pride and joy, but she was at her limit. When her best friend’s older brother comes home for his little sisters wedding, things might just get a little crazy. Jase and Poppy grew up together, have known each other for years, but came from two different worlds. When the Inn takes a turn for the worst, Jase swoops in for a save. A plan to help them both. To get married. A business deal, one to help them both.

Jase and Poppy tie the knot and their future begins, a future that neither of them thought possible. Soon Jase and Poppy can’t see the line they thought they drew before getting hitched, but they don’t care. Emotions that Jase thought were not possible blossom, and Poppy soon becomes a person that means more to him than anything.

The past however, doesn’t want to see Jase and Poppy happy and comes back to bite them.

Oh my! Jessica Prince has out done herself in this one. Crazy Beautiful is sure to warm the heart of anyone that reads it. This story is one of hope, love, trust and redemption. The characters have the best chemistry, the story line is detailed and progressive. As always the author gives us a little reprieve from the day to day of life and hope of love. 5 out of 5 star review, can’t wait for what comes next!

Copies supplied for review

 

 

 

 

Quiet rained down on the dimly lit back porch, oppressive and thick with the tension I’d unwittingly walked into.
I’d never done well with awkward silences. I had the nasty habit of rambling in an effort to fill the void any time I found myself in that situation. That compulsion came over me then, spurred on even more by the fact that any time I was in Jase Hyland’s orbit, I turned into a flustered, bumbling disaster.
“I’m so sorry. I wasn’t lurking, I swear. I honestly didn’t know you guys were out here. Then when I did, I wasn’t sure what to do. I kind of froze.”
The sigh he released before bringing the tumbler in his hands to his full, pouty lips and sucking back some of the amber liquid inside sounded like it carried the weight of the world.
“It’s all right, sweetheart. You didn’t do anything wrong.”
I began to fidget in place, shifting from foot to foot and wringing my fingers together in front of me as the full force of his attention hit me like a wrecking ball.
My heart was at risk of doing a Kool-Aid Man impersonation and busting through my chest at any second.
Even with half of his features still shrouded in darkness, I knew exactly what he looked like. I’d spent enough time watching him during his visits to see his sister that I’d managed to memorize every sinful inch of him. And yes, I realized that made me sound like a psycho creeper. But I couldn’t help myself.
His well-trimmed brown hair had just enough product in it to keep it from flopping over his forehead but wasn’t overly styled. By this time of night, there was bound to be a five-o’clock shadow dusted across a strong, square jawline. The bridge of his nose had a tiny bump, making it slightly imperfect, but still attractive on such a handsome face, and his sharp cheekbones made him look almost regal. He was like a slightly scruffed-up Chris Evans. In other words, gorgeous.
He wasn’t like any of the men I’d grown up around. Redemption, Tennessee had its fair share of attractive guys, believe me. But this man was different. Where the men in my town lived in T-shirts, jeans, and flannel, Jase was well-groomed, usually in slacks and a button-down.
From my vantage point, I could see that his shirt was opened casually at the collar, and the cuffs of his sleeves had been rolled up to expose solid, veined forearms. Arm porn at its finest. The shirt was fine quality, tailored to fit his broad shoulders and thick biceps perfectly.
As usual, his look screamed money, but not in a flashy way that said he was trying to show off. It was how he carried himself. His calm, cool confidence gave off that impression.
God, he’s gorgeous, I thought, as I continued staring, unable to pull my attention away from his perfect, masculine features. I’d never been so thankful for dim lighting. It was the only thing hiding the insane blush that burned through my cheeks and chest—just one of the curses of being a redhead. “I’ll just, uh . . .” I trailed off pathetically, hooking my thumb over my shoulder and taking a step back.
“No, stay.”
Two little words from his gorgeous mouth, and I felt the need to fan myself. Clenching my fists to keep from doing that, I took hesitant steps in his direction, bracing my hands on the railing around the porch once I finally reached his side.
I didn’t have the first clue what he and Bennett had been arguing about, but I couldn’t stand to see the blank, stoic look on a face that was normally so happy. I arched a playful brow and stated, “You look like you’re about two seconds away from making a run for it.”
His head twisted toward me, one corner of his mouth kicking up in a smirk that made my belly flutter like a million hummingbirds had taken flight. Those golden-brown eyes, lined with long, dark lashes, danced with humor in the pale glow of the porch light. “You wouldn’t be too far off the mark, Flower.”
My heart did an Olympic gymnast-style flip at the name he’d christened me with on his very first visit to Redemption. Said in that husky voice of his, I nearly melted into a puddle of goo right then and there.
I twisted to face him full on and sucked in a dramatic gasp. “And risk the wrath of Farah? She’d murder you so dead.”
His smile was still there, but for the first time that night, I noticed just how tired he looked. There were faint purple smudges beneath his eyes. The scruff on his jaw was longer than I’d expected it to be, his hair unrulier.
Don’t get me wrong, he was still hotter than a damn forest fire, but it was evident in the lines on his sexy face that something was weighing on him.
“Hey,” I started, lowering my voice. “You all right?”
He downed more of his drink, bourbon, judging by the smell of it, and used that time to school his features and paste a carefree expression on before responding. “I’m good, Pop.”
With how often Jase had come to town to visit Bennett and his sister, staying at the inn most of those times, I’d gotten to know him well enough to consider us casual friends. More than acquaintances, but not besties by any stretch of the imagination. Still, I cared that something was plaguing him.
“You know, it’s none of my business if you don’t want to talk, and I’m certainly not gonna push, but if you ever need someone to listen, Jase, I’m never more than a phone call away.”
His glass came down on the iron banister with a clank. The intensity in his gaze as he stared down at me—like he was seeing something deep inside me at that very moment, something I didn’t understand— stole my breath and caused my lungs to deflate.
“You’re something else, Poppy. You know that?”
My blush grew so furious I thought I might actually catch fire at any second. “I’m just me,” I said quietly, looking up at him through the fan of my lashes. “Nothing special.”
His voice took on an even huskier timbre as he said, “That’s where you’re wrong, Flower. So very wrong.”
With that, he downed the last of his bourbon, placed the glass on the railing, and shocked the hell out of me by leaning down and placing a kiss on my forehead. “And I’ll keep your offer in mind.” Then he turned and headed back into the house, leaving me reeling.

 

 

Jessica Prince

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Redemption (The Sin Trilogy #6) by Georgia Cates-a review

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REDEMPTION (Sin Series Standalone: Sin Trilogy #6) by Georgia Cates-a review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 18, 2018

A Sin Series Standalone Novel

I was on my way to having everything that I wanted… until I opened that door. That’s when my entire world shattered. In a single second, my happy life was gone.

She broke my heart. There, I admit it. But a Fellowship man doesn’t mourn the loss of a woman. He moves on to the next one. And the next. But what I quickly discover is that it doesn’t matter how many women I’m with. I’ll never find one who can replace Lorna Frazier.

I’ve been an arse, doing everything within my power to hurt her. And I’ve been successful at it. But it doesn’t heal the pain of losing the woman that I love. She is my everything, and I’m nothing without her.

Apart, we’re weak. Together, we’re strong.
Apart, we’re in hell. Together, we’re in heaven.
Apart, we’re broken. Together, we’re whole.

I won’t give up on us.

••••••••••••

REVIEW: REDEMPTION is the sixth instalment in Georgia Cates’ contemporary, adult SIN TRILOGY focusing on the men and women of the Scottish Crime Syndicates The Fellowship, and The Order. This is bar owner and Fellowship member Leith Duncan, and former barmaid Lorna Frazier’s story line. REDEMPTION can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order for backstory and cohesion regarding the Fellowship and the Order, as well as Lorna and Leith’s tempestuous relationship.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Leith and Lorna) REDEMPTION follows the second chance relationship between bar owner and Fellowship member Leith Duncan, and former barmaid Lorna Frazier. Four years earlier Leith and Lorna proclaimed their love for one another but Leith discovered Lorna in a compromising position with Fellowship Leader Sin Breckenridge, a position that destroyed Leith’s heart. Fast forward to present day wherein another member of The Fellowship declares his interest in our story line heroine, an interest that threatens any second chance should Lorna accept the ill-timed proposal. What ensues is the second chance romance between Lorna and Leith, and the potential fall-out as Lorna is targeted by someone from Leith’s past.

The relationship between Lorna and Leith is quick to rebuild. Four years of loving one-another from a distance but four years wherein neither one moved forward until someone else is willing to take a chance on our story line heroine. All untainted women of The Fellowship are considered fair game but Lorna is neither untainted nor willing to move forward without the man who still owns her heart. The $ex scenes are passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

REDEMPTION is a story of family, friendships, betrayal and revenge. The tight-knit Scottish crime families, once at war, now brought together by marriage and alliance, will once again fall victim to death and destruction as one of The Fellowship is targeted in an act of betrayal, jealousy and hate. The premise is engaging; the romance is seductive; the characters are familiar and charismatic- all of the previous story line couples play secondary and supporting roles. My only complaint is the quick rebuilding relationship following a four-year separation-I was hoping for more angst and uncertainty but such is the nature of second chance romance. And of course, book six in a ‘trilogy’ seems rather odd therefore ‘removing’ the word trilogy is definitely an option. The epilogue fast -forwards the series approximately seven years.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
A Necessary Sin
The Next Sin
One Last Sin
Endurance
Unintended
Redemption

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Reviewed by Sandy

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Strong Hold (Redemption #5) by Sarah Castille-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway Tour

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STRONG HOLD (Redemption #5) by Sarah Castille-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

 

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ABOUT HE BOOK: Release Date July 3, 3018

“Shayla?”
For the longest moment Zack’s brain couldn’t process the sight in front of him.
Seven years, ten months and twenty-seven days. That was how long it had been since he’d seen her. That was how long it had been since he’d lived a life without regret.

Fight promoter Zack Grayson is on the prowl for a rising star. As the top recruiter of a prestigious MMA promotion company, he wants to take someone where he will never be able to go again: the top of the professional league. He didn’t expect that someone to be the woman he loved…and left.

Top-ranked MMA amateur fighter Shayla “Shilla the Killa” Tanner built walls around her heart when Zack left her seven years ago–and again when her husband turned violent. Now, seeing Zack is nearly enough to send those walls crumbling. But she can’t risk the exposure of the limelight, and she definitely can’t risk another heartbreak.

As Shayla and Zack grow closer, though, business turns personal. And once their passion unleashes, there’s no going back…

•••••••

REVIEW: STRONG HOLD is the fifth instalment in Sarah Castille’s contemporary, adult REDEMPTION erotic, MMA, romance series focusing on the men and women of the MMA Club Redemption. This is thirty-year old MMA fighter and promoter Zack ‘Slayer’ Grayson, and twenty-five year old, former ballerina turned MMA fighter Shayla Tanner’s story line. STRONG HOLD 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 (Shayla), and third person perspective (Zack) STRONG HOLD follows the second chance romance between MMA fighter and promoter Zack ‘Slayer’ Grayson, and former ballerina turned MMA fighter Shayla Tanner. Zack and Shayla were childhood best friends, and high school sweethearts but on the night Shayla gave Zack her most prized possession, Zack walked away without a second glance. Fast forward to present day, wherein Shayla will come face to face with the man that broke her heart, and destroyed her soul. Enter MMA fighter and promoter Zack ‘Slayer’ Grayson, and the man with whom Shayla was still in love. What ensues is the rekindling romance between Zack and Shayla, as Zack takes control of Shayla’s training, in an effort to get closer to the woman he loves.

Zack had no idea that Shayla Tanner, his Shayla Tanner, was on the amateur circuit of the MMA. Heading into Redemption to recruit possible new talent, Zack will have to face the wrath of the woman from whom he walked away but a woman who has lost and suffered more than Jake could ever have imagined. Shayla struggled in the years following Zack’s ill-timed escape but none more so than into the arms of an abusive man who all but destroyed what was left of our heroine’s life.

The relationship between Zack and Shayla is one of second chances; a rekindling romance between former best friends, and sweethearts but a romance that suffers with too many memories from the past. Zack is determined to prove himself worthy of Shayla’s trust and respect even if it means protecting her from herself. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense but, once again, I take issue with a certain four-letter word that I find unnecessary in a romance story line. Used only once, I felt it was more for shock value than descriptive narration.

Most of the previous story line couples and characters play secondary and supporting roles, some byway of mention or cameo appearance: Blade Saw, Renegade, Rampage, Torment, Homicide Hank, Fuzzy and Doctor Death (all of the nick names must be used in the arena and at the gym), as well as the only other female fighter at Redemption Sandy, and Shayla’s nemesis in the ring Carla Gordon.

STRONG HOLD is a dramatic, intense and captivating story. The premise is energetic and impassioned; the characters are dynamic and vigorous; the romance is provocative and fated. Sarah Castille writes tantalizing romances, strong heroes, and sassy heroines.

Reading Order and previous reviews
Against the Ropes
In Your Corner
Full Contact
Fighting Attraction

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

 

 

A disturbance near the door draws our attention. Zack is here. How irritating. This was supposed to be my night to get drunk and forget he ever walked back into my life. But chances are he’ll never make it to our table. Already, the crowd is three deep around him with no end in sight, and there are fangirls clinging to him like flies.
Zack’s star power keeps him occupied and away from our table for the next hour. He signs napkins, arms, cheeks, and even the curve of one woman’s ass. Before long, he is steered to the wall bearing the Protein Palace logo to pose for pictures with his fans. I don’t want to watch him, but I do. I’ve never loved anyone the way I loved Zack. I opened myself fully to him. I gave him everything, and he filled me so completely, I never wanted more. Every time I see him, the memories come flooding back. Ten years of happiness destroyed by one night of pain.
“He’s been checking you out,” Doctor Death says, a scowl marring the perfection of his handsome face as he stares at Zack, posing with two eager fangirls.
Zack looks devastatingly gorgeous tonight in his tight, black skull-print T-shirt, stretched deliciously over his muscular chest, and a pair of well-worn jeans, snug in all the right places. From the way the fangirls have latched on to his biceps, I’m not the only one to notice.
“I heard a rumor you had a history together,” Doctor Death continues.
“We’re just friends.”
Zack catches me watching him, and in that second when our gazes connect, I remember every reason why I loved him. The way the gold flecks sparkled in his dark eyes when he was happy, the way he watched over me, his easy laughter, the feel of his body against mine, his lips on my lips, his breath on my skin, his hands—God, the things he could do with his hands—the steady beat of his heart as we lay together making dreams for a future we would never have.
After Zack finishes posing for pictures, Fred “Bulldog” Jenner, a heavyweight fighter from a rival gym and one of Sadist’s fiercest competitors, challenges Zack to an arm wrestle. Such is how fighters entertain themselves when they’re training. No fights in case of injury, no excessive drinking because of calories. But when fighters are pumped, as they usually are at this time of day, they need an outlet, and the Protein Palace has a special table set aside for the occasion.
Zack graciously accepts the challenge. Although he and Bulldog are evenly matched in height—two or three inches over six feet—Bulldog is actively training and must outweigh Zack by at least fifty pounds of solid muscle. Still, Zack clearly hasn’t let himself go as many retired fighters do. There isn’t an inch of fat on his toned body. And God, those biceps…
Not wanting to be left out, I join the crowd around their table. Although this is just for fun, there is more at stake than just a friendly arm wrestle. Zack was a big, big name in the sport, and Bulldog is shooting for the pros. A win over Zack sends a message that Bulldog is the man to beat. Out with the old and in with the new.
My heart thuds in my chest when Bulldog clasps Zack’s hand. Although it makes no sense, I want Zack to win. He started from nothing and worked hard to get to where he is, and no one knows that better than I do. Despite what happened between us, I am a secret Slayer fangirl, too.
Biceps flex. Hands grip. A hum of excitement winds its way through the crowd. Bulldog grunts, and his arm shakes. Sweat beads on his forehead. He shifts in his seat, and his chair scrapes over the tile floor. The air thickens with the primal scent of testosterone. I’m surprised I don’t suddenly grow a beard.
Someone turns up the music, and the Black Keys’ “Everlasting Light” plays through the speakers. Zack’s lips turn up at the corners. He lifts his gaze and smiles at me.
Because this was our song. We had both loved this band with its steady beats, old-time sound, and meaningful lyrics. “Everlasting Light” was the song Zack had strummed on his bass while I practiced at the studio late into the night. It was the song he had asked the band to play when he had danced with me at my grad. It was the song he had sung softly to me after we had made love. And I had believed the lyrics as if they were his words. I had believed he wanted to be my sun in the darkness and my everlasting light. They were the last words I had heard him say. They are the last words I want to hear now.
A sigh escapes my lips, and although there is no possible way he could have heard me over the music or the chant of the crowd, his face tightens, and the gold in his eyes fades to black.
Wham. Bulldog’s hand goes down. Sandy lifts Zack’s arm in a victory salute. The crowd cheers, and people surge forward to congratulate the victor.
“Who’s next?” someone shouts.
The crowd hoots and hollers, and names get bandied about. The noise makes my headache worse, and I turn back to the Redemption corner, looking for Doctor Death. Maybe I will take that ride.
A chair scrapes over the floor. And then a table. People shift to the side as if to give way.
My pulse kicks up a notch, and I know, without being able to see through the crowd, that he’s coming for me.

 

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New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author, Sarah Castille, graduated with a B.A Honors degree in History and an LL.B. (law degree) and practiced law on the West Coast for several years before succumbing to the lure of foreign travel. She obtained a Masters Degree in Law from the University of Edinburgh and then practiced at one of the world’s largest law firms in London, England during which time she traveled extensively, wrote moderately, and developed a taste for tea, European footwear and Greek cuisine.

She traded in her life of European glamor for the comforts of the frozen North and the excitement of home renovation, during which time she wrote extensively, never traveled, and developed a taste for beef jerky, Tim Horton’s coffee and Sorels.

After her first book, Legal Heat, won prizes in nine Romance Writers’ Association chapter contests, including the Grand Prize in the Valley of the Sun Hot Prospects Contest, Sarah decided to take a break from high heels and legal practice to write about red-hot alpha males and the women who tame them. Her second book, Against the Ropes, was named as one of Publishers Weekly’s Top Ten Picks for Romance & Erotica for fall 2013, and her third book, Unraveled, hit the New York Times Bestseller’s list. Sarah’s current release, Barely Undercover, was named as the “Must Read Erotic Romance of the Year” in the Sneak Peek Reader’s Choice Awards (2013). She hasn’t dusted off her briefcase yet!

Sarah lives with her husband, munchkins and a family of owls in the shadow of Canada’s Rocky Mountains, where she is currently working on her next novel.

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Fighting Attraction (Redemption #4) by Sarah Castille-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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FIGHTING ATTRACTION (Redemption #4) by Sarah Castille-Review, Excerpt and Giveaway

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FIGHTING ATTRACTION
Redemption #4
by Sarah Castille
Release Date: April 4, 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance, BDSM

Fighting Attraction

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 4, 2017

My sweet, sexy Penny has a dark side. Just like me.
I will have her. And then I will lose her, and suffer a lifetime of regret.

Rampage. Everyone loves him. He is Redemption’s top heavyweight fighter and the biggest gossip in the gym. But he isn’t the teddy bear everyone thinks he is. He’s hiding a dark secret-and he hates himself for it.

Twice a week, Rampage transforms into Master Jack, a notorious Dom only the most hard-core submissives will play with. How can he-a Southern gentleman, bred to respect and protect women-want to dominate them?

But Penny Worthington wants him. Beneath her pearls, kitten heels, and prim British exterior beats a tortured heart…Master Jack is the only one who can set her free.

•••••••••••

REVIEW: FIGHTING ATTRACTION is the fourth instalment in Sarah Castille’s contemporary, adult REDEMPTION erotic, romance series focusing on the men and women of the MMA Club Redemption. This is MMA fighter Jack ‘Rampage’ Caldwell, and PA Penny Worthington’s story line. FIGHTING ATTRACTION can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from previous story line is revealed where necessary.

NOTE: FIGHTING ATTRACTION contains graphic scenes of BDSM focusing on the sadistic and masochistic, and may not be suitable for all readers.

Told from dual first person points of view (Penny and Jack) FIGHTING ATTRACTION focuses on the atypical relationship between MMA fighter Jack ‘Rampage’ Caldwell, and PA Penny Worthington. When the firm for which Penny works serves notice to the local BDSM club to vacate the premises Penny finds herself facing down not only the man who stars in her fantasies, but the man who is able to give Penny so much more. Enter Jack Caldwell, MMA fighter and Club Sin Dom. What ensues is the building love between Penny and Jack, and the couple’s struggle to accept the who and what of their unusual relationship.

Jack is a sadist-a man who likes to inflict pain on others. Penny is a masochist-a woman who needs pain to release the demons buried deep within. Together Jack and Penny are the perfect couple until Jack believes he has gone too far and hurt the woman with whom he has fallen in love.

The relationship between Jack and Penny is based on a mutual need. Jack believes his wants and needs are deviant, and past experiences point to a self-fulfilling prophecy. Penny not only desires the pain but needs the hurt to stop the ongoing darkness that threatens to consume. The $ex scenes are erotic and intense; the BDSM scenes are not for the lighthearted.

All of the previous story line couples play secondary and supporting roles. We are re-introduced to Master Damien Stone, the owner of Club Sin as well as one of Club Sin’s submissives Kitty, and an assortment of MMA fighters and wannabes.

FIGHTING ATTRACTION deviates from Sarah’s usual MMA story line as it focuses on the S&M relationship between Jack and Penny. FIGHTING ATTRACTION reads more like an introductory story line to a new series; perhaps the author has plans for a spin off about the members of Club Sin. All of the MMA fighters are alpha, over protective, and not without some questionable means to protect the people they love. The premise is passionate and entertaining; the characters are colorful, dynamic and broken; the romance is intense and unique. FIGHTING ATTRACTION is an intimate look at two people whose relationship deviates from the norm but a relationship that is perfect for one another.

Reading Order and previous reviews
Against the Ropes
In Your Corner
Full Contact
Fighting Attraction

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Series Spotlight

Redemption 1-4

 

Redemption series books are ON SALE NOW!

AGAINST THE ROPES (Redemption #1)

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IN YOUR CORNER (Redemption #2)

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FULL CONTACT (Redemption #3)

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Excerpt beige

Excerpt intended for mature readers only 18+

 

“You’re so fucking soft,” he breathes. “So sweet.” He presses a kiss to my neck as his hands move over my body. I wrap my arms around his neck, pull him down for more. I want his full weight on top of me. I want to feel crushed, smothered, enveloped in hot, musky male.
Jack groans. His hips press into my stomach, his erection a delicious friction between my thighs. I part my legs wider, grind against him, seeking the delicious sensation of rough denim on my throbbing clit.
“Shh. Slow down. I want to enjoy you.” He trails kisses down my neck, over my throat. Shifting to the side, he cups and squeezes my breasts through my bra, his touch solid and strong. I writhe and wriggle, unable to stay still. He is driving me crazy with his touches, making me so wet it’s all I can do not to rip off his clothes and make him give me what I want.
His eyes darken, and he shoves my shirt up over my head, baring me to his heated gaze. “Ah, Pen.”
My hands find his back and smooth over his muscles, feeling them ripple beneath his shirt as he slides one bra strap over my shoulder. His breathing is heavy, his gaze intense as his head dips down to press a soft kiss to my bare skin.
He slides the other strap off, slowly, gently, carefully unwrapping me as if he is teasing himself. I arch my back, offer my breasts for the pleasure of his mouth. Beyond rational thought, I am lost in sensation, a seething, yearning mass of want.
Jack traces his finger along the edge of my bra, leaving a burning trail across my skin. With painful slowness, he eases the cups down, releasing my breasts from their restraint. I gasp when my burning skin comes into contact with the cool air, and my nipples bead so hard they ache.
I want his mouth on me, his lips, and his heat. But he doesn’t oblige. Instead, he traces a finger around my nipple. Around and around until I tangle my hands in his soft hair and pull him down to my breast. “Please.”
“You’re making it very difficult to go slow.” He feathers hot kisses across the curve of one breast, moving down to draw my left nipple between his teeth. I moan as he licks and sucks, nips and bites, while his other hand squeezes and caresses my right breast. My thighs fall open, inviting, and he lowers his hand to my leg and traces his finger slowly along the sensitive skin of my inner thigh.
I have never known lust like this, want so fierce I burn, need so intense I ache. He is a master of manipulation, a purveyor of pleasure. He knows just where to touch and how hard. He knows how to drive me up and take me down, when I can’t take any more and when it isn’t enough. I try not to think about where he gained all that knowledge, the countless women he’s been with, the things he has done to them in his room at the club. I pretend I am the only one he has caressed into a haze of lust, the only one he wants.
I open my eyes to see him watching me, assessing my reaction to his touch. I feel at once stripped bare and treasured by the intensity of his focus. He moves to my other breast, pulling down my bra cup, teasing and torturing my nipple with his mouth. He trails his fingers up my thigh and then cups the curve of my sex, over my wet knickers. I let out a guttural moan and in seconds he’s on top of me, as if I’ve broken his self-control. He kisses me hard, rough, grinds his hips against me as he presses me into the couch. I reach for him, and he grabs my wrists with one hand and pins them over my head. He pushes my knickers aside and strokes a thick finger along my labia while he sucks and bites my nipple until I am writhing and groaning beneath him.
“Please,” I moan. “Please. Please. Please.”
“Tell me what you want.” He buries his face in my neck, bites down on the sensitive skin at the top of my shoulder.
“Sex. I want to have sex. I want you inside me. Now. Take off my clothes.”
His hand tightens on my wrists so hard it hurts. “I don’t have normal sex,” he growls. “If I take off your clothes, I’m going to hurt you. I need your pain, darlin’. Can you give it to me?”


 

 

About The Author beige

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Sarah CastilleNew York Times and USA Today Bestselling author, Sarah Castille, graduated with a B.A Honors degree in History and an LL.B. (law degree) and practiced law on the West Coast for several years before succumbing to the lure of foreign travel. She obtained a Masters Degree in Law from the University of Edinburgh and then practiced at one of the world’s largest law firms in London, England during which time she traveled extensively, wrote moderately, and developed a taste for tea, European footwear and Greek cuisine.

She traded in her life of European glamor for the comforts of the frozen North and the excitement of home renovation, during which time she wrote extensively, never traveled, and developed a taste for beef jerky, Tim Horton’s coffee and Sorels.

After her first book, Legal Heat, won prizes in nine Romance Writers’ Association chapter contests, including the Grand Prize in the Valley of the Sun Hot Prospects Contest, Sarah decided to take a break from high heels and legal practice to write about red-hot alpha males and the women who tame them. Her second book, Against the Ropes, was named as one of Publishers Weekly’s Top Ten Picks for Romance & Erotica for fall 2013, and her third book, Unraveled, hit the New York Times Bestseller’s list. Sarah’s current release, Barely Undercover, was named as the “Must Read Erotic Romance of the Year” in the Sneak Peek Reader’s Choice Awards (2013). She hasn’t dusted off her briefcase yet!

Sarah lives with her husband, munchkins and a family of owls in the shadow of Canada’s Rocky Mountains, where she is currently working on her next novel.

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Intimate / Redemption (Intimate Relations 1-2) by Kate Douglas-double review

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INTIMATE / REDEMPTION (Intimate Relations 1-2) by Kate Douglas-double review

Intimate

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 1, 2015

HER BEAUTY IS POWERFUL.

They call her Kaz. She’s a gorgeous model with a good head for business—until now, at least. Kaz has just been fired from her latest photo shoot for having the wrong tattoo in the wrong place at the wrong time. But a chance encounter with photographer Jake Lowell could make everything right again . . . if Kaz is willing to accept his proposition. What does she have to lose?

HIS DESIRE IS DANGEROUS.

Jake has been searching for the perfect model to pose for a body-jewelry shoot—one that will leave no room for modesty. Is Kaz, who is nothing if not professional, ready to bare it all for a man she is not sure she can trust? It’s an offer that’s too good to refuse . . . and as Kaz finds herself growing more comfortable with Jake, the attraction between them reaches arousing new heights. But while the artist and his subject learn more about each other in the intimacy of wine country, evil lurks in the shadows—and soon it becomes clear that someone else has designs on them.

••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: INTIMATE is the first full length installment in Kate Douglas’s contemporary, adult INTIMATE RELATIONS erotic romance series. This is photographer Jake Lowell, and model Kaz Kasanov’s story line. There is a prequel novella –TANGLED-found in the HOT ALPHAS anthology (May 2015) but it is not necessary to understand the series.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Kaz and Jake) INTIMATE focuses on the building relationship between Kaz and Jake, and the many attempts against their lives. For his latest assignment with Intimate Winery and Jewelry, Jake needed an edgy model-a woman with tattoos and piercings for a body jewelry photo shoot-and Kaz fit the bill to perfection- but from the moment Jake was introduced to Kaz, someone started sending Jake mysterious texts. Combined with the number of attempts on their lives over the next several days, Jake begins to wonder if the sins from his past have finally caught up.

The attraction between Jake and Kaz is immediate. Their relationship goes from professional to lovers very quickly; and a proclamation of love is not very far off. The $ex scenes are numerous, intimate and seductive.

We are introduced to Kaz’s roommates and best friends, Lola and Mandy Monroe, as well as the reappearance of Nate and Cassie from TANGLED. Nate and Cassie Dunagan are winery owners, and Jake takes advantage of the beautiful location for his Intimate photo shoots. Jake’s best friend and Intimate Jewelry owner Marcus Reed plays a secondary role; and Jake’s long lost brother Ben has finally come home after twenty years overseas.

INTIMATE is a story with a little bit of everything: romance, love, $ex, mystery, suspense and a happily ever after. The premise is intriguing; the characters are colorful and energetic; the romance is a quick build to a promise for the future. Ben and Lola’s story will be told next in REDEMPTION.

Copy supplied by the publisher.

Reviewed by Sandy

_____________________

Redemption

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 29, 2015

SECRETS THREATENING TO CONSUME

Lola Monroe knows that appearances can be deceiving—even in the most beautiful of places and angelic of faces. She’s seen how the ugliest rumors and lies can destroy women’s lives and careers. So when roommate’s brother-in-law shows up at Lola’s doorstep—unannounced, unassuming, and unbelievably gorgeous—she can’t help but wonder if he’s hiding something behind that handsome face, that sly smile, and those tempting lips…

PASSION WORTH FIGHTING FOR

A battle-scarred veteran with devilish looks, Ben Lowell has spent his entire life running from his past, his family—and his deepest, darkest secrets. When he meets Lola, he knows in his heart he can trust her with the truth, even if it means baring his soul and losing her forever. Lola wants to help Ben find redemption by reconciling with his family. But when she discovers more skeletons hiding in his closet—and more dangers waiting in the shadows—the powerful love that binds them together could be the one thing that tears them apart..

•••••••••••

REVIEW: REDEMPTION is the second full length installment in Kate Douglas’s contemporary, adult INTIMATE RELATIONSHIPS romantic, suspense series. This is office manger Lola Monroe, and US army major Ben Lowell’s story line. REDEMPTION can be read as a stand alone but for cohesion and back story I recommend reading the series in order as there is quite a bit of background information revealed in the previous installments. Some of the timeline of REDEMPTION overlaps with the events of INTIMATE. There is also a prequel novella-TANGLED- that can be found in the HOT ALPHAS anthology (May 2015).

Told from dual third person perspectives (Lola and Ben) REDEMPTION focuses on Ben Lowell’s return to civilian life, and the family he left behind twenty years earlier. Ben and his brother RJ aka Jake (INTIMATE #1) haven’t seen one another for close to twenty years and in the ensuing time Ben has lived with so much guilt that it threatens to destroy his life. Ben will discover that everything and everyone he knew has changed, and with it comes the realization that to move forward you have to forget about the past-a past steeped in guilt, heartbreak and the biggest mistake of his life. Enter Lola Monroe-Jake’s fiance’s former roommate- and the woman who would save Ben from himself.

REDEMPTION is a romantic suspense story where Ben’s time in the Middle East follows our hero home to San Francisco and into the lives of the people he loves. The secrets military operations, and possible government involvement find Ben searching for the truth about the attack in Afghanistan that left him for dead, and the continuing attacks at home on US soil. Saying that, there is plenty of background information and history about the time Ben spent in the Middle East, and the possible connections to US Senator back home.

The relationship between Ben and Lola is quick to develop: there is an immediate and visceral attraction between our leading characters one that is sated within hours of introduction. The quick friends to lovers scenario finds Ben and Lola proclaiming their love for one another within a matter of days. The $ex scenes are seductive and intense.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Ben’s brother Jake and his fiancé Kaz (INTIMATE #1); Nate and Cassie Dunagan (TANGLED .5); Lola’s roommate/half-sister Mandy Monroe, who may or may not have a thing for Jake’s best friend and IT specialist Marcus Reed. We are also introduced to several law enforcement officers, agents from the FBI, and the requisite evil that comes with many faces-some familiar and some not. There is plenty of action, mystery, and suspense.

REDEMPTION is an entertaining story line where the intrigue builds throughout the story. There are twists and turns, betrayal and revenge, family and friendship, forgiveness and looking forward towards a happily ever after. The premise is infinitely detailed; the main characters are flirty, friendly and intense; the romance is a quick build to a promise for the future. REDEMPTION is a great read for fans of romantic suspense and family love.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Redemption (Nashville Nights 3) by Robin Covington-Review and Book Tour

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Redemption (Nashville Nights 3) by Robin Covington-Review and Book Tour

Redemption Banner

Redemption
Robin Covington
Nashville Nights #3
Genre: New Adult Romance
Release Date: June 15, 2015
Publisher: Burning Up the Sheets, LLC

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Redemption

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Emory Cabell is leaving the lies behind her.

Finding out that huge chunk of your life has been a lie and that you’re the half-sister to America’s country music queen is game changer. Determined to meet the sibling she never knew and compelled to pursue the music career she’s always wanted, Emory leaves her small town and heads to Nashville. Thrown by the bustle of Music City and the cutthroat dealing of the business, she finds unexpected shelter in a musical partnership with country music’s baddest bad boy.

Zane has his eyes set on the prize.

Known as a man who never stays the night, Zane is reliable only when it comes to his music. Years of paying his dues has gained him the coveted lead guitarist spot on the “must see” music tour of the year. Hoping this gig will lead to his own single recording contract, he agrees to write a few songs with Emory but he’s blown away by the sexual chemistry sizzling between them and leveled by his feelings for this quiet woman with the beautiful soul.

Can love be more than just a line in a song?

Darkness and light…they should not work. But one night in her bed proves they’re hotter than the number one single they wrote together. When the spotlight sheds light on all of Zane’s past sins, Emory struggles with trusting him with her heart. When a duo-only recording contract threatens everything Zane has worked towards and challenges everything he thought he knew about himself, he recklessly betrays her trust. With his life at a crossroads, will he choose the music or the future with a woman whose love might just be his redemption?

••••••••••••••

REVIEW:  REDEMPTION is the third installment in Robin Covington’s new adult, contemporary Nashville Nights romance series. This is singer/song writer Zane Wyatt, and Emory Cabell’s storyline. Emory is Kit Landry’s (Temptation Book 1) nineteen year old half sister, and Zane is Kit’s lead guitarist and opening act on her sold-out summer tour. REDEMPTION can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from previous storylines is revealed where necessary.

Told from alternating first person points of view (Zane and Emory) REDEMPTION follows the quick building relationship of insta-lust between our leading couple. Emory and Zane click; their attraction to one another is palpable, and does not go unnoticed by fans or the members of the band, and as such Emory’s sister Kit let’s our couple know where she stands if Zane destroys Emory’s heart.

Zane is a bad boy; a man-whore who he likes both men and women, and has no problem expressing his sexual desires, wants and needs. But something about Emory pulls at Zane’s heart, and their connection and sexual energy is perfect; their ability to write songs together is nothing short of gold-record status. Emory is the virginal, girl next door whose own music star is about to rise.

REDEMPTION has an ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Emory’s sister Kit Landry. We are also introduced to several members of the band-bassist Aaron Rice, and keyboardist Mike Leonard, as well as drummer Mac Giles. Zane’s extended family whom he hasn’t seen in a number of years shows a different side to Zane’s rock and roll lifestyle.; and someone from Zane’s past will set into motion heartbreak and betrayal. Emory’s world will come crashing down when Zane is offered the chance to star on his own.

REDEMPTION is a quick read; a fast paced story of romance and love; heartbreak and betrayal; music and the bright lights of fame. The premise is lighthearted and engaging; the characters are animated, colorful, and passionate; the happily ever after is emotional and heartfelt. The world building refocuses on the music and the musicians-the series took a bit of a detour in book two.

Copy supplied by the tour operator.

Reviewed by Sandy

excerpt

 

I feel a tug on my fingers and I shuffle to cover the two steps between me and Zane. He gazes down at me, his smirk less playful and more intense. Just that one look and my skin flashes hot all over. The sounds around us fade into the background. We might as well be alone here in this parking lot.
He’s right. It isn’t just the music.
He stares at me for a few seconds longer, his expression shielding whatever decision tree he’s scaling in his mind. But I don’t need him to make this decision for me. I know what I want to do.
Look. Leap. Live.
“Come with me.” I tug on his hand and weave my way through the crowd, making a beeline for what I hope is my empty tour bus. Kit is occupied with her makeup and I hope Sandra is busy doing something else for a while.
Zane follows behind me, his hand still clinging to mine and his smartass mouth unusually silent. We cross the lot and reach the bus without any interruption. I open the door and step inside, dragging him behind me. The interior is cool and darker with the window shades pulled shut against the harsh summer sun. I don’t hear anyone else here but I need to make sure.
“Sandra?” When no one responds I turn to brush past Zane and lock the door.
I don’t even get to turn around before he’s pressed along my back, his hands reaching around to slip my guitar over my head. His warmth is gone for the briefest second and I spin around and catch him placing my instrument on the table alongside his own. Zane turns back to around, walks slowly towards me and stops far enough away for me to wish he was closer and near enough that I can feel the heat of afternoon pouring his skin.
“I want to put my hands all over you,” he says and my mouth goes dry. He takes my silence as permission to close the distance between us and do exactly what he said. A whisper of a calloused finger over my collarbone and then the same shiver-inducing touch travels up my neck until his large hands are cradling my face.”Em, you say the word and I’ll let you go and walk out the door. We can just make great music together and that will be it. Otherwise, I’m not going to stop until I make you come.”
I tense the tiniest bit at his words and I try to hide it but he senses it and smiles.
“I won’t fuck you here. You deserve better for your first time than the couch in a tour bus. And just because we have some fun today doesn’t mean that it ever has to lead to anything else, anything more. You’re always in control of this ride, Little Bird.”
His words soothe my only worry and I take my immediate future in my hands and close the distance between our mouths.
I gasp at the first touch. He’s surprisingly gentle this time, completely different from the kiss in the club. Zane’s tongue pushes past my lips and teases me, entices me to take what I want. So I do.
I grab his shirt and drag him closer, pressing our mouths together in a clash of teeth and tongues and hot, wet possession. He groans, his fingers twisting in my hair and setting off sparks of almost-pain behind my eyelids. I dig my nails into the hard muscle of his shoulders, hungry to have him all over me as soon as possible.
Zane maneuvers us around until the edge of the couch hits the back of my knees. He breaks off the kiss at the resistance and lowers me to the cushioned seat. He remains standing, looking down at me with eyes dark and hot, his lips swollen from our kiss. Our breathing is harsh and heavy in the silence broken only by his voice, tinged dark with need.
“I’ve been hard since we sang that song.” He rubs a hand over the bulge of his cock behind his jeans and my eyes are drawn to that spot and I can’t look away. “You keep me hard all the time Emory. I want you so fucking much.”
I look up at the edge of pain in his voice. I know it’s the good kind of agony, the kind that has kept me up late in my bunk, my own hands touching me while I pretend it is him. But I don’t have to pretend anymore. All I have to do is be bold. He’s in front of me and he’s mine for the taking.


 

 

Series Spotlight Black and Gold

TemptationTemptation
by Robin Covington
Genre: adult, contemporary, musician, romance
Release Day: August 5, 2014

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Add TEMPTATION to your GOODREADS shelf.

About the book: Release Date August 5, 2014

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of TEMPTATION

She needs to be good.

Five years ago, Kit Landry was homeless and alone at sixteen. Determined to ditch her crappy life, she moved to Nashville with only $200, her guitar, and a notebook full of songs. She hit it big as America’s country sweetheart, but a year of living like a rock star plus a stint in rehab has killed any good will she had with her label. The suits have ordered Kit to shape up or ship out of the limelight. The last thing she needs is a hot, sexy distraction with a sinful smile.

He doesn’t know the meaning of the word.

Max Butler is as far from a celebrity as you can get and he likes it that way. A Nashville firefighter, he’s living the single life with a revolving door of parties, friends, and a different woman in his bed every night. When his normal life suddenly collides with the girl on his favorite Rolling Stone cover, he sees the perfect chance to fulfill his ultimate fantasy and see just how bad Kit can be.

Sometimes bad is so very good.

With three weeks until Kit leaves for her big tour, Max promises to give her a break from being the good girl–no strings attached. But when hot days lead to sultry nights, the lines get blurred and suddenly three weeks of bad might not be good enough.

__________

SalvationSALVATION
Nashville Nights 2
by Robin Covington
Release Date: May 11, 2015
Genre: new adult, contemporary, romance

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of SALVATION

99¢ ebook deal: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 11, 2015

Letting go never felt so good.

Carlisle Queen is dying and no one knows it.

Burying the pain of losing her friends and her professional swimming career in a terrorist attack, America’s former sweetheart dulls her pain with drugs, pills and parties. The bomb left her with more than nightmares; shrapnel is lodged in her back and inching closer to her spinal cord. When the doctors tell her paralysis is inevitable, she decides to take her own life rather than face a lifetime in a wheelchair.

Mateo Butler isn’t anyone’s hero.

Reeling from the death of his little sister and his own cowardice, he spends his nights partying and his days ignoring the medical school acceptance letters and his parents’ concerned phone calls. Just a couple of months from graduation, he’s facing a future filled with shame and regret. The last thing he needs is to meet the woman who compels him to be a better man.

Can they save each other?

When Carlisle and Mateo meet, the chemistry between them is combustible. They play, party and hide their true selves until one night turns their lust into something more…something real. As secrets are revealed and walls collapse, what they were and what they might become doesn’t matter as much as who they are together. When the choice comes down to life or death, can love be their salvation?

About The Author

Robin CovingtonRobin Covington loves to explore the theme of fooling around and falling in love in her bestselling books. A Night of Southern Comfort, her debut novel was nominated for the RT Book Reviewers Choice Awards for Small Press and was touted by RT Book Reviews as bringing a “fresh, modern feel to the genre while still sticking to the things that get our adrenaline pumping — sex and danger”. Her books were also nominated for the Bookseller’s Best Award and the National Reader’s Choice Awards.
When she’s not writing sexy, sizzling romance she’s collecting tasty man candy, indulging in a little comic book geek love, and stalking Joe Manganiello. You can find Robin at her website (robincovingtonromance.com), Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.
Don’t send chocolate . . . send eye candy!
Robin lives in Maryland with her hilarious husband, brilliant children (they get it from her, of course!) and her beloved furbabies.

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Full Contact (Redemption #3) by Sarah Castille-Review and Book Tour

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FULL CONTACT (Redemption #3) by Sarah Castille-Review and Book Tour

Full Contact

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 7, 2015

When you can’t resist the one person who could destroy you…

Sia O’Donnell can’t help but push the limits. She secretly attends every underground MMA fight featuring The Predator, the undisputed champion. When he stalks his prey in the ring, Sia is mesmerized. He is dominant and dangerous and every instinct tells her to run.

Every beautiful thing Ray “The Predator” touches he knows he’ll eventually destroy. Soft, sweet and innocent, Sia is the light to Ray’s darkness-and completely irresistible. From the moment he lays eyes on her, he knows he’s going to have to put his dark past behind him to win her body and soul.

••••••••••••

REVIEW: FULL CONTACT is the third installment in Sarah Castille’s adult, contemporary Redemption MMA romance storyline focusing on the MMA fighters at the Redemption Gym and Training Center. This is tattoo artist (and Fuzz’s sister) Sia O’Donnell, and underground MMA fighter and private investigator Ray ‘The Predator’ Black’s storyline. Full Contact can be read as a standalone, much easier than book 2 -In Your Corner- but I recommend reading the series in order for background, history, character and series development.

Ray ‘The Predator’ is a private investigator and former soldier whom we met in book two when he came to work for lawyer Amanda Westwood (In Your Corner). We knew very little about the quiet and seemingly shy man, but his character shines through as he builds a presence on the MMA fight scene. Ray’s backstory finds our hero with a heartbreaking past that sets the tone for the current direction of his life. His attraction to Sia O’Donnell comes at a time when neither one is looking for a permanent relationship-at least that is what Sia claims in the beginning.

Sia is an artist, who because of a horrific and dark incident years before, has given up the paints and brushes, for ink and a tattoo machine. As Tag’s (aka Fuzzy) younger sister, Sia finds herself surrounded by the over protective MMA fighters; she is also their tattoo artist when ink needs to be done. An opportunity will present itself when Redemption offers Sia a tattoo shop of her own but Ray makes the mistake of looking into Sia’s past and taking matters into his own hands.

The relationship between Sia and Ray builds throughout the storyline but our couple must contend with Sia’s alpha and overprotective brother who blames himself for the incident years before. As with all of the MMA fighters who have found the woman he loves, Ray begins to mark his territory ensuring everyone knows that Sia is taken much to the anger and disappointment of Sia’s brother. Ray is a dominant, alpha male who at times falls into ‘Tarzan mode’ through speech and actions. The $ex scenes are seductive and provocative, and like the previous storylines, there are some mild bondage and discipline scenes. The push and pull of the attraction, want and need is continuous throughout the entire story-Ray has a difficult time with commitment or letting go.

The ensemble cast of colorful and engaging characters continues to drive a good portion of the storyline including the MMA fighters- Shayla aka Shilla the Killa, Blade Saw, Renegade, Rampage, Torment, Homicide Hank, Fuzzy and Doctor Death (all of the nick names must be used in the arena and at the gym). Some of the names border closely on a best selling vampire series. Drake aka Dr. Death remains stoic in his attempts to convince the heroines that their men are not worthy of their love and affection much to the consternation of the other fighters. We are introduced to Sia’s coworkers at Rabid Ink-Slim, Rose, Christos, and Duncan as well as Sia’s best friend Jess whose heart beats for the attention of Tag O’Donnell. . Once again, plenty of drama and angst as it pertains to Sia and Ray’s backstories.

FULL CONTACT is an energetic, impassioned and intense storyline. Ray is a man who buries his heartbreak with pain; and Sia is the heroine who intensifies Ray’s need, at every opportunity. Sarah Castille has brought together a family of fighter’s, who at the end of the day, support and nurture one another-sometimes family is not the blood in your veins, but the people who pull you back up every time you fall down.

Copy supplied by Sourcebooks through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

_____________

In Your Corner
Redemption #2
by Sarah Castille
Genre: adult, contemporary, MMA, romance

In Your cornerABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 1, 2014

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository

He rules in the ring

Two years ago, Jake and Amanda were going hot and heavy. But when Jake wanted more, Amanda walked away. Jake immersed himself in mixed martial arts, living life on the edge. But that didn’t dull the pain of Amanda’s rejection-until a chance encounter throws them together.

A high-powered lawyer, Amanda was a no-strings-attached kind of girl. But two years after her breakup with Jake, she still hasn’t found anyone who gets her heart pumping the way he did. And then he shows up in her boardroom, hot as sin and needing help…

But can he rule her heart?

Jake is darker, sexier, and impossible to resist. As their chemistry builds, Amanda’s not sure if she can stay in control, or if she’s finally willing to let him claim her body and soul.

••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: IN YOUR CORNER is the second installment in Sarah Castille’s adult, contemporary Redemption erotic romance series focusing on the MMA fighters at Redemption gym and training center. This is MMA fighter Jake aka Renegade Donovan, and lawyer Amanda Westwood’s storyline. Jake and Amanda’s backstory began two years earlier- in book one AGAINST THE ROPES.

Told from first person point of view (Amanda) the second chance storyline focuses on Amanda’s downward spiral. Working for the high-powered law firm of Farnsworth and Tillman, Amanda finds herself the victim of sexual harassment, blackmail, betrayal, invasion of privacy and loss of competency. When our heroine quits her job, she begins another descent into hell carrying on with her previous promiscuous ways only to hit rock bottom and find herself being rescued by the fighters from Redemption Gym. Jake knows that Amanda is the love of his life, but he is unable to give Amanda everything she needs and wants. Not ready to settle down, Amanda walked away two years earlier, breaking Jake’s heart in the process.

Amanda likes sex and in this, her prior and continuous sexual exploits are a major point of contention throughout the story. She is a woman who will not apologize for her past but she has been pushed into a corner where she needs to come out fighting for her life as well as both her personal and professional reputation. An offer to open her own law practice finds Amanda the new legal face of Redemption, and the current representative for several law suits both for and against the fighters, and one very personal suit against the law firm of Farnsworth and Tillman.

The relationship between Jake and Amanda is a roller coaster ride of emotions, needs and disappointments. Amanda’s sexual history keeps her fidelity in question; and Jake’s need to protect Amanda comes at a cost of pushing Amanda away. Jake has a difficult time letting go of the past, and in this, he is continually on the look out for more heartbreak and betrayal. The $ex scenes are aggressive, intense and sometimes a little kinky. Jake likes to spank Amanda when she doesn’t obey his rules.

IN YOUR CORNER is an ensemble storyline. The very colorful and engaging secondary, and supporting characters include all of Redemption’s MMA fighters-Alpha males at heart- as well as the requisite evil in the form of the legal team at F&T, a couple of burly bar fighters, and Amanda’s father whose dislike of his only child comes with heartbreak and resolution. Several of Farnsworth and Tillman’s employees follow Amanda to her new office including the very British PA Penny and security/private investigator Ray (whose story will be told in book 3 Full Contact).

I did not have the opportunity to read book one AGAINST THE ROPES and I wish I had before starting IN YOUR CORNER. There is so much backstory, and history between the characters that I felt a little lost and out of the loop when the fighters talked about the past and events leading to the current time line. I am always recommending to-read a series in order and in this, I did not follow my own advice. Saying that, it did not affect my enjoyment of the story.

IN YOUR CORNER is an intense and dramatic storyline; a sensual and passionate look the personal and professional lives of Redemption’s fighters of the MMA. There is plenty of melodrama and tension as it pertained to Amanda’s family history. My only complaint is the lack of ‘information’ about Jake’s personal history and the take over of his father’s company. In this, the storyline focused more on Amanda’s struggles than Jake’s.

Sarah Castille will captivate your imagination with Amanda’s storyline as she looks for love in all the wrong places only to find herself in the arms of the man from whom she walked away

Reviewed by Sandy

•••••••••••••

Today we are pleased to sit down with Ray “The Predator” Black and Sia O’Donnell, the protagonists from Sarah Castille’s Full Contact (April 2015). From March 30th through April 20th the couple will be on tour answering questions about their relationship.

Who takes the longest to get ready in morning?

Ray: Sia. I get up, work out, go for a run, shower, dress and eat breakfast before she’s even out of bed.

Sia: Me. I am so not a morning girl.

Excerpt

 

 

Ray grabs my wrists and pins them to the mat over my head, his body angled over me. My breath catches in my throat, and I steel myself for the memories, the black rush, the heart-pounding fear, but it doesn’t come. Instead, a red haze settles over my vision, and I press my lips together and buck my hips, throwing him slightly forward.
Bad plan. Now his groin is only inches away from my face. He’s still wearing his jeans, which means that bulge isn’t a cup.
“Ray…”
His face softens. “I hurt you.”
“Yes, you hurt me. Keeping secrets hurts me. It makes me feel like you don’t respect me. And it makes me feel like I can’t trust you. So maybe you could return to your proper seat now. Tray table up.”
He shifts down, settling his weight over my hips, but he doesn’t release my hands. “I hurt you. Means you care.”
I swallow hard and meet his gaze. “You hurting me means I was being stupid. Things were going where I didn’t want them to go. Now I’ve had a wake-up call. You have secrets you can’t share. You need to protect your secrets. I need to be with someone I can trust, and I need to stand on my own two feet. It’s just not going to work between us.”
His gaze darkens, searing me to the core. “You want to be done? Or are you scared and trying to push me away?”
The air shifts between us, electrifying, tightening my nipples and heating my blood. I am hyperaware of his thighs tucked against my hips, carrying most of his weight as he sits astride me in a dominant MMA position. My wrists, hot under his palms, press against the cool mat, restrained in a way I could never have imagined allowing them to be restrained. My chest rises and falls twice for every one of Ray’s breaths, and my core tightens. The innuendo isn’t lost on me. God, yes. I want to be done in the carnal sense of the word. But only by Ray. And I don’t really want to let him go.
“I don’t want to lose you.”
Ray’s hands tighten on my wrists, and he leans down and brushes a kiss over my lips. “I don’t want to lose you either, but I live in a dangerous world. I’ve got stuff in my life that would make your head spin. I need to protect you from that, and I’ll do what it takes to keep you safe, even if it means you hate me for it, because for the first time in my life, I want something more than doing my duty. I want a life and I want you in it. I’ve got one bad guy to catch and then I’m free. And after I’m done and after what went down this evening, you’ll never have to worry about being safe again.”
Finally, he releases my hands but I don’t move. Heat sweeps through my belly. I feel both vulnerable and curiously safe lying beneath him. My gaze shifts from his intense gaze to his sensual lips, and my breasts swell, remembering the touch of his hands, the gentle press of his lips. He wants me. Not just today, but tomorrow and the tomorrow after that.
“You make it sound like I don’t have a choice about being with you.”
“You don’t.” He leans down and kisses me with a savage fierceness that takes my breath away.

 

About the author

Follow: Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads

Sarah CastilleNew York Times and USA Today Bestselling author, Sarah Castille, graduated with a B.A Honors degree in History and an LL.B. (law degree) and practiced law on the West Coast for several years before succumbing to the lure of foreign travel. She obtained a Masters Degree in Law from the University of Edinburgh and then practiced at one of the world’s largest law firms in London, England during which time she traveled extensively, wrote moderately, and developed a taste for tea, European footwear and Greek cuisine.

She traded in her life of European glamor for the comforts of the frozen North and the excitement of home renovation, during which time she wrote extensively, never traveled, and developed a taste for beef jerky, Tim Horton’s coffee and Sorels.

After her first book, Legal Heat, won prizes in nine Romance Writers’ Association chapter contests, including the Grand Prize in the Valley of the Sun Hot Prospects Contest, Sarah decided to take a break from high heels and legal practice to write about red-hot alpha males and the women who tame them. Her second book, Against the Ropes, was named as one of Publishers Weekly’s Top Ten Picks for Romance & Erotica for fall 2013, and her third book, Unraveled, hit the New York Times Bestseller’s list. Sarah’s current release, Barely Undercover, was named as the “Must Read Erotic Romance of the Year” in the Sneak Peek Reader’s Choice Awards (2013). She hasn’t dusted off her briefcase yet!

Sarah lives with her husband, munchkins and a family of owls in the shadow of Canada’s Rocky Mountains, where she is currently working on her next novel.

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Lie To Me by Chloe Cox-Review, Blog Tour and Giveaway

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Lie to Me by Chloe Cox-Review, Blog Tour and Giveaway

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Lie To Me
Redemption #1
by Chloe Cox
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Release Date: November 2013

Lie to Me

  Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble /

LIE TO ME (Redemption #1) by Chloe Cox

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 2013

The man who saved her is also the man who destroyed her… or is he?

Seven years ago, I decided I wanted to be a fighter. Marcus Roma showed me how.

Six years ago, my parents died in a car accident. Marcus Roma picked me up off the ground and held me until I could stand on my own two feet.

Five years ago, I fell in love with him.

And then Marcus Roma disappeared. No warning. No explanation. Just gone.

Yesterday, he came back.

And now I have to decide who’s telling the truth, and who’s lying. Who wants something from me, and who wants…

Me.

If I guess wrong, I could lose everything. I need to think clearly. But Marcus makes that impossible. Marcus makes me weak. Marcus makes me want, in a way I’ve never felt before.

Marcus Roma will make me fall. The only question is—will he be there to catch me this time?

LIE TO ME is a new adult / adult contemporary romance novel about truth, lies, and redemption. It is not intended for readers under the age of 18.

•••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: LIE TO ME is the first instalment in Chloe Cox’s contemporary, new adult Redemption series. The premise follows our couple Marcus and Hollow as Marcus attempts to re-connect with the woman from whom he walked away-five years earlier.

Lie to Me is a written narrative with much of the storyline focusing on the back history and events leading to the present day. The reader learns how and why Marcus and Hollow met; their family histories and exactly where and when everything changed. But I will add, that the elephant in the room-why Marcus left-is not revealed until the final pages of the book. Because of the style of story telling-there is limited one on one time and conversation, until the story focuses on the present day situation.

Chloe Cox builds a storyline using memories, flashbacks and personal musings as alternating chapters are told from first person POV between Hollow and Marcus. There is definitely a history between our leading couple and one that faced many obstacles including the death of Hollow’s parents and Marcus’s father. But we will learn that not everyone and everything is as they seem, especially when Marcus returns following a five year absence-and the why will follow two paths both leading back to Hollow and her younger brother Dill.

Lie to Me is a story about heartbreak and betrayal; lies and telling the truth; family and friends; forgiveness and love. But it is also a story about one man’s desire to protect the woman that he loves and in doing so discovers that he has caused more pain and heartbreak than he could have possibly imagined.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

____________________________

excerpt

LIE TO ME excerpt  CH 13

“That doesn’t work, Marcus. You can’t have it both ways. You can’t work for the man who’s trying to destroy my home and be my…what? What do you even think you are?”

Marcus puts those big hands on either side of me on the kitchen counter, penning me in, and leans in until his mouth is only inches from mine.

“I’m the guy who’s going to keep you safe,” he says.

I shiver as I feel his breath on my neck, and my heart breaks as he says those words. “Oh. Is that all?” I ask.

His lips graze my ear, my cheek. He rubs his face against my neck, and then licks it, ever so lightly.

“No,” he says in my ear. “That’s not all.”

Oh God. Oh God, oh God, oh God. The physicality of this man, and my attraction to him, removes all sense from my brain. I feel like a zombie, or like I’m hypnotized, like he could tell me to strip and my clothes would be half off before I even knew what was happening. Like I’m drunk on him, drunk and deranged and prone to making bad decisions. This should be illegal. You should not be allowed to drive a human body while under this kind of influence.

“Marcus, I can’t do a repeat of this,” I say, and my breath is already ragged. “Please.”

And I push against his chest, gently.

I can’t look at him when he steps back because I know I’ll be right back there, unable to think clearly through my desire for him. Not just for him, but for everything to be right between us. That was the worst part about sleeping with him again—seeing a glimpse of how it could be. Knowing I love him now more than I ever did, knowing that learning more about the world in the last five years has made me realize just how lucky I was to have him in my life at all. And then the hangover: remembering that it’s not all right. That he still hasn’t explained why he left, that he might do it again at any moment. Remembering what happened to me after he left the first time.

How could I bring him back into my life under those circumstances? How could I ever bring him into Dill’s life under those circumstances?

That’s why I kicked him out. Didn’t seem to do any good, though. He’s still in my life. Even if he weren’t standing in my kitchen, looking down at me with such tender concern that it makes me weak, he’d still be in my life. Because I don’t think he’ll ever be out of my thoughts.

about the author

I love to tell stories. I especially love romance, only with all the good and sexy parts left in, and sometimes with a little kink, too. I cry at the dumbest commercials, I hide behind the nearest person during scary movies (and then make them tell me what’s going on), and I spend way too much money sending my friends gag gifts. (Amazon Prime free shipping is a dangerous, dangerous thing.)

So aside from feeling compelled to sit at my computer and make stuff up all day, I’m an otherwise normal gal navigating life, family, love and the rest. I am also a voracious, omnivorous reader, a disastrous cook (recipes are at best just suggestions), and the human who belongs to two bat%$&! insane cats.

FIVE FUN FACTS

– Number of jars of peanut butter and peanut butter-chocolate consumed while writing (oh god why did I figure this out): 5 and 4, respectively. I started out with just the plain peanut butter, but at some point in the writing process peanut butter just wasn’t cutting it for me anymore. I had developed a peanut butter tolerance. I needed something stronger. And thus I leveled up to this peanut butter chocolate devil mix. It was like a swirl thing? Whole Foods does it. You can get the peanut butter and chocolate mixed together, and it is the laziest snack ever, and it is wonderful. With a spoon, people. I ate it with a spoon.

– Marcus, like one of my previous heroes (what up, Chance fans!), is loosely based on someone I know. Fighter’s hands really are very heavy.

– Actually, I’m just going to throw this out there: boxing is an amazing workout, and the scenery ain’t half bad. You know, if you need to work off 9-10 jars of peanut butter related condiments for some reason.

– Harlow’s never had the time to pursue her own dreams, but she’s actually a very talented self-taught musical composer. Marcus might have plans for her, there…

– I cried like a baby writing the ending.

AUTHOR CONTACT LINKS:

Website – http://chloecoxbooks.com/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Chloe-Cox/403551756383377
Goodreads –  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5392708.Chloe_Cox

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Chloe is offering the following prizes on her LIE TO ME Blog Tour:

Kindle Fire HDX 7” Tablet (link to tablet specifications http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DOPNO4M/ref=fs_j)

$100 Amazon or B&N Gift Card
5 Ebook Copies
3 Signed Paperbacks

Terms & Conditions

The Kindle Fire HDX giveaway is international unless excluded. If your country is not on the list that Amazon delivers to, you will not be eligible win this prize.

The signed paperbacks are international.

The Reading Cafe  is not responsible for damage to the Kindle in transit. All issues regarding this must be addressed to Amazon.

All accessories for the Kindle Fire HDX must be purchased by the winner – the prize is the Kindle Fire HDX only and does not include the power adaptor.

Entrants must be 18 or over.

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