Until There Was You by Jessica Scott

A by-the-book captain with a West Point background, Captain Evan Loehr refuses to mix business with pleasure—except for an unguarded instance years ago when he succumbed to the deep sensuality of redheaded beauty Claire Montoya. From that moment on, though, Evan has been at odds with her, through two deployments to Iraq and back again. But when he is asked to train a team prepping for combat alongside Claire, battle-worn Evan is in for the fight of his life.

Strong, gutsy, and loyal, Captain Claire Montoya has worked hard to earn the rank on her chest. In Evan, Claire sees a rigid officer who puts the rules before everything else—including his people. When the mission forces them together, Claire soon discovers that there is more to Evan than meets the eye.

He’s more than the rank on his chest; he’s a man with dark secrets and deep longings. For all their differences, Evan and Claire share two crucial passions: their country and each other.

 Grace's Review:

Love is a battlefield between two army captains!

Until There Was You begins with Captain Evan Loehr and Captain Claire Montoya meeting in Fort Hood, Texas in 2005. There is an immediate spark of attraction, but these two can't back away from each other fast enough. Oh, no, either one can't afford to be distracted from work! The tension is so thick between them that it carries on for a few years. Fast forward to Colorado, 2008. Evan and Claire have worked on some missions together since first meeting, and they still can't stand to be in the same room. This particular mission, and the people involved, forces both to face their demons, which just may be the key to breaking down the walls around each of their hearts allowing them to let some much needed love inside.

I read the first book, Because of You, right before delving into this one. With a different cast of characters and a different setting, Until There Was You, can be read as a stand-alone. If you've read the first book, then you know that Ms. Scott can write emotional, squeeze-your-heart-out scenes very well. She offers all that and more in this edgy sequel. I love how her stories tackle some very serious issues. This time it is alcohol abuse and how one is affected and deals with alcoholism.

Perhaps one of my favorite things about this author is that she writes some of the best strong-willed, stubborn characters around! Claire is a feisty redhead who thinks it's OK to bend the rules as long as it gets the job done. She refers to Evan as “Captain America” because he believes that following the rules is the only way to go. Really, these two are like two bulls butting heads all the time! Evan can't ever lose control, because of a tragic event that happened in his past. Claire has been let down so many times in her life that she has major trust issues. The story is a rich mixture of serious, humorous, and sensual moments. The laugh-out-loud parts are pretty darn funny, especially during an intimate scene. Claire spits out some snarky remarks that had me bursting with laughter!

So while reading this, it reminded me of the song “Love is a Battlefield” by Pat Benatar. These lyrics:

“We're losing control
Will you turn me away or touch me deep inside?
And before this gets old, will it still feel the same?
There's no way this will die
But if we get much closer, I could lose control
And if your heart surrenders, you'll need me to hold”

Yeah, these lyrics remind me of Evan & Claire perfectly!

I am so honored to have read an ARC of Until There Was You. Between books 1 and 2, there are some characters that I'd like to see get their happy ever after. For me anyways, book 3 can't come fast enough! I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next in this series!

One Night Rodeo (#4) By Lorelei James

All it takes is one night to change a cowboy’s life… Barrel racer Celia Lawson knows better than to tangle with bull rider Kyle Gilchrist. The sexy cowboy’s love ‘em and leave ‘em ways have earned him a reputation on the rodeo circuit, and he’s always seen her as his best friend’s kid sister. But after one wild, tequila-fueled night, Celia wakes up to find out she’s gotten herself hitched—to a man she never should have married! When Celia insists on an annulment, Kyle has no good reason to say no—except he isn’t ready to let go of his new bride. But then Kyle inherits a sprawling Wyoming ranch, and seizes the opportunity to enlist Celia’s help. She agrees to lend a hand—with two conditions: He has to get up to speed as a rancher within six months; then they’ll get a divorce. And their marriage will be in name only. Kyle gives in to Celia’s demand, yet he's ready to prove to her he has what it takes to turn their one night rodeo into a lifetime of love….

Sam's Review:

In the blink of an eye Celia Lawson and Kyle Gilchrist’s lives changed forever. After a fuelled night of Alcohol and pain medication, Celia wakes up to find herself hitched to her lifelong pain in the arse friend, Kyle. Celia immediately demands an annulment, but Kyle just can’t bring himself to agree, not when his been harbouring secret feelings for Celia for the last two years. So when Kyle suddenly inherits a Wyoming Ranch Celia agrees to hang around to teach him the ropes of running a ranch, but on two conditions. One: After six months they file for divorce and secondly, the marriage is name only.....pfft.

Okay so I say this at the end of EVERY Lorelei James book I read, but *sigh* this was my favorite cowboy read so far. And I'm delving in right here, but how could you not love a book with paragraphs like THIS in it:

"Oh yes, little wifey mine, we'll be having sex. Lots and lots of sex. Sweet sex, raunchy sex, shower sex, sex on the floor, sex against the wall, sex in bed, sex in the truck, sex in the barn, sex on the tractor, and sex on this table." He smacked it hard.
Her silver eyes went wide.
"And in case that wasn't clear, I'll say it plain. I like sex. A lot of sex. Morning, noon and night."

Okay – so like kind of sounds like a Dr. Suess book, but DAYUM! So I am lover of all things cowboy related; the music, the bull riding, the rodeos, the cars, and the speech – you name it, but Ms. James went all gooey on my heart when she bought Kyle into my life. This man was the bad boy in this series and I couldn’t not wait to get his book and to have him paired up with wild Celia just was a perfect ending. One Night Rodeo weaved an awesome plot with these two lovable heroes. There are just so many hot wicked moments tied in with the tear jerking tenderness that Kyle delivered with expert skill
.
“That tongue of yours is an awesome alarm clock."

One night Rodeo kept me wanting more the entire read. And reading their relationship grow from love/ hate to love was humorous as it was entertaining. Ms James has only showed us again the talent of her writing and the words that she weaves. With stories full of family, friends, love, eroticism and laughter. I loved this story and would recommend this series and any other series by this wonderful author to anyone!

”They fight because there’s more between them than they understand at their age.”

 

 

Seducing Cinderella (#1) By Gina L. Maxwell

Mixed martial arts fighter Reid Andrews’s chance to reclaim his title as light heavyweight champ is shattered when he’s injured only months before the rematch. To make sure he’s healed in time, his trainer sends him to recuperate under a professional’s care—Reid’s best friend’s little sister, all grown up.

Disorganized and bookish Lucie Miller needs some professional help of her own. She’d do anything to catch the eye of a doctor she’s crushed on for years, so when Reid offers seduction lessons in exchange for 24/7 conditioning for the biggest fight of his career, Lucie jumps at the chance.

Soon Reid finds him himself in the fight of his life...winning Lucie's heart before she gives it to someone else.

Grace's Review:

Charming with lots of HEAT!

Lucie Miller thinks she knows exactly the type of man who is compatible with her, and it certainly is not her brother's best friend! MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) fighter, Reid Andrews, needs to heal up quickly for his next fight and strikes a deal with Lucie. She will help heal his injury using her professional physical therapy skills while he teaches her the art of seduction. Lucie jumps at this opportunity if it will help overcome her insecurities to land her crush. As they spend lots of time together, lines start to get crossed, and then who exactly is seducing who?

“Was it possible to physically feel the moment you lost your heart to someone?” --Gina L. Maxwell, Seducing Cinderella

This story offers a modern day twist to the classic tale with slight fairytale elements. Don't get me wrong, it has a everything fans of contemporary romance crave! It's funny, emotional, sexy with the right amount of angst. Lucie sees herself as a plain Jane, and Reid is so charming in making her realize that she really is beautiful inside and out. Their chemistry together is off the charts! Maxwell does not disappoint her readers in that area at all. Reid is definitely a tortured hero to fall in love with. I can't blame Lucie for caressing his muscles and tattoos...Mmmm!

As the author's debut novel, this is really a fantastic start to a new series. A must read for those who love really cute happily ever afters!

Skin Deep (#5.5) By Pamela Clare

An I-Team Spin Off

Broken on the inside

Megan Hunter has worked hard to get back on her feet, leaving the nightmare of her teenage years behind. The last thing she wants or needs in her life is a man. But when she is attacked by someone from her past, a scarred stranger intervenes, saving her life and that of her little girl. Looks can be deceiving, for despite the man’s rough appearance, she feels safe with him. And for the first time in her life, she knows the stirrings of desire.

Broken on the outside

Nathaniel West paid a high price serving with the Marines in Afghanistan. He returned to his family’s ranch in the Colorado mountains to heal—and be alone. Disfigured as he is, he has put all thoughts of sex and romance aside. But something about Megan brings him back to life, heats his blood, makes him feel like a man again. As danger pursues her, and the truth about her past is revealed, he vows to protect her—and to heal her wounded spirit.

But confronting the past is never easy—especially when it’s carrying a gun. Megan will have to learn to trust Nate to survive and to claim a passion that is much more than … Skin Deep.

Includes a Bonus Story, Marc & Julian Make a Beer Run

Ride along with Marc, Julian, Zach, Gabe, Reece, Nate, and Joaquin as a beer run turns out to be more than they bargained for.

Thessa's Review:

4.25-4.5 Stars

First off, may I say that I couldn't stop looking at this gorgeous cover. I mean, come on! That is some serious eye candy right there. LOL. Okay. I'm done gawking…for now ;)

So anyway, beneath this gorgeous cover lies a highly entertaining story. I haven't read a romantic suspense novel in ages and this was just what the doctor ordered. It was a bit on the short side, but that was okay. It was jammed packed with action, a little suspense and a whole lot of chemistry. I love Nate. He is a true hero, inside and out. He served our country and has the scars to prove them. Even after all the burns and multiple surgeries, his soul remains beautiful. He is blessed with the support of his father and his community. He finds love again with Megan. However, Megan comes with a terrible past, a violent one to boot. Nate will do whatever it takes to protect her & her daughter.

So like I said prior to reading this book, this was my first Pamela Clare book. Be warned that there are minor spoilers in this book for those of you that are like me who haven’t read her I-Team books yet. Characters from those books do make an appearance and what terrific characters they were too. I will definitely be picking up this series in the near future :)

 

 

Wicked Ties By Shayla Black (#1)

When a stalker ratchets up his attempts to get to her, cable sex talk show host Morgan O'Malley turns to Jack Cole-a self-proclaimed dominant- for help. Though Jack is a bodyguard, Morgan feels anything but safe in his presence. Because slowly and seductively, Jack is bringing her deepest fantasies to the surface. And when he bends her to his will, what's more shocking than her surrender is how much she enjoys it and how she starts to crave his masterful touch. A willing player in Jack's games, Morgan knows that his motives aren't pure. But she has no idea how personal they are.

Elena's Review:

Wicked Ties is only intended for readers who like the sizzle and spice,sexual tension that rates off the richter scale. Why do I say this? Well I can not deny that this book contains light BDSM and a Ménage à trois scene that is wantonly wicked! Although there is more to the novel,I just had to throw in that small thought and give readers the heads up!

Morgan O’Malley, is the host of a cable talk show called ‘Turn Me On’. She gets an interview to do research for the show about dominance and submission and hopes to get this guest she's going to interview on the show.She meets with a man named Jack Cole,he's known for being experienced as a Dominant/Alpha Hero,and at the same time is running away from a crazy stalker who's been following her.BUT....little does Morgan know,Jack is devious he knew what he was doing when arranging the meeting,he's out to to get revenge on someone from his past,that Morgan is close to. So everything fits perfectly when they meet and some crazy sadistic shooter ranges fire while their out for lunch.Then BAM! What do we know, Jack is also a bodyguard,which at first I didn't buy it,I just thought he was yet another male trying to get in Morgans panties for a present......I was wrong (well sorta),it was a darn shame too cause he is mighty fine!The sensual heat index between this couple was boiling, enfuego(crazy-hot)in my undies!

Since Jack takes on the role of being Morgan's bodyguard.He takes her back to his place to keep her safe. Well,from everyone but him.....Kinky Stud Muffin! Jack has got it all planned out to have Morgan submit to him,which she enjoys with no questions asked (neither would I LOL!) His revenge is going terrific, except the part where he's not only attracted to Morgan, but his lustful revenge turns him too falling for and liking her.So in somehow someway everything he does will backfire,doesn't it always? Hehehe....
Jack looks towards his best friend Deke for help,being that they are best friends.Deke works in the department of investigations so he does what he can to find out who this stalker is and give Morgan a little piece of mind. If you ask me,it was a setup I tell you! Why would anyone do anything for free? Just to help out a friend? Highly unlikely.No complaints here though.It goes way beyond burning-up-the-pages-with-hot sex. When these three,Jack,Morgan and Deke connect (Literally) You can feel it from your head to your toes and everywhere in between! I don't remember how many times I thought I was catching a fever or hiding my flushed face around my family when reading these three, it was Scorching!The sex is downright dirty and wonderfully wild!

Others would probably not like the fact that Jack uses Morgan for his own personnel uses to plot revenge,but I think,Oh well,everything happened for a reason,and I enjoyed it.Endure it and have fun with it,if you know what the novel is about,then you should already know what to expect.Wicked Ties is flat out about sex, submission and domination. Jack is a pretty tough Dominant male and Morgan is ah.....Morgan. LOL! She seemed a little too much like a Damsel in Distress.But I thought the characters were immensely likable and the story plot was enthralling. 

 

Funny Funny, Har,Har

You Damn Straight!....



I once was on a plane where I was served by an obviously homosexual male flight attendant. At one point, he bounced over to where I was sitting and announced "The Captain has asked me to announce that he will be landing the big scary plane shortly, so if you could just put up your trays, that would be great." I did as he had instructed but the woman sitting next to me did not.


A few moments later, our flight attendant came back and said to her: "Ma'am, perhaps you couldn't hear me over the big scary engine, but I asked you to please put up your tray so that the captain can land the plane." She still wouldn't comply. Now he was getting angry and asked her again to put up the tray.

She then calmly turned to him and said: "In my country, I am called a princess. I take orders from no one." The flight attendant replied, "Oh yeah? Well in MY country, I'm called a queen and I outrank you, bitch, so put the tray up!"

Risking It All By Jennifer Schmidt

Kennedy Moore barely got her foot in her college dorm before she was be her foot in her college dorm her freshman yeue-eyed self-proclaimed Casanova. There were only so many tales of heartache – and incredibly steamy nights – she could listen to before she started to believe them. But afting warned about a certain dark-haired, blKennedy Monroe barely goter a run in with the most sought after college womanizer, her ill feelings toward him change and soon a friendship forms that surprises everyone.

Twelve years later Kennedy and Memphis Adams are closer than ever - and only friends despite what those around them think, including Kennedy’s boyfriend Ian Brooks. When Kennedy accepts an invitation to vacation in Alaska from Memphis, her relationship with Brooks is tested as is her restraint when it comes to the desire she has always had for her best friend.

Alone with Memphis in Alaska, Kennedy finds it increasingly harder to ignore temptation and wants nothing more than to give into her secret desires with the one man that has always been off limits. But is one night of passion worth the possible risk of losing their friendship over?

Feeling torn between doing the right thing and doing what she wants, Kennedy fears losing her best friend. She knows she needs to sort out her feelings for the two men in her life and deal with the consequences of her actions, but how can she when everything seems to be falling apart so fast? And how much can Memphis take before he’s pushed too far and can no longer take Kennedy’s inability to make a decision about what and who she wants?

Kennedy discovers the harsh reality of how one night can change everything and leave her risking it all.

Holly's Review:

I really loved this book! Something about these two characters really crawled right under my skin! Sometimes there is just a book that grabs you and holds on tight all the way through and this was that book for me!

Any one who knows me knows that I am a total sucker for a friends to lovers story and that is really what this wonderful book was but with so much more!

In college Kennedy Monroe heard all the gossip about Memphis Adams and knew there was no way she was going to simply be another notch on his bedpost and told him exactly that. Memphis decides that he wants Kennedy as a friend too much to simply had sex with and alas, a beautiful friendship is born! They become inseparable, best friends.

Over a decade later and they are both adults in the real world and still thick as thieves. When Kennedy begins to realize her long time doctor boyfriend just may not be the one for her she starts to wonder if the one for her has been with her all along. Knowing that bringing sex and her feelings into the equation with Memphis could ruin what they have Kennedy is very hesitant, especially since she doesn't believe he feels anything more than friendship for her, until the one amazing kiss....

Memphis has been in love with Kennedy for as long as he can remember and was content to be her friend but that is all about to change. A photographer, Memphis has an assignment in Alaska, someplace Kennedy had always wanted to go so he asks her to come along. Things don't go exactly as planned but I will say this is where EVERYTHING changes! From this point on I felt the story became very emotionally charged and at times I actually wanted to smack Kennedy in the face my own self but I soon realized, like the rest of you will, that she just needed to work everything out on her own to come to the right conclusion. The thing I loved most about this book was the authors ability to show the true strength of the friendship between Kennedy and Memphis above all else.

If you are a fan of friends to lovers stories please give this one a try, I promise you will not be disappointed!!

 

 

Be Still My Vampire Heart (#3) By Kerrelyn Sparks

In this follow-up to "Vamps and the City" and "How to Marry a Millionaire Vampire," Sparks continues her vampire romance series with this entry that proves the only thing that can beat a vampire in a kilt is a mortal slayer with a grudge. Original.

Ren's Review:

So far this  is one of  my favorite books in this series, and I enjoyed it from the start till finish :). "Be Still My Vampire Heart" is the story on  Angus MacKay (weird name, Angus?) and Emma Wallace (not, not Braveheart, LOL)..

Angus MacKay is a vampire. Turned by Roman Draganesti (hero from book one), and then became his close friend and ally. One day he finds out  disturbing news. Someone has slayed many vampires outside. Its  good news of course, because the vampire that got slayed is part of Malcontent. Or The True Ones, the bad vampire and The Vamps opposites, the good vampire. But it gets bad after all, because the American - Russian coven, accused Roman's coven as part of this massacre, and want to get war. Angus realized, maybe this is Stake Out Team responsibilities, so he go to Central Park to warn the slayer..

Emma Wallace, is a human. She is part of the Stake Out Team, and also slayer of the vampires. When she goes to Central Park, she meets Angus, to find him  examining his underparts behind his kilt (LOL!!). First, she doesn't know that he's a vampire. Just finds him  charming, and attractive in some medieval way (and with his sexy scottish brogue..). But then she finds out he is a vampire (no need a long time for her to realize that, not like the 2 first books), and Angus warns her, to not slay vampires again. Because it can danger her life, and she hesitates. For Emma, vampire are all evil, but soon, she knows, that vampires like humans to. Some good, some bad.

Emma tries to trust Angus, and Angus tries to protect her in any way. And then the dangers from Malcontents start growing... Emma and Angus got captured by Katya, Russian Coven co-master, and Angus ex-lover. She took them to her base, in Ukraine. Katya left Emma and Angus in room full of silver, so Angus cannot escaped. Worse, Katya emptied his flask of blood, so he will get hungry when he wakes from his dead state in daylight. The only way Angus to fill his thirst, is drink Emma's blood. But can he do that, and will Emma be willing to give her blood, when they realize, they love each other?...

Sound familiar with this plot, like previous two books? Not really, because even the theme is the same (prejudice about vampire is evil), I enjoyed this book more from the previous books. Emma is my kind of heroine. She can kick any vampire ass, but she still has a kind heart. And I like when she banters with Angus. Angus is an alpha man type. A Scotland knight that always keeps his words, and he is so conservative. The way he treats Emma sometimes makes me laugh, but its adorable too. He has some odd way of humor and habits. Like always checks under his kilt after he teleports to some place, to make sure everything is intact and still in the place *LOL* (got an info that Scotland men not wearing anything under his kilt , wow :)) ). ...

They're are some characters who  will steal your attention, like Gregori, Roman's vice president (he's like comic relief in this series), Connor Buchanan, Ian McPhie, Giacomo di Venezia (a Cassanova's descendants, so he's always flirting, anytime, anywhere, any woman), and a new vampire, Phineas, that makes sure everyone calls him, Doctor Phang...

Cant wait to read their story, and I will continue to read the next in this series.

 

Run The Risk (#1) By Lori Foster

Nothing can shake a cop from pursuing justice-except a beautiful witness marked for death, in New York Times bestselling author Lori Foster's sexy new series... When Detective Logan Riske goes undercover to find Pepper Yates, a potential link to his best friend's unsolved murder, he vows to gain her cooperation by any means necessary. But the elusive beauty is more suspicious-and in far more danger-than he expected. And the last thing Logan needs is to start caring for her.... Pepper has spent the past five years dodging the corrupt club owner who will stop at nothing to keep her silenced. She can trust no one, not even the handsome new "construction worker" who's moved in next door. The heat between them is undeniable. But will surrendering to passion bring her the safety she so desires-or will her feelings for Logan draw them both into a killer's crosshairs?

Holly's review:

Lori Foster has hit another home run with this first in her up coming new series Love Undercover!!

Logan Riske and Pepper Yates live in a world where things are not always as they appear. Logan is an undercover cop heading the task force to bring down a notoriously bad guy, who incidentally murdered his best friend and he thinks that Pepper is his link to do just that. Logan, posing as a construction worker attempts to charm his neighbor Sue Meeks, who is actually Pepper in a rather amazing disguise. Logan knows who she is, of course, and getting close to Pepper could be the only shot he has at getting to her brother Rowdy who is the one witness to his buddy's murder. What Logan doesn't expect in all this is to become hopelessly drawn to Pepper, especially when they all come out of their roles and into the people they really are!

This is a great start to the series and I really don't want to give much away so I will just say this - These characters are all very complex, the men are alphas, the women are bad ass and not much is at all as it seems. I loved the way that the characters developed and I loved meeting and getting a taste of who and what is to come. This book sets us right up to dive into the next one itching to know just what the hell is going on now? :)

I have always been a huge fan of Lori Foster and if you are too, or even if you have never read her and just want to be entertained for a bit by hot alpha's, kick as chicks, and corruption and bad guys check this one out, you will not be disappointed!!

 

If I Were You by Lisa Renee Jones

 He is rich and famous, and dark in ways I shouldn’t find intriguing, but I do. I so do. I don’t understand why his dark side appeals to me, but the attraction between us is rich with velvety promises of satisfaction. Chris is dark, and so are his desires, but I cannot turn away. He is damaged beneath his confident good looks and need for control, and in some way, I feel he needs me. I need him.

 

Grace's Review!

When fantasy collides with reality...

High school teacher, Sara McMillan, had no idea her life was about to change when her friend leaves her the contents of a storage unit won in an auction. Sara also can't help but become obsessed with the journals that were in the storage unit. The journals contain Rebecca Mason's deep, dark thoughts, and the more Sara reads them and gets to know Rebecca through her belongings, the more Sara feels a connection to Rebecca, especially through their shared love of art. Sara wonders what happened to her and vows to find Rebecca if only to return her things and make sure she's OK.

Attending an event at the art gallery Rebecca worked at unexpectedly leads to Sara being offered a job there...Rebecca's job! Sara is more than capable with her art background and knowledge, but on a personal level, she has been waiting for a career opportunity like this to get her foot into the world of art, even though it's only for the summer months. As Sara steps into Rebecca's “shoes” the mystery surrounding her is more alive. Sara is more determined to find her.

“...I'd forgotten there's a price for overindulgence. And there is a price. There is always a price.”

At the art gallery we meet its manager, Mark Compton. He is sexy, intimidating, and has a commanding presence. Could he be the man Rebecca writes about in her journals? We also meet Chris Merit, a famous artist whose work Sara knows all about. She finds it surprising that this handsome and charming artist is fascinated with her. Chris is moody and controlling and warns Sara of his dark side before they embark on something intense and intimate. Could Chris be the man in the journals? Sara is wondering what exactly she is becoming entangled in when she began this mission to find Rebecca.

“He's dangerous and I've never wanted to live on the edge more in my life.”

Oh my goodness! I honestly could not stop reading this! It's mysterious and thrilling all whirled into one delicious, seductive story! I loved how the setting is in and around San Francisco, a city rich and proud of its art, food, and people. Jones incorporates all that very well into this story. Sara is such a strong, capable heroine. She knows what she wants and goes for it! Right away, you'll find the mystery surrounding Rebecca to be dark and intriguing; however, this is mostly Sara and Chris' story with just enough of Rebecca's story right there lingering on the outer edges, enticing the reader. Just when a little more about her is revealed, and Sara goes digging for more information...BAM...book 1 ends, leaving you yearning for book 2!!! It's not even funny. The end left me shaking a little bit.

This is a fantastic start to the Inside Out trilogy! I recommend this for erotica fans who like a little splash of BDSM with mystery. There is only a glimpse into the BDSM world in book 1, but with how this one ended, I'm wondering now how dark the next stories are going to get. It left me feeling like something big is going to happen. I'm looking forward to finding out! Thank you to Lisa Renee Jones for letting me read an ebook ARC of this story for an honest review.

The Ripple Effect (#3) By J.A Saare

There is always a price to pay…

Rhiannon Murphy visited the future, witnessed hell on earth and made choices to change things for the greater good. Unfortunately there are consequences for her actions, the penalties for her interference possibly more than she can bear. Determined to sever her debt with a fallen angel, she pushes everything aside, focusing on locating Marigold Vesta’s resting place.

Until death comes knocking at her door.

When Disco’s maker arrives in New York, he resents Rhiannon on a level she can’t begin to comprehend. Yet Marius isn’t her most dangerous adversary, not by a long shot. Marius’s sire -- a half-demon -- is determined to see the necromancer who stunned the vampire world on her knees. If she won’t bend, he’ll do everything in his power to make her break. No price is too high, meaning no one is safe -- including Disco and Paine.

Dealt a blow from which she can never recover, Rhiannon turns to the only person who can help her: the fallen angel who is relying on Rhiannon to save her soul. Bartering with a creature from Heaven is probably just as dangerous as starting a war with a demon from Hell, but with nothing to lose it’s no longer about life or death.

It’s about getting even.

Elena's Review:

Rhiannon Law #18: No one asks for their life to change,but it does. The bad things we face are tests created to separate the strong from the weak. Once you've found your place-as the savage lion or the tranquil lamb-it's up to you to take the next step,to decide what comes after.Even If it means destroying everything standing in your path on the road to deliverance."

This series is rock solid full of awesomeness!

Rhiannon Murphy,is and never will be the typical Heroine you should expect. If she saids she'll "make you quiver with fear" believe it! She has been through hell and back. Literally, at this point she has absolutely nothing to lose. Giving into the head masters demands and his leader don't quite run as they want it, she'll bow down to no one,and sacrifice herself only for the people she loves and who she's loyal to,no one else. So these vampires can laugh at her tactics, but they'll run like cowards without realizing they're being screwed my a mere human.

There wasn't anything in this novel that was expected. Just the complete opposite. Almost every other chapter was a jaw dropping moment. I've rubbed my chest above my heart a dozen times. Wow! Just Wow! Heartache,betrayals,torture,love between friends and family,and DEATH. These Vampires who thought they could have Rhiannon beg and bow to them,just made themselves the enemy. Revenge, is what Rhia's good at. And boy-oh boy, the irony of it could make her enemies dead in their graves still fear her.

Disco and Paine's involvement with Rhiannon is just the chocolate drizzle on a strawberry. My goodness, will their relationship ever get a rest? I'm afraid it might never. I've never read so much pain,and the lengths of what one would do for someone they love. These men show it with no regrets. *sighs*

My thoughts are still running non-stop. The author put her all into this novel. It was downright perfection! The fourth novel to this series, is still undecided. It would be ashamed not to finish writing the series. But at least with this novel,readers get somewhat of a closure. There's no huge cliffhanger, just a cliffy to make you wonder what will happen in the future. Disco is enraged and is willing to bring the vampiric world to war with everyone and they're creators. Gosh! The thought of Disco taking over makes Rhiannon quiver. Seriously? That is beyond enthralling. I would say "Bring it!" these two as a team could make the world crumble.
"Rhianon: I let go of one final scream,the harsh sound echoing in the morning air,carrying on the breeze as an endless cry that blended with the wind.Only this wasn't a call to the angels. This was a warning to those who would pay,a promise to all enemies. I was coming for the them and,Heaven,or Hell,I was bring death with me."


OH BABY!!! That line gave me the gooseflesh! My Goodness this series is amazing!


I'm holding my breath and crossing my fingers that there will be a fourth book. For those of you,who haven't read this series, give it a go. J.A Saare has brought a whole new meaning to Urban Fantasy and I assure you,you will not be disappointed. 

 

Funny Funny,Har Har

Hey Doc!


A man with a stuttering problem tries everything he can to stop stuttering, but he can't. Finally, he goes to a world  renowned doctor for help. The doctor examines him and says "I've found your problem. Your penis is twelve inches long. It weighs so much that it's pulling on your lungs, causing you to stutter." So he asks, "What's he cure, doc?" The doctor replies, "Well, we have to cut off six inches."

The man is eager to cure his stuttering so he agrees to the operation. The operation is a success, and he stops stuttering. Two months later, the man calls the doctor and tells him that since he's had the 6 inches cut off, all of his girlfriends have dumped him, and his love life has gone down the tubes. He insists that the doctor do another operation to add the six inches back on. 

There is silence on the other end of the telephone, so the man repeats, "Hey doc, didn't you hear me? I want my six inches back!" Finally, the doctor responds, "F-f-f-f-f-f-u-c-k y-y-y-y-ou!

Breathe (#4) By Kristen Ashley

In order to protect a father he does not respect, in Lady Luck, we learned that good cop Chace Keaton went bad, sacrificing his career and his future. But when the local police department's secrets are revealed and the wife he's forced to marry is murdered, Chace finds himself the town of Carnal's hero. Knowing how deep in the mud he was forced to sink, Chace feels he'll never get clean. The quiet, content future he envisioned of the love a good woman with whom he could build a family was now beyond his reach. The only thing he can do is find his wife's murderer.

But he isn't the only one looking.

 
While searching for new leads, he runs into Faye Goodknight, the town's quiet, shy, pretty librarian. Chace has long since had his eye on what could possibly be the town's last remaining virgin but he has also long since given up hope he could make her his. Faye is pure and clean and Chace refuses to dirty her with his sordid past.

Pure and clean Faye may be, but when the shy librarian is forced to go head to head with the man who she's had a crush on since he hit her hometown, Chace finds Faye is full of surprises. And he doesn't know what to do with her.

 

Holly's Review:

I have to come right out and say,everything Kristen Ashley touches turns to GOLD! When a dear friend of mine plainly stated that KA has ruined her for all other authors I find that I completely understand this! All of that said, I am going to humbly admit that since the Colorado Mountain Series was my first KA venture, I am ashamed to say that for a brief moment I couldn't remember Chace and Faye. Yes, I said it, get all of your boo-ing out of the way now. But... it only took me about 1 page to find myself right back in Carnal and holy shit did it all come rushing back!

Chace Keaton was the town hero when he exposed the dirty police force in his town in Lady Luck when his wife was brutally murdered, a wife he despised mind you, but his wife nonetheless. Although Chace sees himself as anything but a hero, in fact he feels as though he is drowning in the dark as he calls it, part of his attempting to get clean is his continuing search for his late wife's killer and while doing this he becomes entangled with the one woman he want's more than anything.

Faye Goodnight has loved Chace Keaton since she was 16 years old and has watched him what she feels is from afar, little does she know that Chace has loved her for almost as long. Now knowing that his marriage was blackmail at it's worst, Faye sets about making him hers. Now, to say this starts off rocky for the quiet, seemingly shy, 29 year old virgin is putting it mildly but things quickly heat up. Being the town librarian Faye is a geek of the best kind, in fact, I do believe she and I would get along famously, but anyway, as the town librarian she notices a boy coming in to the library dirty and beaten and he runs when she tries to approach him. Faye knows he needs help and she enlists Chace to help her find out what the frak is going on. As with all of KA's wonderful stories, this means the whole town and then some take Chace and Faye's backs to right a terrible wrong they know is happening. There are bad guys, good guys, hot sex, lots of geek references, lots of love and an amazing towns support and loyalty!

I could go on and on and on about how much I love Ms. Ashley, her books, the characters, the towns, etc but I will stop here because if you have never picked up one of her books stop what you are doing right now and go get one....or all of them! If you have read her then you totally get me! You will love Chace, a smokin' hot Alpha, and Faye, a kickass, geek librarian who show us there is nothing better than Holding Out for a Hero - I promise you!!

 

The Angel by Tiffany Reisz

No safe word can protect the heart...

Infamous erotica author and accomplished dominatrix Nora Sutherlin is doing something utterly out of character: hiding. While her longtime lover, Søren–whose fetishes, if exposed, would be his ruin–is under scrutiny pending a major promotion, Nora’s lying low and away from temptation in the lap of luxury.

Her host, the wealthy and uninhibited Griffin Fiske, is thrilled to have Nora stay at his country estate, especially once he meets her traveling companion. Young, inexperienced and angelically beautiful, Michael has become Nora’s protégé, and this summer with Griffin is going to be his training, where the hazing never ends.

But while her flesh is willing, Nora’s mind is wandering. To thoughts of Søren, her master, under investigation by a journalist with an ax to grind. And to another man from Nora’s past, whose hold on her is less bruising, but whose secrets are no less painful. It’s a summer that will prove the old adage: love hurts.

 Rhonda's Review: 

 Tiffany Reisz is a Goddess with a pen!
The Original Sinners series by Tiffany Reisz has completely consumed me.  This is hands down one of the best series I have had the pleasure of reading.  Reisz is brilliant in her writing and capturing the distinct personalities of each of her characters.  She writes characters that are multi-layered,  that will find their way into your heart and mind.  They are dark, funny, witty, charming, promiscuous, damaged, sexy, shy, and just an absolutely delicious cast to read.  It seems Reisz has come up with her own formula and is very clever in her execution.

For those that are new to this series, and haven’t read the first book ,The Siren, you must start there, this book is not stand alone.  Also, take everything you believe about sex, love, promiscuity, religion and BDSM, particularly S&M,  and put it away.  If you are not willing to open your mind to a darker story and withhold judgment then this series isn’t for you.

 This story begins a little over a year after The Siren, and life is good for Nora and Soren that is until trouble shows up at Sacred Heart in the form of reporter named Suzanne.  Soren is being considered for a promotion to bishop, and Suzanne has received an anonymous fax suggesting a conflict of interest involving the good priest.  Of course her first thoughts are that Soren is a pedophile.  Soren decides to send Nora and 17 year old Michael to Upstate New York to stay with her friend Griffin until things cool down with the nosey reporter.  Soren suggests that Nora take this time to train young Michael as a submissive.   This sets in motion a crazy fun ride with Griffin and Nora at the helm.  Griffin is the carefree, fun loving, playboy , and was such a fun character to get to know, I just adored him. Nora is magnificent as usual, funny, charming, insightful, and very sweet with those she cares for.  Soren, I have a love/hate relationship with,  I hate I love him! Then there’s Michael,  he’s so sweet, and has such battered self-esteem and self worth.

Nora hasn’t spent any time away from Soren since she went back to him a little over a year ago.  Now in Upstate New York with her friends, her thoughts start to stray back to a young man that she has loved , and has been her best friend.  A young man she pushed away so she wouldn’t keep hurting him.  I loved this part of the story, there was a moment my heart was just soaring!

A lot of information from Soren and Nora’s past come out in this book, matter of fact, there’s something revealed about everyone in this story, some of it is dark, and there are some surprises as well.  One thing I have noticed  in this series, is that characters all come from a damaged past, but that is not why they like the kink they do,  they do because it’s just part of their make up, who they are.  They would be kinky even without the scars from their past.

 I loved the first book so much and loved this one just as much.  The Siren was a bit darker, but The Angel still has the dark element, but is also more flirty and humorous.
I actually laughed a lot with this book, and enjoyed every page.  This series has landed on my very favorites shelf, and one I could read over and over.  The Original Sinners and Tiffany Reisz go beyond stars for me.  I give my 5 stars,  but it was so much more.  Fans of the series will not be disappointed!

Many Thanks to Harlequin and Netgalley for the advance copy.

 5+ Brilliant stars!! 

Thessa's Review!

Five++ Enormously Dark & Sinful Stars

**Warning: There might be spoilers in this review. Please do not read this until you’ve read the Siren (The Original Sinners #1)**

♥♥ Many Waters ♥♥
Many waters cannot quench love, Nor will rivers overflow it. ~ Song of Solomon 8:7
As I was reading this, I thought about how I haven’t gone to confession in years, not since I attended an all girls Catholic High School. Then as the story progressed, I was thoroughly immersed in this world. I started to form bonds with all the key characters. I fell in love with Nora and her world full of beautiful men. I loved living in her world where even the most perverse thoughts and actions were okay to think about. Certain images formed in my mind and then, finally, I said, “I think it’s high time to go to confession.”

Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners…

After I read the Siren, my world was turned upside down. I knew my tastes in books can run on the darker side, and I loved the majority of them. I read many stories that delve into subjects that went beyond my comfort level, but yet, I found myself enjoying immensely because the story was just that amazing. This sequel was just another part of this amazing, dark and sinfully delicious series.

Jeg elsker dig. Due r mit hjerte. I love you, You are my heart.

Love has so many interpretations in this series. There are so many relationships formed in this book. Nora and Soren’s relationship is, of course, intensely raw and greatly misunderstood (Nora, are you proud of all the adverbs so far in my review? lol). To me, book one only skimmed the surface of their relationship. Here, their story was discussed a little more and I found myself starting to understand their bond. Their relationship is unconventional, to say the least, but we cannot help who we love.

Then we have Griffin and Michael. My. God. I loved these two so f**king much. They complimented each other and they formed the sweetest, most affectionate bond imaginable. Griffin is just insanely sexy and I confess, I wouldn’t have minded a piece of that. LOL. He made me laugh and I just enjoyed his character immensely. And Michael. Oh, Michael, you poor damaged boy. I’m so excited that you found someone who will appreciate the wonderful man you’ve become and who will give you the type of love you need. Love these two ♥♥

Lastly, and certainly not least, there is my ♥♥♥♥Wesley♥♥♥♥. I give my whole hearted thanks to the Lord above, and Mistress Reisz of course, that he’s still as wonderful and sweet as ever. Like Nora, I’ve found myself so attached and so in love with him. There’s just something about his charm and innocence that makes him so desirable. God, I love him SO much. I’m so uber excited that the next book will be his story. Possibly bound and blindfolded. Hello I’m smiling from ear to ear just thinking about him.! Whoa. Did I just say that? Whoops. My bad.

I feel like I’ve said so much already, but I haven’t even begun to dive into what went on in the book without giving anything away. Just know that the story did not disappoint what-so-ever. I was thrilled to have been given a chance to read it prior to the release date, but now I’m left hanging until the Prince comes out. I absolutely love this series and highly recommend it to those looking for a great story. This world where Nora resides is one where we can easily immerse ourselves in an alternate world where our deepest fantasies and desires are okay to admit. Come in with an open mind and open heart and you will not be disappointed.

Thank you Harlequin Publishing for giving me the opportunity to read this fantastic and brilliant novel before its release. OMG, I just LOVED this installment!!!!