Tag Archives: Shiloh Walker

A DRAGON’S DESIRE (The Pretern Wars 2) by Shiloh Walker -a review

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A DRAGON’S DESIRE (The Pretern Wars 2) by Shiloh Walker -a review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 18, 2022.

You will wander, you will roam

SORIN: He is Zmeu, one of the great dragons of myth.

As a young dragon, he was told an important truth: Dragons do not fall in love. They definitely do not fall in love with mortal women.

It’s a lesson Sorin takes to heart. He might have had a mortal mother, but mortals had also killed her, leaving him alone.

A dragon grown, he dwells in an impenetrable castle, living a dragon’s best life. He dances with fae swan maidens, steals baubles from unknowing kings, scoffs at mortals stumbling through life wasting time on war, hate…love.

Then love finds him.

In the village of his birth, a woman teaches him a truth his dragon family hadn’t—it’s rather easy for a dragon to find love.

Ever seeking solace, ever seeking home

Easy to love, yes. But understanding the woman who steals his heart? Not so easy. He doesn’t realize it at the time, his arrogance leading him to assume he knew best. After all, he was a dragon. Sorin’s arrogance led to her death…and a curse.

Hundreds of years later, living in the New World as the world prepares for war, he is almost numb to the curse that haunts him still.

You will wander, you will roam, they’d said. He did. But seeking solace, seeking home? Home and solace were lost to him, every bit as much as his love.

As penance, he guards the mortals in his territory, as she had protected those under her care. He’ll hold off the coming war as long as possible. When the time comes to take up a sword—or breathe fire—he will. It’s little comfort, but his lost love would expect him to protect. So he does.

One night, a sudden awareness yanks him from deepest sleep. Chasing the faint magical trail, he finds a woman battling for her life. Just before a killing strike, he sees her eyes…eyes of haunting green.

The eyes of the woman he’d loved, the eyes of the woman he’d killed.

•••••••

REVIEW:  A DRAGON’S DESIRE is the second instalment in Shiloh Walker’s adult THE PRETERN WARS paranormal/fantasy romance series. This is dragon shifter Sorin, and Adela/Witchling Fae Gia’s story line. A DRAGON’S DESIRE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

Told from third person perspective, covering several hundred years, A DRAGON’S DESIRE focuses on Zmeu dragon Sorin, a powerful beast who, hundreds of years earlier, fell hard for a human, a need that eventually killed the woman he could never love. Cursed to wander the world without friendship or love, Sorin eventually takes refuge in America, considering sleeping for all eternity. Fast forward to present day wherein Sorin, who now lays claim to a vast territory in the United States, is drawn to a stranger, a stranger who bears a striking familiarity to the woman he lost. Enter Gia, a witchling/Fae, a powerful supernatural in her own right but a woman who is protecting a young boy from a fate bestowed upon him by a powerful curse. As Gia, Sorin, Amy and her young son Wyn Bitterbirch, journey away from the hate that follows, a build up to war is directed at anyone not considered normal by human standards.

There is a war approaching, a war between the humans and ‘preternatural’ beings including witches and dragons, shifters and Fae. The revelation of ‘something other’ has provoked the fear of the unknown, and a war to decimate anything or anyone not of human blood is about to take hold, killing millions and destroying thousands of lives.

The relationship between Sorin and Gia is one of second chances, of a sorts. Gia is the embodiment of Adela, the woman Sorin wanted as a mate but a woman Sorin destroyed by his need and lust. Not necessarily a story of reincarnation but a tale of transmigration in which Adela’s memories, soul and magic are now a part of someone else. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.

We are introduced to Amy, and her son Wyn Bitterbirch, a young boy who is a halfling Fae. The requisite evil has many faces.

A DRAGON’S DESIRE is a story of lust and need, obsession and revelation, discrimination and speciesism, forgiveness, acceptance and love. The premise is entertaining, dramatic and captivating; the romance is seductive; the characters are powerful and strong.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Spectre by Shiloh Walker-a review

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SPECTRE by Shiloh Walker-a review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 22, 2019

Myth. Monster. Mine.

Spectre

I wasn’t even a man when I took a life for the first time, although you couldn’t say I was a child. If I’d ever had a childhood, it hadn’t lasted long. My father, may he rot in hell, had seen to that. I took his life as well and that, too, happened before I was old enough to be considered a grown man.
I never regretted it for a second.

That path almost led to my own grave, and would have, if I hadn’t stumbled across somebody who was as different from my father as day was from night. Sarge had seen the monster lurking inside, so he took control, gave me guidelines, rules, so I wouldn’t be the monster my father had planned.

It worked. I restrained the worst of my rage and honed the skills that had been drilled into me—theft, stealth… assassination. The broken child ceased to exist and I became Spectre, an assassin spoken of in whispers, hired to take out the worst of humanity.

Then I was sent to kill her…and my world came to a screeching halt.

Tia

It’s taken a long time, but I finally had a nice, steady routine. I stopped trying to conform to the neurotypicals of the world and found my own normal.

Normal went out the window when I walked into my kitchen and found a strange (hot), dangerous looking (so fricking hot) man drugging my new dog.

It probably wasn’t the smartest thing to leap at him like a banshee and attack, but that’s what I did.

When my attempt to wreck the vehicle was averted, my kidnapper didn’t hurt or threaten me. In fact, he told me he wanted to protect me.

This (hot) guy had to be crazy. But if he was crazy, what did that make me? Because I believed him. More, I found myself seeing something beyond the rigid, blank mask he wore. He kept trying to push me away, but I couldn’t seem to keep my distance.

He calls himself a monster…but when I look at him, that isn’t what I see. I just see him…and I know he’s meant to be mine.

Warning: This isn’t a snuggly, comfy read. The male MC is a hired killer, while the heroine is neuro-atypical. Some dark material is involved—the hero kidnaps the heroine. There’s also violence when he goes on a rampage against those who put a contract on her. Also references of abuse (not against the heroine). Also very graphic, erotic scenes with minor bondage play.

•••••••••

REVIEW: SPECTRE by Shiloh Walker is a contemporary, adult, stand alone, dark erotic romance novel focusing on assassin for hire Meric aka Spectre aka Casper Bach, and artist Tia Bailey.

NOTE: There are some scenes of bondage, discipline and anal play that may not be suitable for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Tia and Spectre) SPECTRE follows Meric aka Spectre Bach as he is hired to kill the half-sister of the police detective who was responsible for the taking down a man responsible for a child prostitution ring but all things considered Spectre had no desire to assassinate the woman that would one day, call to his heart. Stalking Tia Bailey had been easy but meeting our heroine forced Spectre to re-evaluate his chosen profession as his heart battled with what he was paid to do. What ensues is a cross-country journey in an effort to keep our heroine safe; the building but tempestuous relationship between Tia and Spectre, and the potential fall-out as Spectre must fulfil a promise to himself, and take down the people who destroyed so many lives.

Tia Bailey has Asperger’s; a high functioning form of Autism wherein she has the tendency to speak her mind both in and out of social situations but our heroine finds herself falling for the man hired to kill, a killer she is quickly learning to call her own. Meric Bach aka Spectre’s earlier life destroyed any semblance of happiness or normality. Having never felt loved or cared for, Spectre spent his early years learning to kill in an effort to protect himself from grievous harm. Falling for Tia Bailey meant opening his heart and revealing his past, a past he believes will condemn him in the eyes of the woman he loves.

The relationship between Tia and Spectre begins acrimoniously when Spectre is hired to kill our heroine. Unable to murder an innocent woman, Spectre then abducts Tia Bailey, in an effort to protect her from those willing to destroy her brother in the process. A quick ‘Stockholm-esque’ Syndrome relationship quickly develops as Tia begins to consider a life on the run with the man with whom she will fall in love. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense but I struggle with the use of a certain four-letter word used liberally throughout the story.

We are introduced to Tia’s half-brother Detective Mac Bailey; Meric’s guardian Sarge, as well as friends Leo Wallace and hacker Theodosia

SPECTRE is a dark, gritty and emotional story line between two people whose lives could not have been any more different. The premise is engaging and enthralling: the characters are energetic, dynamic and colorful; the romance is raw, spicy and spirited.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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The Right Kind of Trouble / The Trouble With Temptation (The McKays 2 & 3) by Shiloh Walker-a review

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THE RIGHT KIND OF TROUBLE / THE TROUBLE WITH TEMPTATION ( The McKays # 2 & #3) by Shiloh Walker-a review

The Right Kind of Trouble

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 2, 2016

Desire won’t take no for an answer.
In the small Southern town of McKay’s Treasure, everybody knows that the handsome local police chief, Gideon Marshall, has been carrying a torch for Moira McKay. It’s also no secret that Moira has been rejecting Gideon since…forever. But after an attack from a mysterious stranger bent on taking down the McKay family, Moira becomes filled with distrust toward most men. Now she wonders whether she’s been wrong about Gideon all along—and if it’s not too late to admit him back into her life…and into her bed…
Gideon has finally convinced his wasted heart to give up on Moira, who he’s loved since he was sixteen years old. Moira’s attack changes everything, however—and he vows to protect her. But how much is he willing to risk for a woman who’s always kept him at bay…until now? And is it too late for Moira to tell him that her love for him has always been locked deep in her heart—and he holds the key?

•••••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE RIGHT KIND OF TROUBLE is the third and final? instalment in Shiloh Walker’s contemporary, adult THE McKAYS romantic, suspense series focusing on the McKay siblings of McKay’s Treasure. This is police chief Gideon Marshall, and Moira McKay’s story line. THE RIGHT KIND OF TROUBLE can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading the books in order as there is a continuing story line running throughout the series.

Told from several third person points of view THE RIGHT KIND OF TROUBLE focuses on the search for the person(s) responsible for the ongoing attacks against the McKay family, and the rebuilding of the relationship between Gideon Marshall, McKay’s Treasure police chief, and Moira McKay-the woman he has loved for most of his life. Eighteen years earlier Moira pushed way the only man that she would ever love following the death of her parents when Moira began both mother and father to her younger siblings, and in the ensuing years Gideon has struggled with his love for a woman who is unable to let go of the past. The push and pull, back and forth between our leading couple is a battle of the heart and the mind. Gideon is unaware of the reasons for Moira’s continuous cold shoulder, and our hero is ready to move on with someone else. When Moira is attacked by an unknown assailant the search is on for the person(s) hoping to destroy the entire McKay family.

The relationship between Gideon and Moira is one of second chances. Moira’s acerbic personality does very little to endear this reader to her treatment of the man she claims to love. At every opportunity Moira’s bitterness and anger is directed at Gideon, and when our hero is willing to walk away leaving Moira to get on with her life, Moira’s jealousy begins to cast doubts on her true feelings for the man she continues to push away. Moira’s past is shrouded in heartbreak and pain, and she is having difficulty keeping her emotions in check. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive.

THE RIGHT KIND OF TROUBLE has a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including all of the previous story line couples; the local police department personnel, Moira’s ex husband, and a number of towns people questioned about the attacks against the McKay family. We are also introduced to dog breeder Zeke, a friend of police chief Gideon Marshall, and a man whose hatred for the McKay’s leads our heroine to start an investigation into her family history with long time residents of McKay’s Treasure.

The world building continues to look at the investigation into the attacks against the McKay siblings. For one hundred and fifty years, the McKay family has worked and owned most of the town, and in the ensuing years rumors have spread about a buried treasure that seems to attract the ‘crazies’ and everyone who believes they have been wronged by the McKays. Sometime the least likely suspect is someone very close.

THE RIGHT KIND OF TROUBLE is a fast paced story of mystery, suspense, romance and second chances. The premise is engaging and thrilling; the romance is passionate but challenging; the colourful characters are an eclectic mix of small town people, family and friendships. THE RIGHT KIND OF TROUBLE is a wonderful story about family; a fateful story about love; a passionate tale about how far some people will go when driven to desperation.

Reading Order
Headed For Trouble
The Trouble With Temptation (see review below)
The Right Kind of Trouble

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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The Trouble With TemptationTHE TROUBLE WITH TEMPTATION
(The McKays #2)
by Shiloh Walker
Genre: adult, contemporary, romantic, suspense

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 3, 2016

Love is the greatest risk of all.
After seven days in a coma, Hannah Parker remembers nothing about the accident that landed her in the hospital–or how she ended up pregnant with Brannon’s baby, the man she’s loved since high school. Her body and heart have burned for him for years, and when she wakes up, he’s sleeping by her bedside, anxious to keep her safe at all costs. But as Hannah struggles with her amnesia, a threat looms closer–one that could have deadly consequences if she recovers her memories. She will have to trust Brannon completely if she is to keep what haunts her at bay…and their baby safe….

Brannon McKay spent the last ten years fantasizing about Hannah. In his mind, he’s explored every passionate scenario he can think of while, in real life, Brannon took their budding relationship and threw it away with both hands. Hannah doesn’t remember what happened but, now that she is awake, Brannon would rather die than watch her walk away again. When Hannah and his unborn child’s life is threatened, Brannon must stake claim to the woman who has held his heart captive for years…or risk disaster tearing them apart

•••••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE TROUBLE WITH TEMPTATION is the second installment in Shiloh Walker’s contemporary, adult THE McKAYS erotic, romance series focusing on the McKay siblings from the Mississippi town of McKays Treasure. This is winery owner Brannon McKay, and paramedic Hannah Parker’s story line. I recommend reading the series in order as the events in the current story line began in the previous installment and will continue in to book three. There is an ongoing premise of mystery and suspense with regard to the McKay family-someone is out to destroy the family-one member at a time.

Told from several third person points of view THE TROUBLE WITH TEMPTATION focuses on the rebuilding of a relationship between Brannon McKay and Hannah Parker. Following a devastating car accident that left Hannah in a coma and eventual amnesia, with no recollection of what happened or her past, Brannon begins to play doting boyfriend once he discovers that Hannah is pregnant with his child. What ensues are several threats against Hannah’s life by an unknown source; a series of deaths and murders all connected back to Hannah’s accident; and Hannah’s heartbreaking discovery that she and Brannon were never meant to be.

Hannah has been in love with Brannon since high school, but Brannon never saw Hannah as anything but a friend; his younger sister’s friend who grew into a woman he refused to allow into his life. One night of ‘angry’ passion finds our couple looking towards the future, and the unknown. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive.

THE TROUBLE WITH TEMPTATION has a very large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters, including one or two unknown entities and stalkers. The various third person perspectives reveal a developing mystery that affects the people of McKays Treasure and targets the McKay siblings, and in this, I once again, recommend reading the series in order or at the very least have an Excel spreadsheet handy to keep track of the characters and their connections to one another.

THE TROUBLE WITH TEMPTATION follows several intersecting plot lines and premises including murder, drugs, affairs and blackmail, that at times, diluted the story line in too many directions, although most have circled back with some sort of connection to recent events. We are witness to the slow return of Hannah’s memories-but a return that keeps Hannah at the center of an assailant’s attention. I have my thoughts about the guilty party but we have no idea if he has already been introduced or not.

Shiloh Walker pulls the reader into a story of mystery and suspense; friendship and family; revenge and betrayal. The premise is entertaining; the characters are colorful, animated and numerous; the romance is a slow climb to a happily ever after –for now.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Ruined (The Barnes Brothers #4) by Shiloh Walker-a review

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RUINED (Barnes Brothers #4) by Shiloh Walker-a review

Ruined

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 19, 2016

As one of the Barnes brothers, Sebastien has always felt blessed. Not only does he have an amazing family, but he’s become a Hollywood golden boy who has everything he’s ever wanted—with one exception. He’s had a thing for Marin since he was a kid, but when he finally summons the courage to ask her out, she turns him down. Marin is ready to settle down, she wants commitment and stability, and Sebastien is still too much of a playboy, caught up in the wild life of the spotlight.

Still reeling from the rejection, Sebastien’s luck runs out later that night when he saves a girl from an assault. The shining knight role fits him just fine, but his armor—and his perfect life—become tarnished when the near-deadly attack lands him in the hospital. Physically scarred, he gives up acting and retreats from everybody.

If anyone can pull Sebastien back from the abyss, it’s Marin. But first she has to convince him that beauty is not only skin deep.

••••••••••••

REVIEW: RUINED is the fourth installment in Shiloh Walker’s contemporary, adult BARNES BROTHERS erotic, romance series focusing on the Barnes brothers. This is actors Sebastien Barnes and Marin Lassiter’s story line. RUINED can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Sebastien and Marin) RUINED is a friends to lovers romance wherein our couple have been in love with one another for years but Marin is seven years Sebastien’s senior and ready to settle down; Sebastien has a reputation as a playboy and isn’t looking for anything but a good time. When an attack against Sebastien’s ex leaves our hero scarred both inside and out, he walks away from his career, leaving family and friends in the dust. The only person Sebastien is willing to acknowledge is the woman he has loved from afar but their last encounter before the attack was met with rejection, and Sebastien isn’t ready to face the world or the woman who broke his heart. What ensues is Sebastien’s year long struggle with guilt and remorse, and Marin’s battle with her heart – a drunken one –night stand is about to change their lives forever.

All of the previous couples play secondary and supporting roles including the Barnes parental units who are heartbroken at their youngest son’s inability to move forward and let go of the past.

The world building continues to focus on family and friendship; love and lost. The premise is dramatic and intense; the characters are emotional and passionate; the romance is fated but struggles with personal guilt, personal trauma, and misunderstanding.

Reading Order and previous reviews
Wrecked
Razed
Busted
Ruined

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Headed For Trouble (The McKays #1) by Shiloh Walker- a review

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HEADED FOR TROUBLE by Shiloh Walker-a review

Headed for Trouble

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 29, 2015

SHE’S A SMALL-TOWN GIRL WITH BIG DREAMS.

Nine years ago, Neve McKay fled her small Southern town and disapproving family to seek a career in the big city. Now she’s finally coming home – and hoping for a fresh start. But the relationship that shattered her world still haunts her. And even among her nearest and dearest, she doesn’t feel safe.

CAN THIS BAD BOY BE THE ANSWER TO HER PRAYERS?

Ian Campbell is a pure Scottish muscle – as hard and handsome as they come. But when Neve walks into his bar, his heart melts . . . and he vows to have this gorgeous and somewhat vulnerable woman in his life – for better or for worse. What is Neve’s tragic secret? And how can Neve expect Ian to protect her, when doing so could put his own life at risk? The only thing Ian knows for sure is that he will do whatever it takes to keep her out of harm’s way – and in his loving arms.

••••••

REVIEW: HEADED FOR TROUBLE is the first installment in Shiloh Walker’s contemporary, adult, romantic suspense series focusing on the McKay family from the small Mississippi town of McKay Treasure. This is youngest daughter Neve McKay, and Scotsman/bar manager Ian Campbell’s storyline.

Told from several third person perspectives HEADED FOR TROUBLE focuses on Neve McKay’s return home to McKay Treasure following ten years of separation from her family and friends. Following the death of her parents Neve became something of a wild child and with it all of the stereotypical behavior and family disappointment. By the time our heroine was ready to set out on her own, she had become more or less a stranger to her older siblings. But years away from family finds Neve seeking the love and shelter of the people she knows will protect her with their lives-Neve is on the run, and has been for a number of years-and McKay Treasure is the last place she knows where the people will ensure her safety. Enter Ian Campbell-Neve’s brother Brannon’s best friend-and the man who would steal her heart. With Neve’s past seeking revenge, Brannon and Ian don’t think it is a coincidence when the past is familiar to them as well.

Neve’s backstory is heartbreaking, painful and sad. Not only has she had to deal with her also-grieving dysfunctional family but our heroine never had a support system in place when everything began to fall apart.

Ian Campbell is a man very much involved in the McKay family business but a man whose own past has many similarities to Neve McKay’s. Ian is immediately drawn to his best friend’s youngest sister but knows that the relationship may be forbidden on so many levels. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive without the over the top erotic imagery and text.

HEADED FOR TROUBLE has a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including the McKay siblings-Moira and Brannon, as well as their housekeeper Ella Sue. We are also introduced to local police chief Gideon Marshall who has a history with Moira McKay-the woman who still calls to his heart. There is also another storyline developing involving Brannon and Hannah-a woman he has known for a number of years but Brannon doesn’t do relationships and Hannah is about to shake up his world.

There are a number of future story lines building throughout HEADED FOR TROUBLE and in this the focus on the main story was scattered as the potential to introduce several scenarios distracted from Neve and Ian’s story.

HEADED FOR TROUBLE is a suspense filled story of intrigue and romance with heartbreak and betrayal; romance and love; tragic lives and horrific pasts. Shiloh Walker looks at a dysfunctional family whose losses are many; whose past is haunting; whose future can only get better. A wonderful introductory storyline to a new series.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Hot Alphas Anthology by Lora Leigh, Laurelin McGee, Shiloh Walker & Kate Douglas-a review

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HOT ALPHAS anthology with Lora Leigh, Laurelin McGee, Shiloh Walker and Kate Douglas-a review

Hot Alphas

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 19, 2015

HOT ALPHAS is a four part anthology of contemporary, adult romance storylines. Each short story has a little romance, $ex, and a happily ever after while a couple stories have mystery, intrigue and suspense. Erin’s Kiss by Lora Leigh, and Burn For Me by Shiloh Walker are each part of an existing series by the respective authors, while misTaken by Laurelin McGee is the introduction to a new series co authored by Laurelin Paige and Kayti McGee.

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In Erin’s Kiss by Lora Leigh, ex-Marine Turk has become Erin’s sworn protector. The consistent target of her CIA-operative brother’s deadly foes, Turk is the only port Erin has to cling to in a storm. He promised her brother long ago never to touch her—but how can he resist a woman who aches to be with him as much as he burns for her?

REVIEW: 3.75 stars–ERIN’S KISS is part of the Wound Warriors Series by Lora Leigh focusing on a group of former military operatives who work for the CIN-Covert Information Network. This is ex Marine Turk Rogan and Erin Masters romantic/suspense storyline.

The novella follows Turk and Erin as both work undercover at the Broken Bar Saloon keeping an eye on the thugs, politicians and people connected to the mob. The Broken Bar is home to a number of CIN operatives and when Erin becomes the target of an unknown assailant, the CIN and Turk move into action. The secondary and supporting characters include several CIN agents, Erin’s step brother and step father, as well as the ‘regulars’ at the bar.

ERIN’S KISS is a quick erotic read about two people who have lusted after one another for a number of months. The $ex scenes are erotic and provocative. The background and world building is limited but followers of the series may be more in tune with what has happened than new readers to the series. The novella does not end with a cliff hanger but a bit of a ‘wait and see’ what is going to happen next.

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In misTaken by Laurelin McGee, Jaylene Kim is a strong independent woman whose feminist values run deep. Even though attractive men are her weakness the last thing she wants is one telling her what to do. Until she meets her mysterious new neighbor. He makes her realize that you can still be strong and relinquish control . . . in the bedroom. But as their passion consumes them both Jaylene isn’t so sure he is who he says he is.

REVIEW: 3 stars–MISTAKEN is the introductory novella to Laurelin McGee (aka Laurelin Paige/ Kayti McGee) new romance series focusing on the world of modern matchmaking. This is high school English teacher Jaylene Kim and Noah Harrison’s storyline. With her rigid feminist ideals and preconceived notions Jaylene is having difficulty adjusting to other people’s (both men and women) view of life. Enter Noah Harrison, a man with too many secrets that Jaylene is dying to uncover and a man who makes Jaylene question her feminist ways.

The $ex scenes are exploratory but Jaylene has a difficult time giving up control. Throughout the storyline our heroine’s rigid feminist views leave something to be desired both in and out of the bedroom; I question the couple’s attraction to one another as I did not feel the sexual chemistry or burning need.

As this is the introductory storyline to Laurelin McGee’s new series, I am hoping with the future installments the heroines are not so uncompromising or mired in such strict feminist beliefs. The overriding premise of feminism was too much for a romance storyline. I am all for equal rights, but I don’t like the ideals of radical feminism to be pounded into me from my romance heroines. I have a degree in sociology and took several courses in women’s studies but there are times when the idealists need to consider the target of their attacks and romance readers are not the ideal targets.

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In Burn for Me by Shiloh Walker, Tate longs to spend his nights with Ali, a woman he’s loved for years. But while Ali’s heart pines to be with Tate, her head has reservations. Ali knows that Tate has never forgiven his father for the fight he had with his mother right before she left the house—and was never heard from again. Tate’s unresolved anger is a force to be reckoned with . . . but the heat that blazes between them is undeniable. Now both Tate and Ali are left to wonder: Can love really conquer all?

REVIEW: 4 stars–BURN FOR ME is the introductory novella in Shiloh Walker’s Secrets and Shadows romantic, suspense series (Originally released April 1, 2014) focusing on the Bell family. This is car restoration expert Tate Bell, and single mother and part owner of a pizza cafe Ali Holmes storyline- a friends with benefits relationship where Ali wants something more.

The storyline follows the back and forth between Tate and Ali; Tate’s inability to let go of the past; the disappearance of his mother fifteen years earlier; and the introduction of Tate’s younger sister Chrissie, their sister Detective Jensen Bell, as well as Noah Benningfield and Trinity Ewing. While Tate struggles with issues of betrayal and hurt, Ali makes a heartbreaking decision about her future. The novella ends on a bit of a cliff hanger-looking towards a resolution of a fifteen year mystery.

Shiloh Walker does an amazing job in a short period of time with the world and character building. I was never confused or concerned about the direction of the story; the information revealed was just enough to spark my interest in the series.

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In Tangled by Kate Douglas, Nate shows up to work at Tangled Vineyards ready to do all the things he loves best—work with his hands, grow the grapes, and craft award-winning, full-bodied wines. But when something better comes along in the form of Cassie, the winemaker and former owner of the vineyard, Nate becomes completely love-drunk. Getting involved with Tangled’s number-one mixologist is a bad way to start off a new job, but with Cassie as a constant temptation, Nate doesn’t stand a chance…

REVIEW: 3.75 stars–TANGLED is a quick story of insta-love between Nate Dunagan and Cassie Phillips. Cassie’s family once owned the Tangled Vines vineyard, where Cassie and Nate now work and manage. As Cassie’s father’s increasing dementia forced the family to sell the winery, Cassie remains behind as the leading wine maker for Tangled Vines vineyard. What ensues is a building relationship between our leading couple that eventually leads to a happily ever after…but in between Cassie and Nate become the victims of someone hoping to bury the past.

TANGLED is a storyline with a little bit of romance, $ex and intrigue. As our couple struggle with the daily business of operating a vineyard, Cassie and Nate also struggle with their building attraction. The $ex scenes are intimate and romantic without the over the top erotic factor. If you like a storyline of insta-love and a promise of forever, than TANGLED is the perfect read.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Busted (The Barnes Brothers #3) by Shiloh Walker-a review

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BUSTED (Barnes Brothers #3) by Shiloh Walker-a review

Busted

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 5, 2015

Like his brothers Zach and Zane, Trey Barnes thought he had found the love of his life. But fate had other plans. A widower who’s had to raise his five-year-old son on his own, Trey has not allowed himself to be with another woman. Until he meets Ressa Bliss at—of all places—a children’s library program. The beautiful librarian is wonderful with his son, Clay, but every time Trey even considers asking her out, he is tortured by guilt.

Fate is indeed fickle. When the two meet again at a conference, this time the attraction is too powerful to resist. But is their connection and passion strong enough to survive Trey’s deep inner torment?

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: BUSTED is the third installment in Shiloh Walker’s adult, contemporary Barnes Brothers romance series focusing the …who else….the Barnes Brothers. This is author and widower Trey Barnes, and librarian Ressa Bliss’s storyline. Although BUSTED is the third book in the series, it can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.

Told from dual third person perspectives, BUSTED follows the building relationship between Ressa and Trey. It has been several years since Trey’s wife died, and in the ensuing time Trey is all about the guilt whenever he thinks about moving on with his life. As a single dad to Clayton, Trey embarks on reading time at the library with his son, where he will meet librarian Ressa Bliss. For months, Ressa and Trey will dance around one another, with neither one making any movement in a positive direction. When Ressa announces she is moving on, Trey believes he has lost all hope of asking the beautiful librarian out. A chance meeting at an author’s convention finds Ressa and Trey involved in a one-night stand wherein Ressa will walk away leaving a confused Trey in the dark.

The relationship between Ressa and Trey is one of mutual attraction but there are ghosts and demons that haunt our couple: Trey’s guilt over moving forward, and Ressa’s hidden past that could destroy any chance of a permanent relationship with Trey. Ressa’s earlier life was never easy, and to survive Ressa did some things of which she is not proud; if the truth were to become public knowledge, Trey’s life would never be the same. As our couple begin telling their stories, it will become apparent that there is a connection to the past. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive.

The colorful secondary and supporting characters include Trey’s twin brother Travis who keeps hidden the true nature of his job and work. There is a building storyline with Travis when Trey reveals he knows there is more to Travis’s life than what they have been led to believe. The youngest Barnes brother-actor Sebastian –also drops by for a cameo role. We are introduced to Ressa’s Aunt Ang-the woman who raised Ressa; Ressa’s best friend Farrah; as well as Ressa’s troubled cousin Kiara, and five year old Neeci who will become Clayton’s best friend.

BUSTED is an imaginative and inspiring storyline. Although no one can ever put a timeline on grief or guilt, there comes a time when everyone must step out of their comfort zone and give life a second try and in this, Trey is willing to give love a another chance. The characters are animated and engaging; the premise interesting with a bit of a twist. There are moments of heartbreak and sorrow; love and loss; letting go and moving on. Shiloh Walker’s BARNES BROTHERS series is a welcome addition to any romance lover’s collection.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

Series Spotlight pink

WreckedWRECKED
The Barnes Brothers #2
by Shiloh Walker
Release Date: April 2, 2013
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance

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Click HERE for Sandy’s review of WRECKED

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release April 2, 2013

In the nineties, Abigale Applegate and Zach Barnes were the most beloved sitcom child stars in the world. Then they grew up and left Hollywood behind…

Whatever happened to Abigale Applegate?

She’s been wondering the same thing.

With her Hollywood dreams long gone, Abigale now has a nice, neat, uncomplicated life—until the day her perfect fiancé needs to talk. Dumped, a little more than shattered, and totally confused, Abigale turns to Zach, her best friend since forever, to help her pick up the pieces. He does it with a gift—a copy of Wreck This Journal. She can vent her frustrations, and sketch out a new plan. Zach just hopes he’s part of it. Because he’s been in love with Abigale his entire life.

When the journal falls into Zach’s hands, he discovers Abigale wants a new man. And fast. Nothing more than a hot distraction. Zach has a strategy, too. He’s going to be that man. It’s his last chance. Abigale might be out to shake up her life, but Zach’s out to reinvent it. Now, all he has to do is convince Abigale that life can go as planned

 

RazedRazed
Barnes Brothers #2
by Shiloh Walker
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance
Release Date: December 2, 2014

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Click HERE for Sandy’s review of RAZED

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 2, 2014

Tattoo artist Keelie Jessup can handle that someone else has claimed the man of her dreams. She’s just not pleased with her remaining options…

Keelie doesn’t believe in the “perfect man.” But the men who are worth the trouble are usually taken—like her business partner Zach Barnes. After a string of bad luck and the lost chance with Zach, Keelie decides that maybe flying solo—and living with suppressed desires—is the key to happiness.

As a photographer, Zane Barnes has an eye for the human form, and his eyes can’t get enough of Keelie’s curves. Unfortunately, Keelie is like most women—always fawning over his little brother, Zach. Zane is about ready to give up, but then a few stolen moments at his brother’s wedding have him thinking maybe there’s a chance there after all. Now he just has to prove that the perfect man does exist…for her.

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Razed (Barnes Brothers #2) by Shiloh Walker-Review and Giveaway

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Razed (Barnes Brothers #2) by Shiloh Walker-Review and Giveaway

Razed Banner

Razed
Barnes Brothers #2
by Shiloh Walker
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance
Release Date: December 2, 2014

Razed

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 2, 2014

Tattoo artist Keelie Jessup can handle that someone else has claimed the man of her dreams. She’s just not pleased with her remaining options…

Keelie doesn’t believe in the “perfect man.” But the men who are worth the trouble are usually taken—like her business partner Zach Barnes. After a string of bad luck and the lost chance with Zach, Keelie decides that maybe flying solo—and living with suppressed desires—is the key to happiness.

As a photographer, Zane Barnes has an eye for the human form, and his eyes can’t get enough of Keelie’s curves. Unfortunately, Keelie is like most women—always fawning over his little brother, Zach. Zane is about ready to give up, but then a few stolen moments at his brother’s wedding have him thinking maybe there’s a chance there after all. Now he just has to prove that the perfect man does exist…for her.

•••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: RAZED is the second installment in Shiloh Walker’s adult, contemporary Barnes Brothers series focusing on –what else-the Barnes brothers. This is photographer Zane Barnes and tattoo artist Keelie Jessup’s storyline.

Told from third person point of view, RAZED takes the reader back to Zach Barnes’s tattoo studio Steel Ink. At Zach’s wedding to the love of his life Abby, tattoo artist Keelie Jessup finds herself in the arms of Zach’s brother Zane-the wedding photographer and the man who will become an integral part of Keelie’s life. For three years Zane has crushed on Keelie but still three months after the wedding Keelie continues to say no to Zane’s attempts at dinner. It is not until a disastrous blind date for Keelie does the possibility of a future with Zane begin to take on a more positive outlook.

The relationship between Keelie and Zane is slow to develop as Keelie holds herself back. There are secrets from Keelie’s past that come back to the present and it is the memories of what has happened that keep Keelie hidden away from public eyes; and not to be out done, Zane’s past is buried amongst the photographs he keeps hidden from the people that he loves. The sex scenes are intimate, seductive and hot.

The colorful, realistic and emotional secondary characters include most of the previous storyline players including Zach and Abby from book 1 WRECKED, and the gang at Steel Ink. Zach’s love for both his brother and Keelie manifests into some awkward moments that are difficult to understand – but then again, the relationship between brothers is often fraught with jealousy and hurt. We are introduced to Zach and Zane’s brothers-Trey, Travis and Sebastian-each will have their story told in a future novel. Trey’s story is next- a single father and widower who is unable to let go of the past.

RAZED is a passionate story about family, betrayal, heartbreak and moving on. While Zane focuses on going forward, Keelie keeps to the shadows fearing recognition and being found. Shiloh’s characters will captivate your imagination and pull you in along their journeys of romance and love.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

About The Author beige

Shiloh WalkerFollow: Website / Goodreads / Twitter / Facebook/

Shiloh Walker has been writing since she was a kid. She fell in love with vampires with the book Bunnicula and has worked her way up to the more…ah…serious vampire stories. She loves reading and writing anything paranormal, anything fantasy, and nearly every kind of romance. Once upon a time she worked as a nurse, but now she writes full time and lives with her family in the Midwest.

Giveaway beige

The Reading Cafe and Shiloh’s publisher are offering a paper copy of RAZED 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. Please LIKE us on FACEBOOK and click GET NOTIFICATIONS

4. Please LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

5. Please LIKE us on GOODREADS  for an additional entry.

6. Please LIKE  Shiloh Walker on FACEBOOK.

7. Giveaway is open to USA only

8. Giveaway runs from December 4 to 8, 2014

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