Tag Archives: Vickie K

Misadventures with a Firefighter by Julie Morgan-Review tour

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Misadventures with a Firefighter by Julie Morgan-Review tour

 

 

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Apple /

?Goodreads: bit.ly/GR_Firefighter
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 14, 2020

Cara Murphy is a New York City kindergarten teacher with a bright future and tenure on the horizon, and she won’t let anything—any man—distract her. She’s had her heart broken before, and she won’t make that mistake twice. She’s got her career to focus on, and being single has many, many advantages.

Noah Hughes is a firefighter with a charred heart who heats up every room he enters, but he lives solely for the happiness of his five-year-old son. When he crosses paths with Cara at a club, sparks fly, and they share a hot night of passion. But that flame is quickly doused during a surprise second encounter.

Continuing to see each other would truly be playing with fire, but Cara and Noah can’t stop. Still, Cara’s career is in jeopardy, and Noah’s heart is locked in guilt. Is there really a chance they could build a love that forever burns bright?

•••••••

REVIEW:Misadventures with a Firefighter begins with Cara Murphy getting ready to go out with her friends for one last celebration before school starts. She is a kindergarten teacher and loves her job and has her future mapped out. Once she and her friends hit one of their favorite bars, it doesn’t take Cara long to spot a good looking man, Noah Hughes, who piques her interest. When she approaches him, it doesn’t take long for sparks to fly. It also doesn’t take long for either of them to decide to leave the bar for a little one on one time. After a steamy night together, they both decide that maybe they will see each other again. Cara is all about hookups and is not interested in being tied down to one man. But, what can it hurt to see him again?

When school finally starts, Cara is in her room meeting her new class and their parents. As she is meeting one five year old, she is stunned to see his father is none other than Noah. Cara knows that if she continues seeing Noah that it could jeopardize her job at school. They are both insanely attracted to each other. Noah is a widowed single father who dotes on his son, but he can’t deny their chemistry. Even though Cara doesn’t really do relationships, she can’t deny their chemistry either.

Cara and Noah decide to give a relationship a shot, only to have it all backfire big time for her. She shuts Noah out as she tries to pull her perfectly constructed life back together. However, Noah has other plans. When Cara finds out that someone she thought was a good friend is the one who torpedoed her career, she is stunned. When all the cards are put on the table, they both have to decide what is worth fighting for.

Misadventures with a Firefighter is great addition to the Misadventures series. The chemistry between Cara and Noah is palpable. The few secondary characters we’re introduced to are well written. The story is fast paced and leaves you wanting more. Noah’s back story is one of heartache which will endear him to the reader and Cara’s independence is a pleasant change. She’s a strong woman who stands up for herself and didn’t need rescuing. If you’re a fan of the genre, you’ll certainly enjoy this installment. Well done, Julie Morgan!

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Vickie K

 

Follow: Facebook/Twitter/Website/Amazon Author page

USA TODAY and Award-winning Bestselling Author, Julie Morgan, holds a degree in Computer Science and loves science fiction shows and movies. Encouraged by her family, she began writing. Originally from Texas, Julie now resides in Central Florida with her husband and daughter where she is an advocate for Special Needs children and can be found playing games with her daughter when she isn’t lost in another world. For more information please visit her at www.juliemorganbooks.com

 

 

 

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Rogue’s Holiday (Agents of the Crown #5) by Regan Walker-a review

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Rogue’s Holiday (Agents of the Crown #5) by Regan Walker-a review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au / B&N/

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 7, 2019

Even a spy needs a holiday…

Robert Powell’s work as a spy saves the Cabinet ministers from a gruesome death and wins him accolades from George IV. As a reward, the king grants him a baronetcy and a much-deserved holiday at the Royal Pavilion in Brighton where he thinks to indulge in brandy, cards, good horseflesh and women.

But when Muriel, Dowager Countess of Claremont, learns of Sir Robert’s intended destination, she begs a favor…to watch over an “errant child” who is the grandniece of her good friend living in the resort town. Little does Robbie know that Miss Chastity Reynolds is no child but a beautiful hoyden who is seemingly immune to his charms.

Chastity lives in the shadow of her mother and sisters, dark-haired beauties men admire. Her first Season was a failure but, as she will soon come into a family legacy, she has no need to wed. When she first encounters Sir Robert, she dubs him The Rogue, certain he indulges in a profligate lifestyle she wants no part in.

In Brighton, Robbie discovers he is being followed by friends of the conspirators who had planned to murder the Cabinet. Worse, they know the location of Chastity’s residence.

••••••

REVIEW:Rogue’s Holiday begins with Robbie Powell spying on behalf of the Crown. Once his mission is complete and the traitorous men are apprehended, a more than thankful King George IV bestows on him the title of baronet making him Sir Robert Powell. The King also offers up his Royal Pavilion in Brighton so that he may vacation for the summer. Robbie gladly accepts and invites his uncle, Jack Donet to accompany him. Before Robbie leaves, Muriel, the Dowager Countess of Claremont, asks a favor of him. Her dear friend’s grandniece, who is also a bit of a hoyden, will be in Brighton as well and needs watching over.

Chastity Reynolds feels like she doesn’t feel like she fits in with her family, except for her shoe designing father. She, too, likes to design shoes and is close to her father. Her sister’s wedding planning is the last thing she wants to deal with. Her mother is aware of Chastity’s nature, and suggests that she and her best friend, Rose, go to Brighton to stay with her Aunt Agatha in Brighton. Chastity jumps at the chance. On their trip to Brighton, Chastity goes downstairs at a hotel they’re staying at, only to run (literally) into a good-looking man who doesn’t apologize for the collision. Instead, he places a kiss upon her lips that leaves her reeling. She is not only offended, but also intrigued as the rogue saunters away.

Once Robbie arrives in Brighton, he and Jack meet Chastity and Rose. To say they are all a bit taken with each other would be true, but Chastity is still offended by Robbie’s roguish behavior. However, Robbie makes it his mission to win Chastity over. Unfortunately, Robbie senses that he’s being followed and when he receives a threatening letter from an anonymous source, he and Jack have to step up in order to keep not only themselves safe, but Chastity as well.

Rogue’s Holiday is a wonderfully written addition to the Agents of the Crown series. Chastity has an independent streak, but that doesn’t keep her from wanting to do the right thing. Robbie has intrigued me since the first time I read about him. His family is one of my favorites in all of the fiction I’ve ever read. As always, Regan Walker’s effortless weaving of historical facts into her stories leaves me in awe. The world that she creates pulls you in from the very beginning and always leaves you wanting more. The secondary characters are always well written and pertinent to the story. If you’re a fan of Regency Romance with great character and world building, you’ll never go wrong with one of Regan’s stories. Well done, Regan Walker!! Very, very well done!

Reading Order and Previous reviews
To Tame The Wind
Against the Wind
Wind Raven
A Secret Scottish Christmas

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Vickie K

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Misadventures with a Twin by Elizabeth Hayley-Review Tour

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Misadventures with a Twin by Elizabeth Hayley-Review Tour

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

Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2Gebtcb

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 12, 2019

Zara Pierce has had a crush on Corey Jensen for years, but she’s never acted on it. When she sees him at their high school reunion, she decides to throw caution to the wind and finally make a move. The steamy encounter that follows makes one thing perfectly clear: she wants more of Corey.

Colton Jensen may have an identical twin, but he’s his own man. A self-proclaimed bachelor for life, Colt is set in what he wants and knows exactly who he is. Too bad Zara doesn’t. By the time Colton realizes his night with Zara was a case of mistaken identity, it’s too late to take back what’s happened between them. When a series of events drives him closer to her and stirs unexpected feelings, he must finally reveal the truth.

Can Colton and Zara find happiness amid a forest of lies? Or were they lost from the start?

*****
Misadventures is a romantic series of spicy standalone novels, each written or co-written by some of the best names in romance. The stories are scandalous, refreshing, and, of course, incredibly sexy. They’re the perfect bedside read, a ‘quick blush’ for the reader who loves a page-turning romance.

•••••••••

REVIEW: Misadventures with a Twin begins with Colton and Corey Jensen attending their 10th high school reunion. Once there, Colton wanders over to the bar for a drink. He notices a beautiful woman sitting there, and she starts up a conversation. He finally admits that he doesn’t remember her and she jogs his memory and also tells him that she would know him from his twin brother anywhere. Zara begins to come on strong and Colton finds himself in Zara’s hotel room quickly thereafter. Once things start heating up, the unthinkable happens. Zara calls out his name…only his name is not Corey.

Colton removes himself from her room as soon as he can and can’t believe that what happened did indeed happen. However, when Zara contacts him again, he decides he’s going to tell her the truth. When he arrives, he finds that she doesn’t want to talk, so who is he to deny her. As they start to see each other more and more, he finds out that his dad is selling their family restaurant to Zara, which prompts his brother to tell him not to tell Zara who he really is. He’s afraid it may jeopardize the sale, but Colton finds himself torn. He’s starting to have real feelings for Zara and knows things aren’t going to end well when he finally fesses up.

Misadventures with a Twin is a fun and fast read. The characters are engaging and well developed. Even though the story is pretty far-fetched, it really does draw you in at the very beginning. Colton and Zara’s chemistry leaps off the page from their very first encounter until their last. Colton was a “love ‘em and leave ‘em” kind of guy in school, but the reasons revealed at the end will leave you with tears in your eyes and a lump in your throat. I really did love the two of them together, and the secondary characters were funny and engaging as well. If you’re a romance fan and like a fast read with scorching chemistry and a very touching ending, you’ll not go wrong with this one. Well done, Elizabeth Hayley! Very well done!

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Vickie

 

Elizabeth Hayley is actually “Elizabeth” and “Hayley,” two friends who love reading romance novels to obsessive levels. This mutual love prompted them to put their English degrees to good use by penning their own. They learned a ton about each other through the process, like how they clearly share a brain and have a persistent need to text each other constantly. They live with their husbands and kids in a Philadelphia suburb. Thankfully, their children are still too young to read.

Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabethhayleyauthor/

Website: http://www.authorelizabethhayley.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorelizabethhayley/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/EHayleyAuthor

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Don’t Breathe a Word by Christie Craig-Review and Giveaway

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Don’t Breathe a Word (Texas Justice #2)  by Christie Craig-Review and Giveaway

DON’T BREATHE A WORD
Texas Justice #2
by Christie Craig
Release Date : November 5, 2019
Genre: adult, contemporary, romantic, suspense

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 5, 2091

Police detective Juan Acosta doesn’t only carry scars on the outside. He’s filled with guilt and anger ever since his undercover job led to the murder of those he loved the most. Now he’s living for one thing: revenge. That is, until Juan meets his beautiful new neighbor.

Vicki Holloway prides herself on being capable and independent, but her life is turned upside down when her sister Sara is killed by an abusive ex. Fearing for the safety of her niece, Vicki and the little girl go into hiding…resurfacing in Texas with new identities.

Juan finds his once-frozen heart thawing around Vicki, but he knows she’s hiding something. Juan needs answers, but Vicki isn’t talking. She has to keep her secrets if she wants to keep Bell safe, which means resisting her growing feelings for the sexy, scarred man next door. But when Juan’s quest for justice brings danger to her door, divulging the truth might be the only thing that keeps her alive.

••••••••

REVIEW: Don’t Breathe a Word begins with Detective Juan Acosta losing everything in the blink of an eye. One moment, he and his sweet pregnant wife are sharing a poignant moment together and the next moment, his life changed forever. Scarred, inside and out, from the explosion that killed his burgeoning family, Juan works the cold cases day in and day out. He is only merely existing and hanging on by his need for revenge.

One night, he sees an intruder trying to break into his new neighbor’s back door and goes to investigate. When the intruder throws a bbq grill at him, his vision is compromised as another attacker engages him. As he wrestles with the newest threat, he is stunned to see that not only is it a woman, but it is his neighbor who has mistaken him for the intruder who is long gone now. Once all of the confusion is sorted out, he knows one thing for sure about his new neighbor: “Nicki” is scared…………

Vicki, aka Nicki, is scared that the one she ran from, along with her niece, have found them once again. She swore to keep her safe, and if she has to run again, she’ll do it. However, once she and her niece get to know Juan, it doesn’t take either of them long to surmise that not only is he a good guy, but he will do whatever he needs to to keep them safe.

Don’t Breathe a Word is a nicely written story with great characters. Vicki is strong and independent, but she’s also wary and tired. She doesn’t trust easily, which causes a few misunderstandings along the way. You fall in love with Juan immediately. His grief is palpable, but so are his growing feelings for Vicki and her niece. The secondary characters are well written and engaging. The world Craig has built is one of family and second chances and leaves you wanting more and holding your breath until the very end. This is the first I’ve ready by this author but look so forward to reading more. Well done, Christie Craig! Very well done!

Copy supplied by the publisher

Reviewed by Vickie K

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Photojournalist, Author and Speaker

Christie Craig, AKA C.C. Hunter, a New York Times Bestseller, is an Alabama native, a multi-published writer, motivational speaker, and writing teacher. She currently hangs her hat in Texas and when she’s not writing her romantic suspense novels or her humorous romantic suspense novels, she’s working on her heart tugging young adult novels under the pen name C.C. Hunter.

A lover of good wine, good books and long walks with her dog, Lady, she considers herself extremely lucky to make a living doing what she loves. Learn more at www.CCHunterBooks.com or www.christie-craig.com.

Click here to see a video of Christie on the Houston Chronicle.com about her overcoming the difficulties of being dyslexic.

 

Christie’s publisher FOREVER ROMANCE is offering a paper copy of DON’T CLOSE YOUR EYES and a paper copy of DON’T BREATHE A WORD to TWO (2) lucky commenters 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.

NOTE: If you are having difficulty commenting after logging onto the site, please refresh the page (at the top of your computer).

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

3. Please follow Christie Craig on Facebook.

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

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9. Giveaway is open to USA and CANADA only

10. Giveaway runs from November 11-15,2019

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Once Upon A Christmas Past Anthology with Regan Walker et al -a review

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Once Upon A Christmas Past Anthology with Regan Walker, Paula Quinn, Catherine Kean & Brenda Jernigan -a review

ebook ONLY 99¢ Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo /

Christmas in Scotland or Christmas in England – it is the best time of the year.

NY Times & USA Today & Bestselling Authors present Once Upon a Christmas Past – 4 full books of Christmas and Love

A Secret Scottish Christmas by Regan Walker

Spies, Scots, and Shipmasters celebrate a very secret Christmas in Scotland as identical twins, Robbie and Nash Powell, spies for the Crown, compete for the love of the daughter of an Aberdeen shipbuilder.

A Highlander for Christmas by Paula Quinn

As the bard of the MacGregor clan, Finlay Grant is a natural-born charmer. He can easily win the heart of any lass . . . but somehow, the right words to express his love for stunning Leslie Harrison have eluded him. Yet as Christmastide approaches, Finn knows he must find a way to propose to the raven-haired beauty who has stolen his heart.

A Knight’s Redemption by Catherine Kean

Six Christmases ago, after refusing his kiss, Lady Mary Westbrook was locked in the dungeon by Lord Holden Kendall, a squire at Branton Keep. When an attempted child abduction days before Christmas brings Holden back to the castle, Mary must confront again what happened between them.

Holden is a grown warrior now, and he resolves to not only make matters right with Mary but finally win her kiss. Yet, as peril ensues, Mary must risk far more than a chance at true love.

Christmas in Camelot by Brenda Jernigan

Sir Nicholas the Dragon’s orders are clear. He is to fend off the enemy besieging Noelle’s castle and bring the lady safely back to Camelot for her wedding day to Sir Gavin. But spending time with the proud beauty awakens an irresistible hunger in Nicholas. Now, as desire does battle with duty, Nicholas has only two choices — to surrender the woman he loves to another man or fight to the end to make her his own.

••••••••••

REVIEWS:

NOTE: Vickie’s review covers A SECRET SCOTTISH CHRISTMAS by Regan Walker, and A KNIGHT’S REDEMPTION by Catherine Kean.

A SECRET SCOTTISH CHRISTMAS by Regan Walker

A Secret Scottish Christmas begins with a group of people traveling from England to Scotland to celebrate Christmastide, albeit a secret celebration, with friends. Once the group arrives in Scotland, it doesn’t take long for the Powell twins, Nash and Robbie, to notice not only Aileen’s beauty, but also her fiery spirit.

As the story progresses, the twins put their secret plan into motion, in hopes of making their mission a successful one. However, as the twins get to know Ailie, it becomes apparent that one is more enamored than the other when said twin starts questioning their mission altogether.

A Secret Scottish Christmas is a great addition to the Agents of the Crown series. Ailie is a wonderfully written character. She is intelligent and feisty, but also has a loving heart for those she holds dear. The Powell twins were wonderfully written as well. I love the fact that they love each other as you would expect, but what drew me in was their sense of independence. Regan Walker did a phenomenal job of making each one of them their own person with their own identities. I also loved that Ailie picked up on their nuances that were written so brilliantly. Walker has also, once again, woven actual historical events into her story seamlessly and built a world that you can vividly see in your mind. Whether it is the sound of a dog barking, feeling the wind in your face as you sail away or seeing a landscape covered in new snow, you will find yourself noticing all of the details she meticulously sets for us to truly feel as if we are a part of.

Reading Regan Walker’s books is, at least for me, like watching a movie. You are swept into her world from the very beginning and you truly do hate for it to end. Added to all of this the fact that we get to see so many couples from previous books throughout the entire story makes it one of my favorites of everything she has written. If you’re a fan of historical romance, you will most definitely love A Secret Scottish Christmas. There is a beautifully developed romance, political intrigue and such well developed characters that you’ll swear this is your favorite as well….until the next one. Well done, Regan Walker! Very, very well done!

__________

A Knight’s Redemption by Catherine Kean

A Knight’s Redemption begins at Branton Keep, where Lord de Lanceau and his wife have their annual Christmas celebration. Lord de Lanceau also announces whom this year’s Lord of Misrule will be. It’s an annual ritual that all look forward to, because whomever is chosen enjoys the privileges of being Lord until midnight. As the squires talk about whom they think will be chosen this year, Holden Kendall can’t help but notice the comely Lady Mary Westbrook, who is in attendance with her father. As Holden eyes Mary, she can’t help but be drawn to him as well. However, her father has other plans.

As the anticipation builds, Lord de Lanceau rises and announces this year’s Lord of Misrule is none other than Holden Kendall. As Holden ‘assumes’ the dais, he has one thing on his mind: he wants to kiss Mary. When he delivers his directive, she steadfastly refuses. Holden is shocked, and embarrassed, and tells her that if she refuses, she will be taken to the dungeon. To his even further shock, she still refuses and he has no other option than to see her taken to the dungeon. In the middle of all of this, he and the others are called out to battle a fire in town.

When he returns, he realizes that he has forgotten that Mary was still in the dungeon. He goes to free her and to apologize, but to say she’s livid would be an understatement. THIS is not how Holden had thought his quest for a simple kiss would turn out……………

Six years later, Mary is back at Branton Keep for the holidays. Thankfully, Holden no longer resides at the Keep. As she and Claire decide to go to town, they hear a baby crying and go to investigate. They see that two men are fighting and Mary reaches down to rescue the crying baby. She and Claire try to sneak away, only to be caught by one of the men, who demands the baby back. Mary thinks the man looks familiar, but is thankful when he loses consciousness.

Back at the Keep, Holden comes to and is questioned by those in authority there. When he explains that the baby is his nephew and someone was trying to kidnap the baby, they are wary, but agree to let them stay until Lord de Lanceau arrives and can vouch for who he says he is. However, once Mary goes to where Holden is being held, neither of them know the danger they will face, nor how much their running into each other after all of this time will change their lives forever.

A Knight’s Redemption is a wonderful written tale that draws you in from the very beginning. Even though it is a novella, the characters are masterfully written. Mary has struggled with her self-image due to her verbally abusive father and deems herself as not worthy of a male’s attention for most of her life. Her friend, Claire, does her best to dissuade her from believing so, but it is Holden who finally convinces her that she is worthy of so much more than just attention. The secondary characters in this book all have had their own books in the past, and even though I don’t feel like I missed anything due to not having read those, I do feel that the back stories would have enriched the story for me. With that said, I thoroughly enjoyed Holden and Mary’s tale so much, that I will go back and read the others’ stories. If you’re a fan of this genre, you’ll be a fan of this story for sure. Well done, Catherine Kean! Very well done!

Copy suppled for review

Reviewed by Vickie K

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Getting Played (Getting Some #2) by Emma Chase-Review& Excerpt Tour

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Getting Played (Getting Some #2) by Emma Chase-Review & Excerpt  Tour

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 8, 2019

Dean Walker is all about keeping life simple. He’s effortlessly talented and intelligent—spending his summers playing drums in the local band and the rest of the year teaching high school in the same Jersey town where he grew up. He likes his love life simple too, enjoying the commitment-free hook-ups his good looks and sexy charm have always made oh so easy.

Then he meets Lainey Burrows. And his simple, easy life gets turned upside down.

One wild one-night stand was all it was ever supposed to be, so Lainey is shocked when she discovers that her sizzling summer fling is also her son’s new math teacher. But that’s nothing compared to the most unexpected twist of all—their hot hook-up left Lainey knocked up, and now they’re about to become parents. Together.

What ensues is an addictive, insatiable, sweet and tender romance that won’t be simple, but it will be more than worth the fight.

••••••••

REVIEW:Getting Played begins with Lainey Burrows out one night with her sister and brother-in-law at a bar having drinks and listening to some music. It doesn’t take Lainey, or anyone else, long to notice the hot drummer who keeps staring her way. Once the set is over, said drummer makes his way over to where Lainey is sitting and they strike up a conversation. When it starts to get late, Lainey’s family members leave the bar and encourage her to have a good time.

After Lainey and Dean, the hot drummer, have a few more drinks, they decide to head back to where he is staying while the band had been playing in the area. Lainey is a little hesitant at first, but then decides that a one-night stand might do her some good. She’ll have some fun and head back home to her life as a lifestyle vlogger and single mom and move herself and her son to the house she will be decorating and vlogging about in a new town.

What neither Lainey, nor Dean, plan on is the off the charts attraction they feel for each other. When their passionate night is over, Lainey tries to sneak out, but Dean rouses and they tell each other goodbye. Once Dean wakes later, he is so mad at himself for not getting her number, or hell, even her last name. Little do either of them know how life changing that one will be for both of them…….

Getting Played is a wonderfully written story. The characters are masterfully written. Lainey has made a life for herself and her son and has a wonderful outlook on life. She makes friends easily and is a help to anyone and everyone who needs it. Dean is an easygoing guy, smart and good looking. His circle of friends in his hometown are amazing. He does have a bit of a womanizing past, but his Grams knows that he just hasn’t met the right one. He is a teacher at the local high school and an assistant football coach. The secondary characters are well written and I can’t wait to read more about them. This is the first I’ve read by Emma Chase, but will not be the last. You are pulled into the story from the very first word. If you like contemporary romance with palpable chemistry and a scorching romance, you’ll not go wrong with this one. Well done, Emma Chase!! Very, very well done!

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Vickie

NOTE: The excerpt is intended for mature readers due to strong language and content

 

 

I find Lainey in the living room—standing on a ladder, with those long, toned legs peeking out from itty bitty cotton black shorts and a power drill in her hand, while Bruce Springsteen sings “I’m Goin’ Down” from a speaker in the corner.
And, dear God—the things I could do to her on that ladder.
Wonderful, filthy things that instantly make my heart pound and my cock throb. She’s the perfect height for me to just walk over there and put my mouth between her legs. I picture it, see it in my mind—the way she’d grip my hair and pant my name, arch her back and writhe against my face . . .
But then I catch sight of the small bump of her stomach, and reality smacks me in the head. I think about the baby—and how making Lainey lose her mind three feet off the ground wouldn’t be the safest option. My protective instinct overrides the desire to get freaky on the ladder.
“Hey, Dean.” She sets the drill on the ledge and picks up a beeping light green rectangle, running it along the wall.
“What are you doing up there?” I ask.
I don’t have a decorative bone in my body, but the room looks good—with light gray walls and navy corduroy covered couches, reclaimed wood tables and a dozen different-sized candles filling the white-washed brick fireplace. It’s clean and simple but warm, the kind of place you’d look forward to coming back to every day.
“I’m going to hang up those boards.” Lainey gestures to three square planks, with ornamental arrows burned black into the wood. “I just want to make sure this stud-finder works.”
“If you’re looking for a stud,” I wink, “I’m standing right in front of you.”
“Ha-ha. I’ll keep that in mind.”
She turns back to the wall, reaching up over her head and stretching onto her tippy toes on the narrow step. I move under the ladder to catch her if she goes ass over end, and a stab of terror slices through me at the thought that Lainey would still be doing this if I wasn’t here. Alone. Without Jason even in the room in case something went terribly wrong.
What the hell is up with that?
“I read that you’re not supposed to reach above your head when you’re pregnant.”
“That’s just an old wives’ tale.”
I wrap my hands around her hips, holding her steady.
“Maybe the old wives knew what they were talking about. Come on, come down.”
Slowly, Lainey lowers her arms and turns in my hands. I lift her off the ladder by her hips, tilting my head back and holding her above me for a moment, before sliding her slowly down. And the feel of her softness rubbing against me, the friction—it’s fantastic.
When her feet are on the ground, I dip my head and our faces are just millimeters apart. Close enough to count the sprinkle of cute, light freckles that dust the bridge of her nose.
“That’s better,” I say softly, taking the stud-finder out of her hands. “I’ll do it.”
“Okay.” Lainey’s tongue peeks out, wetting her bottom lip. “Thanks.”
Like I said . . . fucking killing me.


 

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Emma Chase writes contemporary romance filled with heat, humor and heart. Her stories are known for their clever banter, sexy, swoon-worthy moments, and hilariously authentic male POV’s. Emma’s novels have been translated in over twenty languages around the world.

Emma lives in New Jersey with her amazing husband, two awesome children, and two adorable but badly behaved dogs. She has a long-standing love/hate relationship with caffeine.

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Misadventures in Blue by Sierra Simone-Review Tour

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Misadventures in Blue by Sierra Simone-Review Tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Apple / Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 24, 2019

Senior Detective Cat Day has one hard and fast rule about dating: no cops. They live hard and die young—a truth she’s faced every day since her fiancé’s tragic death several years ago. But when rookie Jace Sutton shows up to work the same burglary investigation, she feels desire she hasn’t felt in years.
Jace knows what he wants the minute Detective Day strolls onto his crime scene in heels and a pencil skirt tailored by God himself. He wants to thaw the legendary Ice Queen, and it only takes one hot, dirty night for Jace to realize he wants more. Much, much more.
But more is the last thing Cat wants from any cop—especially a playboy rookie like Jace. As the burglary investigation heats up and he repeatedly puts himself in danger, Cat must ask herself if Jace will be as reckless with her heart as he is with his life.

*****
Misadventures is a romantic series of spicy standalone novels, each written or co-written by some of the best names in romance. The stories are scandalous, refreshing, and, of course, incredibly sexy. They’re the perfect bedside read, a ‘quick blush’ for the reader who loves a page-turning romance.

•••••••••

REVIEW: Misadventures in Blue begins with rookie Jace Sutton making the scene of a burglary. Once he assesses the scene, he remembers that a senior detective, Cat Day, had put out an email about some burglaries that had the same m.o. He notifies his superior, who in turn notifies Cat. Jace has heard about Cat and her nickname, the ice queen, but when he sees her all he can think about is how incredibly beautiful she is.

When Cat Day arrives at the scene of yet another burglary, she can’t help but notice Jace Sutton. The instant attraction leaves her unnerved. She knows of her nickname, one that she has for good reason. Since she lost her fiancé, who happened to be a fellow cop, years ago, she vowed then to never be involved with another law enforcement officer. Yet her and Jace’s attraction to each other is palpable, and she does something she never thought she would ever do: invite him to her house. Little did either of them know how much one down and dirty night would change both of their lives.

Misadventures in Blue is a fast paced read. Both characters are nicely written and their chemistry is off the charts, even though Cat is a bit older than Jace. Cat continues to try and push Jace away and almost succeeds. Jace doesn’t care about the age difference and falls hard for Cat. He knows that she is scared about being involved with another cop, and does everything in his power to make her see past all of that. He also wants her to want him for more than just the down and dirty sex. For me, personally, the relationship was purely sexual. But, this is a novella, so there wasn’t a lot of character development. However, it was an enjoyable read. If you’re a fan of down and dirty and immediate attraction, you’ll not go wrong with this one.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Vickie K

Connect with Sierra: Website /Goodreads /Tumblr /Instagram /Facebook /

Sierra is a voracious reader of all things including the smuttiest smut, young adult, piles of non-fiction for research, and everything Bill Bryson (especially on audio).

She loves writing the dirtiest things that she can think of, King Arthur, sparkling water, Tarot, coffee, leggings, and learning new words daily.

Her previous jobs have included firing ceramics, teaching living history lessons in one-room school house in full, 1908-approved school marm attire, and working as a librarian for several years—not in that order

She lives in the Kansas City area with her hot cop husband, two children, and two giant dogs. (And two cats, but they’re so naughty we don’t talk about them.)

The social media she cares about the most are Spotify and Instagram. Following her in those places is a true love language, indeed.

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Flame (Men of Inked:Heatwave #1) by Chelle Bliss-Review Tour

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Flame (Men of Inked: Heatwave #1) by Chelle Bliss-Review tour

Flame
(Men of Inked: Heatwave #1)
by Chelle Bliss
Release Date: September 17, 2019
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / KOBO  /Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 17, 2019

Could you love a man surrounded by danger?
Gigi Gallo’s childhood was filled with the roar of a motorcycle and the hum of a tattoo gun. Fresh out of college, she’s about to start working at her family’s tattoo studio — Inked. But when she shows up the first day, she never expects to run into someone tall, dark, and totally sexy from her not-so-innocent past.

Pike Moore is a bossy biker with a cocky attitude and an even bigger ego. He came to Inked to start over. New town. New job. New roots. None of that included coming face-to-face with the hot chick who spent a week in his bed before she vanished without a trace.

But when Pike’s dark family history catches up with him, can he stop Gigi from being caught in the crossfire?

Flame is book one in the Men of Inked: Heatwave series by USA Today bestselling author Chelle Bliss. The Men of Inked: Heatwave series features steamy romance, hot heroes, and strong women.

**City & Suzy’s Daughter**

••••••••

Vickie’s REVIEW: Flame begins with Gigi Gallo and some friends on spring break in Daytona, even though she knew she would be in big trouble with her family if they found out. As Gigi and her friends are sitting at a bar, there is a very handsome stranger who keeps looking across the bar at her. One of her friends keeps giving her a heard time about her being too scared to approach him. After a little liquid courage, Gigi approaches the guy and they head back to his hotel.

Pike Moore was in Daytona to catch up with some old friends who were attending Bikers’ Week. Once he and the pretty girl from the bar make it to his hotel room, it doesn’t take him long to see that she’s had a bit too much liquid courage, especially once she passes out. Being the good guy that he is, he sleeps on the couch and lets her sleep it off. When Gigi wakes the next morning, she really can’t remember much. When Pike assures her that nothing happened, they head out to have a little breakfast. They decide that the attraction they feel for each other should be explored, which leads to a few wild days together. However, when Gigi heads out for ‘coffee’ one morning, she never looks back, which leaves Pike wondering just what in the hell happened.

Flashing forward a year or so and Gigi is super excited to have finished college and finally being able to work in the family’s tattoo shop. When she goes in for her first day of work, to say she’s stunned to see none other than Pike Moore standing there, would be the understatement of the century. Unbeknownst to her, Pike was a tattoo artist who had been wanting to work for her family’s shop for years, and today was his first day as well. Gigi is antagonistic to Pike at first, but she can’t fight the attraction, even though she knows her dad will not be happy once the truth comes out. And, boy, does it come out.

Flame is an awesome book. The reader is drawn in from the very first word. Gigi and Pike are both amazingly written. Their chemistry is off the charts. I love Gigi’s spirit and her loyalty to her family. But, I also love her stubborn and independent streak. Pike’s easy-going nature hides a past that has left him searching for someone and a place to call his own. His back story is what it is, until he finds out that there was more to it and puts him and Gigi in danger. Gigi’s family, the Gallos, don’t let anyone or anything threaten those they consider family, and fortunately for Pike, he’s in that circle now. I fell in love immediately with the Gallos. (Full disclosure: I had never read this author before, so when I finished this book I went and looked her up. Imagine my surprise when I found out that there is a whole series about the Gallos! It took me about five minutes to acquire everything she has written up to Flame.) The world that Bliss has built with the people of Inked is second to none. Her writing style doesn’t waste words and everything you read is pertinent to the story. It’s been a long time since I’ve been so excited about finding a new (to me) author. I don’t care what type of romance reader you are, you will absolutely fall in love with Gigi and Pike and the entire Gallo family. I can’t wait for the next installment. Well done, Chelle Bliss! Very, very, very well done!

_________

Julie’s Review Joey/City’s (book THROTTLE ME) daughter Gigi has all grown up she’s aiming to take her place in the family business. Tattooing is all she’s ever known, and she’s excited to start the next chapter in her life. But she didn’t expect to run into past…..

Pike can’t believe his eyes, after spending a passionate week with this woman, she just disappears on him, the last place he thought he’d see her was at his new job. And wouldn’t you know it, she’s the bosses daughter!!! Out of his league and if he wants to keep his job, then she needs to stay that way…..

But the chemistry that drew them together, is still at work, they can’t keep their eyes or minds off of each other. It’s only a matter of time….. But time maybe running out. Pike’s past has caught up with him, and caught up Gigi too, he never wanted to hurt her, but things don’t always work out that way.

What the hell has Pike brought to town? It could get messy, and people could get hurt. Can Gigi forgive Pike? Or will she watch him ride out of town forever? And what will Pike think when he finds out her real “age”!!

This book is a spin off from her “The Men of Inked” you don’t need to read the precious series to enjoy this new series. But I might have to go and have a look at the old series ?

I liked the chemistry between Gigi and Pike. I also liked the fact the series is a next generation series. Very descriptive, really well written. I have several tattoos so I know how the process works, so it was nice to read.

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USA Today bestselling author Chelle Bliss currently lives in a small town near the Gulf of Mexico. She’s a full-time writer, time-waster extraordinaire, social media addict, and coffee fiend. She’s written over ten books and has two series available. She loves spending her free time with her boyfriend, 2 cats, and her hamster.

 

Before becoming a writer, Chelle taught high school history for over ten years. She holds a master’s degree in Instructional Technology and a bachelor’s in History. Although history is her first love, writing has become her dream job and she can’t imagine doing anything else.

WEBSITE – FACEBOOK – NEWSLETTER – TWITTER – INSTAGRAM

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