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Temptation by Robin Covington-Review and Release Day Blitz

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Temptation by Robin Covington-Review and Release Day Blitz

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

Temptation

Amazon.com / Barnes and Noble / KOBO / iTunes

Add TEMPTATION to your GOODREADS shelf.

About the book: Release Date August 5, 2014

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.

••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: TEMPTATION is the latest adult, contemporary release from author Robin Covington. The storyline focuses on Nashville firefighter Max Butler and twenty one year old country music star Kit Landry. Told from alternating first person POV (Kit and Max) the storyline follows their building relationship after Max rescues Kit from a burning studio. Kit has been placed on notice by her recording company following a stint in rehab and Max is a distraction she doesn’t need.

Max and Kit’s relationship is in constant turmoil-from nosey paparazzi to the sell out of a friendship and more, our couple find themselves in the spotlight for everything that could wrong. When provocative images of the couple are brought to the attention of Kit’s producers, it doesn’t take a genius to know that someone close has targeted Kit for another fall.

The secondary characters included Max’s family, friend and fellow firefighters who give Max a little bit of trouble when his love life begins to spiral out of control. Kit’s entourage and management team tend to make her life a little more complicated and in the end she must open her eyes to the possibility that she has been betrayed by the very people who have promised to be there if she falls.

TEMPTATION pulls the reader onto the stage and back rooms as a one time star must prove to the fans and herself that she is ready for everything that life and money have to offer. Robin Covington writes a story that is seductive and realistic with its’ gritty, no nonsense look at the price of fame on friendship, family and love.

Copy supplied by author.

Reviewed by Sandy

excerpt

 

 

I couldn’t stop thinking about that kiss. How she’d tasted, how she’d felt in my arms. Despite the difference in our size, Kit fit perfectly against me—like she was made to be there. We had chemistry, alright. But that was all it was or would ever be.
“Excuse me, can you tell me where I can find Shannon Jones?”
The voice came out of nowhere and I lurched up, banging the top of my head on the edge of the fire truck door. Biting back the “fuck me” that could get me written up, I straightened, turned, and found myself looking right into the eyes of the woman I’d just been obsessing over.
Kit was standing there in my station, an expression of surprise and then concern on her face as she glanced to where I’d clonked the living shit out of myself just seconds before. She was wearing a low-cut, little blue sundress and cowboy boots and everything else was miles of bare skin and dark curls. My brain went mushy. Maybe I’d hit my head harder than I’d thought.
Her voice was full of concern as she moved closer. “Max, are you okay? I didn’t mean to sneak up behind you.”
I stared at her like an idiot. In person, I was reminded again of just how gorgeous she was. She walked towards me and I couldn’t move, couldn’t take my eyes off of her. If you looked up “dumbstruck” in the dictionary, you’d see my goofy-ass face pasted right next to it.
I still hadn’t answered when she stopped in front of me. Standing on tiptoe she touched my recent injury. “Are you sure you’re okay?”
Her voice was feminine, with a whiskey-edge that tied my gut up in knots. Her hand was cool on my over-heated skin and, as she moved closer, I could smell her sweet, summery, honeysuckle scent. All I wanted to do was pull her lush curves against my body, take her mouth, and find out exactly where this crazy chemistry would take us.
I definitely had a head injury because suddenly I realized that I had her close enough to do all those things and I wasn’t doing anything about it.

Get your shit together, Butler. Carpe the fucking diem.
I grabbed her by the waist and pulled her towards me, turning us so she was backed up against the door of the fire truck. She still held her packages in her hands and I missed the feel of her touch on my body, but I could work with what I had.
She stared up at me, her big, blue eyes wide with shock but mostly what I saw there was curiosity. She licked her lips and that was all the invitation I needed. I leaned into her, bypassing the prize of her mouth to press a kiss to her throat, just above the place where her pulse pounded against her skin. She was delicious all over, sweet and warm, and I wanted to drag her down to the floor and bury my cock inside her body for hours.
I looked down and realized that my hands were shaking, my breath as quick as hers—and I hadn’t even kissed her yet.
“When we fuck, it’s probably going to kill me.” It came out as a growl, as I tipped her face up to mine and wasted no more time in taking what I wanted.
Kit didn’t play games, no pretending that she didn’t want this, too. She opened to me, meeting my tongue more than halfway when I dove inside. She was as hungry as I was and the kiss was anything but the usual finesse I used on women. There was no slow seduction here. It wasn’t in my power to play games. I was at the mercy of whatever she would give me.
I slanted my mouth over hers, barely giving her a chance to take a breath before I went at her again like I was starving.
And I was famished. For her. It was the craziest thing I’d ever experienced, but I wasn’t going to let a little insanity stop me. It never had before.
I wrapped my arms around her waist, inserting my body in between her legs. The skirt of her dress rode up high on her thighs as I pressed my hard-on against the hot cleft of her pussy. I rolled my hips against her and she dropped the bags in her hands with a thud against the concrete, weaving her fingers into my hair with a pressure that brought a little pain with the pleasure.
I didn’t care. She could do whatever she wanted to my body as long as I got to do exactly what I was doing right now. As long as she let me do this and so much more.

 

About The Author Black and Red

Robin CovingtonRobin Covington, who NYT Best Selling authors, Robyn Carr and Carly Phillips, said was their new “auto-buy author”, writes sizzling hot contemporary and paranormal romance.

A Night of Southern Comfort, her best-selling debut novel was a 2012 finalist in the RT Book Reviews Reviewers Choice Awards, earned 4.5 stars 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”. When she’s not exploring the theme of fooling around and falling in love, she’s collecting tasty man candy, indulging in a little comic book geek love, and stalking Joe Manganiello.

Robin is a member of the Romance Writers of America, the Washington and Maryland Romance Writers, a faculty member at Romance University, a member of the Waterworld Mermaids, and a contributor to the Happy Ever After blog at USA Today. You can find Robin on her website, Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter (@RobinCovington).

Robin lives in Maryland with her hilarious husband, brilliant children, and ginormous puppy.

Website: http://robincovingtonromance.com/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5812874.Robin_Covington
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RobinCovingtonAuthor?fref=ts
Twitter: https://twitter.com/robincovington
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Robin-Covington/e/B008BX1HY6

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GIVEAWAY: Robin is giving away a $50 Giftcard to the online bookstore of the winner’s choice. This is an International giveaway.

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

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One Night: Promised (One Night Trilogy #1) by Jodi Ellen Malpas-Review and Interview with the Author

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One-Night-Promised-Blog-Tour[1][1]

One Night: Promised (One Night Trilogy #1) by Jodi Ellen Malpas-Review and Interview with the Author

One Night Promised

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 5,2014

Livy notices him the moment he walks into the coffee shop. He’s heart-stoppingly stunning, with a blue-eyed gaze so piercing she’s almost too distracted to take his order. When he walks out the door, she thinks she’ll never see him again. Then she finds the note he left on his napkin . . . signed M.

All he wants is one night to worship her. No feelings, no commitment, nothing but pleasure. Every defense mechanism Livy has adopted during her solitary life is at risk of being obliterated by this confounding man. He’s obnoxious but well-mannered. He’s a gentleman but aloof. He’s passionate but emotionless. Yet the fascination is so powerful, Livy can’t deny him… or herself.

M awakens something in Livy, something deep and addictive that she never knew existed — and that she fears only he can satisfy. But she senses that behind the fast cars, fancy suits, and posh apartment, he’s aching inside. To have him, body and soul, she’ll have to brave his dark secrets. Delving into his world and breaking down his defenses become her obsession – an obsession that could shatter her heart beyond repair..

•••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: ONE NIGHT: PROMISED is the first instalment in in Jodi Ellen Malpas adult, contemporary One Night Trilogy erotic romance series focusing on Livy and M-a couple of broken birds whose past and present haunts their daily lives. This is a story where M wants twenty four hours with Livy-no strings, no commitments, no promises for the future. What ensues is a tumble down the rabbit hole for two people whose lives are more similar than not.

The focus of the storyline is the building relationship between Livy and the man she knows only as M-one based on a mutual need and desire but one that also has an expiry date of twenty four hours. M is a man whose obsession with Livy hides a dark secret-one that he isn’t willing to reveal. His personal and private life shall never meet and in this Livy is lost and confused when M wants to know everything about her life but refuses to reveal anything about his own.

The relationship is one of mutual attraction, sensuality and need. M is a man who knows what he wants and he wants Livy for his very own. M is a man with many secrets and issues-issues that become all too clear to Livy with each and every encounter.

Livy is a twenty four year old woman with a past mired in betrayal, regret and abandonment. Seven years earlier Livy’s life took an unexpected turn when she went on the hunt for information about her past. Today, Livy’s past is about to collide with her present and there isn’t anything she can to stop the collision. She is a woman who is quick to run when she perceives betrayal and pain, but in this she is also one to confront some of the issues head on when M keeps Livy in the dark about what has been happening in his world. When Livy goes looking for answers, what she finds will not only shatter her faith in M but shatter her heart as well.

ONE NIGHT: PROMISED is a sensual, seductive and intense storyline about two people who are perfect for one another. They balance one another’s needs and wants but what one wants isn’t necessarily what one needs. Jodi Ellen Malpas pulls the reader into a startling storyline where once secrets are revealed the drama that unfolds will leave you breathless and crying for more.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

Interview

 

TRC: Hi Jodi and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the release of ONE NIGHT: PROMISED and the new ONE NIGHT series.

Jodi Ellen MalpasJODI: Thank you!

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

Follow Jodi: Goodreads / Website / Twitter / Facebook

JODI: In a nutshell, I’m 34, a mother of two boys and I love losing myself in fiction, mainly my own.

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing?

JODI: Honestly? Me. I wanted to write a story that pleased me 100%. It wasn’t that the story was perfect, it was that I could take things in whatever direction I wanted and pump in every emotion to the point I lived it in my head. The fact that it pleased God knows how many other women was a huge bonus, obviously!

TRC: Would you please tell us something about the premise of your contemporary, adult ONE NIGHT: PROMISED trilogy?

One Night PromisedJODI: One Night follows the love story of Olivia and M. Unlike This Man, both of the main characters have a tainted history. It’s also a little darker than this man, and far more action-packed. After writing about my beloved lord, I wanted to capture my readers imagination with an entirely different set of characters. The idea of One Night and the characters of Livy and M snowballed for me. The tagline of PROMISED kind of says it all… One Night Will Never Be Enough.

TRC: Who or what was the inspiration behind the new series?

JODI: My inspiration is always fierce love – the kind that sends you dizzy and makes you lose all reason. I’m also a sucker when it comes to alpha men. Go figure! Now I also have an army of ladies who love my stories as much as me, so I have to add that their enthusiasm now inspires me too.

TRC: What challenges or difficulties (research, logistics, background) did you encounter writing this particular series?

JODI: My biggest challenge was getting over my worry to please my readers. I know how much Jesse is loved and I know people will compare him and M. They are so different, and I meant them to be. I’d be silly to try and recreate The Lord. There’s only one Jesse and it should stay that way. M, on the other hand, brings a new dimension to the term “alpha male”.

One Night DeniedTRC: ONE NIGHT: DENIED is the second instalment set for release in November 2014. Would you please tell us something about the premise?

JODI: PROMISED is focused mainly on Olivia and her history. When we move into DENIED, we know a lot about Livy, and not so much about M – except one very important thing. DENIED is mainly centred around M and his story, plus their growing but turbulent relationship.

TRC: Do you think the revelation of M’s business profession will come as a shock to most readers?

JODI: I think the signs are there and I intended them to be. Some have been utterly shocked, others have said they suspected early in the book. That particular revelation wasn’t meant to be a huge bombshell, though I’m glad some have been truly stunned by it. The way the exposure is approached by both Livy and M is more of a shock.

TRC: If you could virtually cast the characters of Livy and M which actors or models would best represent your ideal image?

JODI: HA! As with This Man, I’ll never disclose my muses. I think it’s important for my readers to build up their own perfect fit. I don’t want to spoil their imagination with my ideal image, just in case it isn’t theirs.

TRC: The final instalment in your popular THIS MAN trilogy was released in July 2013. Have you considered releasing a novella or short story to catch the readers up to date on Ava and Jesse’s life?

This Man Series

JODI: No, I haven’t. I don’t think I could write a short story!

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

JODI: A bit of both. For the most part, I direct the characters and storyline, but when you’ve developed characters and fleshed them out, as silly as it sounds, they have personalities. There are often times when I sit and wonder how a character would react to the situation I’ve put them in, in which case, they direct me.

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

JODI: Your first sentence: I’ve always said this! This is why I don’t think I can write a short story. I need room to develop the characters, let my readers get to know them. That’s when I believe you get that connection between you readers and your characters, and a true investment from your readers in the fictional world you’ve created. I’m in no position to give my take on why some writers fail to do this. Every writer captures someone’s imagination – just some more than others.

TRC: Writer’s Block is a very real phenomenon. How do you handle the pressures and anxiety of writer’s block?

JODI: I walk away from the laptop, usually after blankly staring at it for a while. It could drive you insane if you let it. I return the next day and generally find I can roll again.

TRC: Many authors bounce ideas and information with other authors or friends and family. With whom do you bounce ideas?

JODI: No one. I don’t think I’d have any friends if I blasted them with the stuff that flies around in my head! I always finish a book before I let anyone take a peek – usually my friend Kate. Then, of course, my agent.

TRC: What three things would you like to accomplish in the next five years?

JODI: I feel like I’ve achieved so much already in my short career. As long as I continue to consume my readers, I’ll be happy ☺

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

JODI: If they don’t know, there’s a reason 😉

TRC: On what are you currently working?

JODI: I’m taking a short break after what’s been a really intense writing and editing schedule. I’m not sure how long I’ll force myself to stay away from the laptop. Probably not long at all! I have a few ideas racing around and I’m itching to dive in.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

JODI: Only how grateful I am to all of my ladies for their continued love and support. #mushy!

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favourite TV Show – Sons of Anarchy

Last Movie You Saw – Dallas Buyers Club

Favourite Musical Group – Too many!

Dark or Milk Chocolate – Dark! And it has to be Green and Blacks 😉

Secret Celebrity Crush – Which one?!

Last Vacation Destination – Like a proper vacation? Madeira, and that was too long ago!

Do you have any pets? A Beagle. Prince Loui – or Lucifer when he’s being a nuisance

Pet Peeve – Bad Manners

TRC: Thank you Jodi for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on the new release and the new series.

JODI: Thank you, Sandy ☺

About The author

In October 2012, Jodi Ellen Malpas burst onto the e-publishing scene with her first novel, This Man. The erotic story of Ava O’Shea, a young interior designer, and Jesse Ward, the handsome playboy who knows no boundaries was a hit with readers and industry tastemakers alike. It quickly began its climb up the bestseller lists as fans urged their friends to read it. Malpas continued Ava and Jesse’s bestselling story with Beneath This Man and signed on with Forever/Grand Central Publishing to publish the third installment, This Man Confessed. In July 2013, This Man Confessed debuted solidly in the #1 spot on The New York Times E-Book Bestsellers List.

Now, with ONE NIGHT: PROMISED (Forever; August 5, 2014; $7.99/$15) Malpas is set to launch her second erotic romance trilogy—available in both e-book and trade paperback formats—that is sure to leave readers breathless for book two.

ONE NIGHT: PROMISED centers on Livy, a waitress who lives a rather quiet and solitary life. But all that is about to change. Livy notices him the moment he walks into the coffee shop where she works. He’s heart-stoppingly stunning, with a blue-eyed gaze so piercing she’s almost too distracted to take his order. When he leaves, she thinks she’ll never see him again. Then she finds the note he left on his napkin . . . signed M. All he wants is one night to worship her. No commitment, no strings, nothing but pleasure. Every defense mechanism Livy has adopted during her solitary life is at risk of being obliterated. The fascination is so powerful; Livy can’t deny him . . . or herself. Delving into his world becomes her obsession—one that could shatter her heart beyond repair.

Set in London, ONE NIGHT: PROMISED has all the elements that Malpas’s fans love about her novels: a relatable heroine, a mysterious and complicated hero, and of course steamy passion. Readers won’t have long to wait for the rest of Livy and M’s store either. The second book, One Night: Denied is scheduled for November 2014 and the final installment will out in early 2015.

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Power Play (Billionaire’s Club: New Orleans #2) by Mallery Malone-a review

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POWER PLAY (Billionaire’s Club: New Orleans #2) by Mallery Malone-a review

Power Play

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 5, 2014

Raphael Jerroult a.k.a. the Crescent City Casanova, has fought his whole life—both in and out of the boxing ring. Watching his father suffer for years after his mother’s death, he’s resolved to envelop himself in a shell made of money, MMA matches, and a different woman every day. But when an old flame, and the only woman he’s ever truly let in, comes back in his life, Raphael can’t stop being distracted by the red-headed beauty with the curves that go on for days…

Macy Lovelace has no desire to start things up again with Raphael. Memories of the sweetest torture she’s ever known can’t make her forget that he’s not cut out for long-term love. But Macy’s the only girl who Raphael ever let in, the only girl who really knows his sexy, dangerous side. And with the Crescent City Casanova, the only way to keep up, is to be tied down…

•••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: POWER PLAY is the second instalment in Mallery Malone’s contemporary, adult Billionaire’s Club: New Orleans erotic romance series focusing on three friends (Sebastian, Gabriel , Raphael) who grew up on the mean streets of New Orleans. Together they have fought their way to the top, starting in the school of Hard Knocks-a gym where local kids learn to fight with boxing gloves and not guns. All three men are equal partners in DJD Holding-the parent club to Hard Knocks. This is former MMA fighter Raphael Jerroult and, chef/restaurant owner Macy Lovelace’s story.

Told from third person POV, the storyline follows the rekindling of a relationship that fell apart eight years earlier. Raphael and Macy were childhood best friends, sweethearts and first loves but following the death of Raphael’s mother and subsequent suicide of his emotionally absent father, Raphael wanted to distance himself from Macy fearing he would turn out just like his father. Sending Macy to Paris to study cooking, Raphael realized he had made a mistake but two months later Macy had disappeared and no one would tell Raphael where she had gone. Fast forward eight years when Macy and Raphael would run into one another at Sebastian and Renata’s (Knock Out book 1) engagement party and the love they once felt for one another-has never died.

The relationship between Macy and Raphael is sensual, sexual and intimate. Macy and Raphael have never stopped loving one another but time, distance and miscommunication pushed the best friends and lovers in opposite directions believing that, in the end, neither one wanted the other. But Macy has a secret-one that could destroy the foundation of their second chance at love-and when the truth is revealed, Raphael will walk away-once again.

The secondary characters include Sebastian and Renata (book 1), and Gabriel who will be featured in Take Down-book #3. The world building continues as the friendship between Raphael, Sebastian and Gabriel follows each man as he finds the love of his life while focusing on the business of DJD Holdings.

Mallery Malone writes a seductive and compelling storyline about a second chance at love for two people who have never stopped loving one another. The love making is intense, emotional and passionate for two people whose lives splintered at a time when they needed each other the most but have been brought back together by a mutual friendship, a secretive past and two hearts that will never forget.

Reading Order
1. Knock Out
2. Power Play
3. Take Down (September 2014)

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

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How To Handle a Heartbreaker by Marie Harte-Review, Guest Post and Giveaway

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How To Handle A Heartbreaker by Marie Harte-Review, Guest Post and Giveaway

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How To Handle A Heartbreaker
The McCauley Brothers #2
by Marie Harte
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance, erotic
Release Date: August 5, 2014

How to Handle A Heartbreaker

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

HOW TO HANDLE A HEARTBREAKER (McCauley Brothers #2) by Marie Harte

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 5, 2014

It’s lust-at-first-sight when Brody Singer first sees Abby Dunn. Abby looks a lot like a woman he once knew, one who died years ago. But Abby’s definitely different—shyer but sexier.

Abby’s still trying to put her last disastrous relationship behind her and overcome the flaws her ex wouldn’t let her forget. But somehow Brody isn’t getting the hint. It doesn’t help that when writing her steamy novels, she keeps casting Brody as the hero.

Only Abby can write her own ending—will she choose her own happily-ever-after, or stay safe in her shell?

••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: HOW TO HANDLE A HEARTBREAKER is the second instalment in Marie Harte’s contemporary, adult, erotic McCauley Brothers romance series. This is Brody Singer and Abby Dunn’s storyline. Brody has been and always will be part of the McCauley family and this story will show how that it isn’t the blood that runs in your veins that makes you a family but the love of the people who accept who you are. Although this is the second storyline in the series it can be read as a stand alone without too much difficulty-any previous storyline information is revealed where necessary.

The premise follows the building relationship between Brody and Abby. Brody co-owns a plumbing business with his ‘brother’ Flynn McCauley, and web designer Abby Dunn is the woman who has caught his attention. Never one to stick in a relationship for very long, Brody’s attraction to Abby is immediate and unwanted. Brody’s early years have left a mark on his heart and his soul, and he believes that he will never be worthy of anyone’s love and affection. He has a reputation with the women but he has always been a one-woman man.

Abby has a secret –she writes erotic romance novels- and only a few close friends know the truth. When Brody discovers Abby’s secrets she makes him an offer he cannot refuse. Abby’s ex has done a number with her heart and her self esteem, and she is hoping that Brody won’t run away when the truth about what she desires is revealed.

The relationship between Brody and Abby is a friends to lovers storyline although their friendship had always been one of subtle innuendo and teasing. Having met Abby only two years before, all of the McCauley’s see that Brody and Abby have an attraction for one another but in truth Brody is frightened by his feelings and his past. Growing up as part of the tight knit McCauley family has made him feel wanted and loved, but in the end he is still not a part of the family by blood. Brody and Abby’s love scenes are intimate, sexy, arousing and hot. Brody is a plumber who likes to talk dirty in bed.

The secondary characters include the entire McCauley clan-they are colorful, funny, supportive, revealing and complement Abby and Brody. Then there are those characters who will destroy our hero with one look or one word, and if you have a heart, you can’t help but feel for a man whose former life had brought him to hell and back.

Marie Harte has written an emotional and sometimes heartbreaking storyline. There are moments of family love and friendship; humor and brotherly teasing; ugly tears and painful shame. We watch as one man must overcome the shame of his past, the memories of his childhood, and the pain and anguish of the family that destroyed his life.

HOW TO HANDLE A HEARTBREAKER is a story where two people will discover that life is about the here and now; that our past does not define who we are but will only make us stronger in the end.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

Click HERE for our review of book 1-The Troublemaker Next Door

Guest post-Black and White

Developing the leading characters in How to Handle a Heartbreaker

People always ask me how I write. Do I plot it out beforehand or let the characters lead the story? Pantser or plotter?

I’m a little bit of both. For my McCauley Brothers series, I had to send in short synopses of stories two through four. Book one had been accepted, but not the others. So when I started writing How to Handle a Heartbreaker, I had a rough outline of how the characters got from A to Z. That changed a bit when I was writing, but what never changed were the characters and how they reacted to obstacles throughout the book.

I think that even if you’re a pantser, you need to have solid characters. Before I write a story, I know my protagonists inside and out. If I don’t, I find out while writing the story and get stuck in spots. And let me tell you, getting stuck is no fun.

When I wrote How to Handle a Heartbreaker, I’d already introduced Abby and Brody, the main characters, in the previous book, The Troublemaker Next Door. From the start, Abby and Brody had to be more than two-dimensional. Abby is at heart shy and vulnerable, suffering from a bad breakup that made her question her merit as both a woman and a lover. Brody, the hero, is the unofficially adopted McCauley. He’s always felt like less than his brothers because of the abuse he suffered as a child from his biological family. As much as he wants to be loved and acts like he’s Prince Charming, he’s actually hiding insecurity and the feeling that he’s not worthy.

From these vulnerabilities, the characters grow and react throughout all four books. How to Handle a Heartbreaker shows how Abby deals with her attraction to Brody, a man she considers far outside her league. And in Brody’s actions, we see that he’s much more than a blond Adonis with sex appeal, but still that little boy who never thought he’d be good enough.

What makes the characters shine, in my opinion, is how they not only deal with adversity, but how they deal with each other. Family is the key element in this series, and watching the other brothers handle Brody was both funny and heartbreaking. (I admit I cried writing a few scenes, and I never cry.) I had worried about writing a character who’s a writer, since I’m a writer and that can come off as cliché. But Abby is much different than me. (Lucky girl gets Brody!) I could understand her motivations and loved putting her in awkward positions to deal with her reality—not how she perceives things, but as they really are.

I hope you enjoy Abby and Brody. They were a thrill to write about and made my heart happy giving them an ending that fits. Surprisingly, the most difficult part of this book to write was giving Mutt his name. I had no idea what it would be until I came to that point, which struck me as odd considering he was one of my favorite characters in this story. When I learned his name, it all made sense. *grin*

I love How to Handle a Heartbreaker, and I hope you will too.

Thanks for having me, The Reading Café!

~~Marie~~

HE CAN’T GET HER OUT OF HIS HEAD

It’s lust at first sight when Brody Singer first lays eyes on Abby Dunn. The dark-haired beauty looks a lot like a woman he once knew, who died years ago. At first, Brody fears his attraction is a holdover from that secret crush, but Abby’s definitely different. She’s a lot shyer, a lot sexier, and despite her attempts to dissuade his interest, absolutely mesmerizing.

SHE CAN’T GET HIM OUT OF HER BOOKS

Abby isn’t having it. She’s still trying to put her last disastrous relationship behind her and overcome the flaws her ex wouldn’t let her forget. But somehow Brody isn’t getting the hint. It doesn’t help that when writing her steamy novels, she keeps casting Brody as the hero.
Brody is more than happy to serve as her muse and eager to help make sure her “research” is authentic. But when their research turns into something real…will she choose her own happily ever after?

 

About The Author Black and White

Follow: Goodreads / Twitter /Website/ Facebook

Marie HarteCaffeine addict, boy referee, and romance aficionado, USA Today bestselling author Marie Harte has over 100 books published with more constantly on the way. She’s a confessed bibliophile and devotee of action movies. Whether hiking in Central Oregon, biking around town, or hanging at the local tea shop, she’s constantly plotting to give everyone a happily ever after. Visit http://marieharte.com and fall in love.

 

Giveaway -black and white

Marie and her publisher are offering a paper copy of HOW TO HANDLE A HEARTBREAKER to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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

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

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

4. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

5. Follow us on Goodreads

6. Like Marie Harte on Facebook for an additional entry.

7. Giveaway is open to USA and Canada only.

8. Giveaway runs from August 4 to August 8, 2014

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Good Karma (Strong Karma #1) by Donya Lynne-a review

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Good Karma (Strong Karma #1) by Donya Lynne-a review

Good Karma

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 25, 2014

Bashful Karma Mason has been too concerned with college—and now work—to embrace her sexuality. Bullied as a child, she hides behind an unremarkable wardrobe and relegates herself to the shadows. But when her best friend convinces her to attend a charity benefit in Chicago wearing a stunning red dress that catches the eye of every man in the room, she discovers a surprising side to her personality. One that adores the spotlight but has no idea how to handle the attention.

Mark Strong, a wealthy Chicago businessman, is brimming with confidence. He’s in total control. Nothing—and no one—escapes his notice. However, Mark carries a heavy, painful burden. After finding his fiancée with another man six years ago, he’s erected a fortress around his heart, unwilling to let himself fall in love again. But when enchanting Karma snares his gaze from across the room, he has no idea she will shatter his carefully ordered life.

What starts out as a casual flirtation takes a series of surprising turns as Mark and Karma embark on a sensual journey destined by fate. Mark is driven to know Karma, understand her…educate her, and Karma is his willing student, eager to experience the pleasure he promises. But when the student becomes the teacher, Mark has to make a choice between taking another chance on love or a future alone.

•••••••••••••••••••••

GOOD KARMA is the first instalment in Donya Lynne’s new, adult, contemporary Strong Karma erotic romance series focusing on Karma Mason and Mark Strong. Our couple first meet at a charity event where Karma was willing to step out of her comfort zone and into a sexy one night stand. What follows is a forbidden relationship between two people whose lives will intertwine between the boardroom and the bedroom.

The storyline focus is on the building relationship between Karma and Mark. Following their ‘almost’ one night stand, Karma discovers that Mark has been hired to streamline the company for which she works. Knowing that embarking on a sexual relationship could very well end their careers, Mark and Karma have a difficult time keeping their work and their private lives apart. Jealous and vindictive co-workers will set their sights on Karma hoping to take her down with the rest of the trash.

The relationship between Mark and Karma is sensual, seductive and educational. Mark is a complex man with more experience and he is willing to teach Karma a thing or two about what he wants and where the two shall go. Mark’s past all but controls his present, and Karma’s insecurities and fragile ego are fodder for those people who believe they have something to gain by destroying what little is left of Karma’s faith.

The secondary characters are colorful: from co-workers to family Karma must fight the barrage and personal attacks on both her personality, her appearance and her position at work. The ground rules have been set for a woman whose life has revolved around trying to make it in a world controlled by power and beauty.

The storyline line ends with a bit of a cliffhanger-one that will evoke a tear or two or ten. I reread the passage several times and each time I cried harder than the last.

Donya Lynne’s foray into the world of contemporary erotic romance is provocative, emotional and heartbreaking. There is startling truth and a staggering fall-out for two people who have fallen in love but for one the head doesn’t know what the heart has done. GOOD KARMA looks at two people whose relationship is built upon a temporary framework-one that will come crashing down when one man is afraid to take a chance.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Wicked Flames (Solsti Prophecy #3) by Sharon Kay-a review

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Wicked Flames (Solsti Prophecy #3) by Sharon Kay-a review

Pageflex Persona [document: PRS0000026_00029]

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 2014

Gin Bonham lives with a dark secret. Born with an ability she never wanted, she builds her life around science and logic, running from the terror she is capable of causing. When sexy stranger Mathias spots her on a dance floor and cuts in, he leads Gin in a sensual rhythm that continues long after the music stops. But Mathias hides the fact that he knows exactly what she can do: in the deepest recesses of her mind lurks the power to manipulate fire. Destiny is coming for her and it doesn’t care if she’s ready or not.

Mathias possesses tracking and espionage skills so extraordinary that his fellow Lash demons call him The Hunter. Pursue and interrogate. He never fails. When he is tasked with coaxing Gin to work with the Lash demons against a common enemy, he relishes the challenge. But meeting her awakens a new, primal drive that pulls him toward her even as his tactics break her heart.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Welcome back to the awesome realm of Torth and the legendary prophecy of the Solsti sisters! Each of the Solsti sister controls the elements of air, water, fire and earth which is already phenomenal but they are also destined to restore the order and balance in the realms. It’s kind of crazy to think about to have a very impressive power but also be given a very large responsibility that comes with it. While it was a blast to meet Nicole who controls the air and Brooke who controls water totally kick butt and completely embrace their abilities, Gin who controls fire is a totally different story. Gin does the opposite and doesn’t embrace her abilities but looks at her ability to control fire likes it’s a curse. I like to call her the reluctant Solsti but don’t worry as I don’t like her less than Brooke or Nicole. Gin turned out to be a really smart scientist who got her Masters as well as a skilled ballroom dancer. I liked how the book described her to be a both-side of the brain type of gal. But the thing I liked about all the sisters is that they all want to help others. ☺

I’ve always liked Mathias from Wicked Waves and I was glad to see that he was going to end up with Gin. I figured if anyone was going to persuade and get Gin past her demons about using her powers it was going to be Mathias. I got this vibe that Mathias just has a way with others as a tracker, he has a lot of connections to call in with all sorts of favors as well as get what he wants from others. With all that said, Mathias came off as a very kind and compassionate man. I really enjoyed how Gin and Mathias first met, it was such a sexy way to meet that Sharon Kay has to be a romantic to create such a scene. If you love sexy ballroom dances complete with instant sensual chemistry than you’ll love this scene along with fanning yourself with the sizzling spiciness of this scene. With such a great way for a relationship to start and take off, I had to admit that I desired more Gin and Mathias moments. I admit that at times I felt like some of their bonding scenes seemed rushed. Don’t get me wrong though because I really do like them as a couple and enjoyed their love scenes but I liked them so much that I wanted more love scenes from them. And even though I enjoy and look forward to the hot and steamy love scenes, the emotional substance is equally important to me in which this book was very rich. I absolutely love the scene where Gin and Mathias are sitting in the beach of Tarsa where Gin opens up to Mathias why she felt like her abilities were a curse and wanted nothing to do with them all the while Mathias listens to her with no judgment, compassion and complete understanding. It was such a beautifully written turning point in the book where Gin accepts her powers as well as her blooming relationship with Mathias. It was also a scene that you get to witness the beauty of Gin using her powers since she seldom uses her powers in the book.

Another thing to note is that I always find it interesting how Sharon Kay has the ability to tie in parts that seem irrelevant to the story until you find out later how it ties in. I love the shocking revelations you get to find out in the book. Not only that but it also paves the way to the next book that hints that Nicole, Brooke and Gin’s sister thought to be dead is very much alive. Also this book goes a whole lot more into the story arc of the evil Elegia and her plans. I am really enjoying this series and I very much look forward to the next book. I know there are a lot of element books and all but take my word for it that this series is really worth reading. ☺

Reading Order
Wicked Wind
Wicked Waves
Wicked Flames

Copy supplied by the author

Reviewed by Xtina

about the author

FOLLOW: Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

Sharon KaySharon Kay writes award-winning fiction and can never get enough reading time. She loves paranormal romance, with romantic suspense following close on its heels. She loves winter and black coffee, and is endlessly inspired to write kick-ass heroines and the men strong enough to capture their hearts.

Sharon lives in the Chicago area with her husband and son, and didn’t expect to write one book, let alone a series. But WICKED WIND and the Solsti series formed in her head one weekend and refused to stay quiet until she put pen to paper. Her characters tend to keep her up at night, as they banter, fall in love, and slay endless varieties of power-hungry demons.

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Hillbilly Rockstar (Blacktop Cowboy #6) by Lorelei James-Review and Giveaway

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Hillbilly Rockstar (Blacktop Cowboy #6) by Lorelei James-Review and Giveaway

Hillbilly Rockstar Banner

HILLBILLY ROCKSTAR
(Blacktop Cowboy #6)
by Lorelei James
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic romance

Hillbilly Rockstar

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 5, 2014

She’s protecting his body and guarding her heart…

Country music star Devin McClain understands there’s a downside to life in the public eye, but the laidback Wyoming cowboy has never imagined he’d attract crazed fans who would do anything to garner his attention. When veiled threats become real, he agrees to hire a discreet security detail. But Devin is shocked when that bodyguard is a hard-bodied woman. He’s even more stunned to be attracted to the steely-eyed stunner.

Former soldier Liberty Masterson’s return to civilian life has been wrought with challenges until she lands a job with a prestigious security firm. But when she agrees to provide personal protection during a cross-country tour, she doesn’t realize she has signed up to masquerade as the playboy star’s girlfriend. Though she’s more comfortable in combat boots than high heels, she has no choice but to appear to be the sexy groupie Devin prefers.

Living in close quarters causes the chemistry between them to ignite, and Devin realizes he wants to turn their charade of a romance into reality. Although Liberty surrenders to his every whim behind closed doors, she fears the sexy country star doesn’t see the real her; and Devin can’t help but worry when the tour ends that there might not be enough between them to build something that won’t fade away…

••••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: HILLBILLY ROCKSTAR is the sixth instalment in Lorelei James’s adult, contemporary Blacktop Cowboy erotic romance series focusing on a group of friends and family from Wyoming. This is country music superstar Devin McClain and former soldier now bodyguard Liberty Masterson’s storyline. Although this is the sixth book in the series it can be read as a stand alone without any problems. A few of the previous storyline characters make a cameo appearance but their history is not necessary to the enjoyment of the story.

The focus of the story are the threats against musician Devin McClain. Following the near fatal beating of his tour bus driver, Devin’s production team hire a bodyguard who must stick by Devin 24/7. What Devin doesn’t expect is hard nosed, former soldier Liberty Masterson –his home town friend’s sister in law and a woman in whom he has no sexual interest. Liberty is a take no prisoners kind of bodyguard. She has been hired to guard and protect Devin McClain but life on the road is difficult when groupies, wanna-bes and fans surround Devin at every opportunity.

As the storyline develops, so too does the relationship between Devin and Liberty. When Liberty is required to pose as Devin’s new personal assistant, it doesn’t take long before our couple develop feelings for one another. The sex scenes are hot, sensual and erotic. Nothing is off limits and Devin likes to spice up their sex life at every opportunity.

The secondary characters include the members of the band, as well as the roadies, tour bus operators and some fans. We get up close and personal with Liberty’s extended family; the band; and anyone who has anything to do with the security team assigned to protect the country star.

Lorelei James takes the reader behind the scenes and onto the tour bus of the rich and famous of country music. The world building connects opening acts with the main attraction; friendships develop and relationships heal. The storyline energy builds throughout the novel where there are intense moments of anger, betrayal, heartbreak and love. HILLBILLY ROCKSTAR is a passionate look at two people from different worlds who find one another at a dangerous time in both of their lives.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

About The author

 

Lorelei-Jamesjpg

 

Lorelei James is the USA Today and New York Times bestselling author of the Blacktop Cowboys and Rough Riders series as well as the steamy new Mastered series. She lives in the Black Hills of western South Dakota with her family.

Website • Blog • Twitter • Facebook • Goodreads

 

 

giveaway

Lorelei and her publisher are offering a paper copy of HILLBILLY ROCKSTAR to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1. Please register using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

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

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

4. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry

5. LIKE  Lorelei James  on Facebook.

6. The giveaway is open to U.S. only.

7. The giveaway runs from August 2  to August 6, 2014

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Tiger Lily (Gilded Flower #3) by Vivian Winslow-a review

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Tiger Lily (Gilded Flower #3) by Vivian Winslow-a review

Tiger Lily

ebook .99¢ -> Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

About the book: Release Date July 20,2014

Weary from battling a hostile takeover attempt of her family’s company, Lily seeks a distraction in Todd, an erstwhile bartender with a large trust fund and magical tongue. Meanwhile, a connection seems to be developing between Lily and Alejandro, a wealthy and gorgeous Cuban-American, whose brother, Rodrigo, is dating Lily’s twin sister, Dahlia. When Alejandro unexpectedly rebuffs Lily one night, she is deeply dismayed. But, after seeing Alejandro’s picture with a gorgeous Latina model in the gossip pages, Lily thinks it wasn’t just a misunderstanding. When the sisters and brothers reunite in Aspen for a ski weekend, will Lily’s heart remain frozen or will the fire between her and Alejandro rekindle and melt away the ice?

••••••••••••••••••

3.5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

Tiger Lily by Vivian Winslow is the last book of her trilogy that follows Lily Baron’s road to self discovery. I tell you, Lily really bloomed with strength and purpose in this final short story. Starting out as a socialite and having her every move dictated by her status in society, it was really great to experience her full circle to maturity and self worth.

We were left with a big revelation in the last book, and Lily has to address which path she is going to take despite this revelation. Her family’s company is draining her while she assumes the acting CEO position, and selling this company has become a real option. Gustavo (her older lover that she feels betrayed her) is still pursuing her and will not take no for an answer so it is up to Lily to make her position clear regardless of the strong attraction and magnetic pull she feels towards him. Todd, her ever reliable bed buddy is always on call for those extra stressful days (man can those two fire up the sheets .. or should I say cool them off .. pass the mint ice cream please … LOL). It is however, her sisters boyfriend brother who is calling to her heart. Alejandro rouses something in Lily that isn’t based on lies, or one night stands and I tell you this man is the real deal. He is sweet and sensitive and a total keeper and Lily is quite hurt when her advances are first rejected. It is however, all laid out when a ski trip reunites our couple and the magic is flowing.

This is another quick read and a tidy ending for Lily Baron. I love that Vivian Winslow leaves us with anticipation for other characters in this story .. namely Lily’s sister Dahlia. I did find this story rushed and a little abrupt chapter to chapter. I prefer a more natural flow, but in saying that it was very easy to follow the story and fall in love with some of the characters. Vivian is quite talented at writing some steamy scenes as well .. my toes may have curled a time or two!

HAPPY READING!

Reading Order
Gilded Lily
Calla Lily
Tiger Lily

Reviewed by Rachel T

Copy supplied by the author

about the author

vivian winslowFollow: Goodreads / Facebook

Having spent most of the last two decades abroad, Vivian Winslow currently resides in New York City with her husband and two grade school-aged children. Her stories are heavily influenced by her ex-pat experiences. The Gilded Flower Series is her first foray into erotic romance.

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