My Next Book Boyfriend
by Vicki Green
4 STARS
☆☆☆☆
Looking for a fun, feel good book with a swoon worthy man and a quirky, book loving woman?? Then My Next Book Boyfriend is worth a read!!!
Rylie, a shy coffee shop owner and romance book addict, had a great life. She had hundreds of boyfriends from the pages of the books she reads. But a real life tall dark and handsome was missing. Enter Dream Boat Jax and her life turns into the stories from her daily reads. But just as her books had hot steamy romance they also had drama, secrets and misunderstandings. Did Rylie and Jax ride off into the sunset and live happily ever after? Better get the book and find out!
I loved so many things about this book. Rylie was a book lover like me. She fan girled over authors at a book signing (maybe even my very favorite author, too). She was independent, not perfect and lived a pretty normal life. Jax was the handsome, hot guy who fell for Rylie. Yes, that sounds like the perfect romance story. Yes, I was able to predict some of the surprises. But you know what? That was great!!!! I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book and wanted to know more about the characters when the book ended. That made it a great read for me!
(I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.)
Darkest Before Dawn
by Stevie J. Cole
4 STARS
☆☆☆☆
Why didn't I read Stevie J. Cole's books until now!?!?! Wow! Darkest Before Dawn was the gritty, dark romance that I like. The story kept my attention, was fast paced and full of twists and turns I didn't expect. I couldn't put it down! Ava and Max were complex characters and their story makes one reconsider the concept of love. It was full of difficult subjects which could be triggers for some readers. Overall, it was a great read. I will buy more of the Stevie's books now!
(This ARC was kindly provided in return for an honest review.)
The Protector
by Jodi Ellen Malpas
4 STARS
☆☆☆☆
Finally! Another JEM book to sink into!!!
First thing. Jake was not Jessie or Miller so don't go into the book looking for them. Jake had their alpha male qualities and a troubled secret past, but add in a military background and the take-charge attitude soared off the charts. There was a lot of Jake since the book has dual POV's which was a departure from Jodi's other books. As a diehard JEM fan, I loved having more of the male perspective when normally it was in an epilogue.
"He is just about the most perfect man I’ve ever seen, and that’s an achievement, given I’ve had shoots with more beautiful men than I care to remember. But he’s a man. A proper man—big, strong, mature. The crisp stark white collar of his shirt and perfectly knotted grey tie can’t conceal the primal energy practically thrumming from him." - Camille
Secondly, Camille was a different type of female heroine. She was rich, pampered socialite, but strong, determined and very headstrong. She wanted to prove her own worth to a world that saw her as the spoiled party girl. As one can imagine, she was not thrilled to get Jake as a 24/7 bodyguard when her father received threats against her well-being. Her relationship with their father was already a battle ground and having a dark, handsome man with a no-nonsense attitude hovering in all aspects of her life did not help. Her father was a cut throat, ruthless business man with enemies everywhere so Camille needed Jake's protection whether she thought she did or not.
"No one has any idea about the constant battle to keep my mind focused on my future and not my past, the overbearing father who tries to control my life, or the challenge I face almost daily in London’s social scene that’s driven by cocaine and champagne." - Camille
Now for a hotness factor. Holy mother of God when Jake and Camille finally hooked up, I needed a fan or a cold shower! It was H-O-T!!! Smoking!!! Steaming!!! Lord have mercy!!! You get the picture.
“You’re mine, Camille Logan!” He releases his hands and slams them into the wall either side of my head. Bang! “Can you accept that?” - Jake
“Oh, f*cking hell,” he whispers. Dropping his head, he begins to breathe through his single stroke, his body trembling in my arms. “I knew it,” he says hoarsely. “I knew I’d fit you so f*cking right.” - Jake
See what I mean!!!!! H-O-T!!!!
The story was fast paced. It threw me a bit because at 5% in there was a lot of background that normally I would have expected Jodi to feed slowly to the reader. I had to remind myself this was a stand-alone book, not a trilogy so the story had to move along at a good clip. That doesn't mean everything was laid out at the beginning. Jodi had several secrets up her sleeve toward the end that were really good. One I never saw coming! No spoilers here so get the book!
However, I struggled through parts of the book. Not because it was a bad story or poorly written. Not at all! Jodi's work is always fantastic! It just "sounded" different than her previous books. There were several moments where I thought an editor got ahold of it and set the tone because it just didn't sound like her writing. I expected more flowing, romantic dialogue. Toward the end of the book I saw some of that, but by then I was already used to the tone of the book.
Overall I enjoyed reading The Protector. Jodi always weaves a good romance with some mystery, drama and a feel good ending. The book did not disappoint in any of these areas. I highly recommend snapping up this book when it is available in September!
(This ARC was kindly provided by Net Gallery in return for an honest review.)
Pennie$
by Pepper Winters
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
She warned us. The book came with a very clear warning. Enter the darkness of Pennie$ only if you dare. I dared and holy sh*t!
"A beaten slave and a richly dressed thief. Money is what guided their separate fates. Money is what brought them together. And money is what ultimately destroys them."
Pennie$ was inky black, delving back into the evil world of human trafficking as experienced by young Pimlico. The abuse hinted at in The Monsters in the Dark series was laid out in a full emotional way in Pennie$. Pim was debased, dehumanized, raped, demoralized and treated no better than a disposable toy for a sick master. The actions of her owner made me want to step into the story, rescue her and serve up a cold plate of justice on a scrum-bag of a man. And through it all she was surprising strong until she reached a point where she couldn't take any more. Where death (a second time) was the only way to be free.
"This wasn’t a simple cleansing or preparation. This was a baptism into Hell." - Pimlico
Then enter Pepper's newest lead male character, Elder Prest. I heard he was Q and Jethro wrapped up together and I would love him more than them. I don't know if any character will ever take the place of Q for me, but I was highly intrigued by Elder. He was a thief, full of darkness, but bound by strict training from his previous life. He had boundaries, rules to keep himself under control and the darkness at bay. He was drawn to Pim and fought the pull toward her, knowing he was just as evil as her master. But would he save her or just throw her into more of a nightmare? You need to read the book to find out!
"My first thought was...run. His eyes matched those of the men surrounding him. The eyes of a killer, pain-deliverer, and user. But my second thought was...run to him. He didn’t know me. Master A didn’t rule him. He could finally be the one to set me free. Or kill me." - Pimlico
“I’m not the hero in this story, Pimlico. I’m another villain. You’d do best to remember that.” - Elder
Not all was revealed in Pennie$ since it was the first of a new series. In typical Pepper fashion, clues and hints were casually dropped and tiny bits of information were glossed over. Veteran readers of her books will catch them, hi-light and wait for more details in the rest of the series. I know I hi-lighted more than usual! Those bread crumbs will keep me guessing and looking for answers in the future books.
I expected a cliffhanger at the end. It kind of was one, but not like the cliffy endings in the Indebted series. I didn't throw my iPad and curse Pepper's name in vain. But she hooked me into the story so much that I couldn't put it down and will devour the next book, Dollar$, the minute I get it. I need to know what happens next!!!!
“I’m sorry for what I’m about to do. I’m sorry for what I am. You’re worth pennies, but I’ll make you worth fucking millions. However, what I expect in return will be unpayable.” - Elder
Was it darker than her previous books? No, not in my opinion. It was on the same level. However, she left a lot to the imagination. Yes, there were several graphic, ugly scenes, but she also made the reader imagine the abuse through Pim's writings where she simply couldn't voice the atrocities done to her. (Maybe my own mind is just as dark as Pepper's so I wasn't shocked by the story!)
Bravo Pepper on another instant hit!!! You made me feel Pimlico's horrors. You have my undivided attention with Elder Prest. I NEED Dollar$ NOW!!!
(An ARC was kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.)
Suddenly More
by JA Low
4 STARS
☆☆☆☆
Suddenly More, the follow-up novella to Suddenly Dirty, was fun, quick read that left me want more from the JA Low and her characters. Who would't want more of Evan and Sienna and their HEA!!! I had to know more after the first book so this was perfect. And it wet my appetite for her next books so write, JA, write! (I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.)
Into the Nothing
by B.T. Urruela
4 STARS
☆☆☆☆
I thoroughly enjoyed reading BT Urruela's first solo book. It had everything needed to keep my attention; mystery, plot twists, romance, suspense, love and emotion. Granted, some parts were predictable, but he still wove a great story. It was not the typical romance book which was refreshing. The ending felt rushed and was a bit of a cliff hanger, but it did not change my impression of the book. Having said all that, the ending could be to set up the next books in the Broken Outlaw series. Overall it was an enjoyable read and I look forward to BT's next books. (I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.)
Hopelessly Imperfect
by Gabriela Cabezut
4 STARS
☆☆☆☆
Hopelessly Imperfect was a beautifully written YA book by Gabriela Cabezut. This was my first book from her and I will keep an eye out for her future releases. Cassie's loss was highly emotional and made me grieve with her. The attraction and closeness between Cassie and Nathan gave me hope as I read that the characters would find peace in their individual struggles and help each other as well. In the end it was a wonderful story that stayed with me which is the hallmark of a very good book. I recommend giving this book a chance as you will not be disappointed. (This ARC was kindly provided in return for an honest review.)
Reclaimed
by Vicki Green
4 STARS
☆☆☆☆
This was my first book from Vicki Green and I am so glad I was able to get an ARC! The story sucked me from page two! Smoking holy hotness on Dax! (*fans self*) He might appear to be a bad boy, but he has a heart of gold. And Saige was not push over even after all the heart ache she went through. Together they were a perfect book couple for me. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading more of Vicki's work. (This ARC was kindly provided in return for an honest review.)
Specimen
by Shay Savage
4 STARS
☆☆☆☆
This was my first sci-fi romance and Shay Savage did not disappoint me at all! A smoking hot alpha-male, suspense, mystery and a high hotness factor pulled me in. I liked how Shay dropped hints here and there to the questions and carefully revealed the answers as the story progressed. I kept trying to guess what was happening. However, I NEVER saw the ending coming!! Boom! Shay laid that one right on me. I was stunned, but it worked. Shay masterfully crafted the story, plot and gave the reader one hot sci-fi romance book!
(Black Dagger Brotherhood Book #9)
by JR Ward
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
I love everything about this book! Payne's softer side came through as well as her characteristic determination and independence from the previous book. I didn't care for Manny in V and Jane's book, but I changed my mind. And the fact he was most likely part vampire was awesome! He was all alpha male as the Brothers, instantly wanting to claim Payne as his woman when he met her.
Plus more V and Jane. Their book left me wanting something, anything, more and Lover Unleashed provided that. Overall this was one of my favorite BDB books!
Lover Mine
(Black Dagger Brotherhood Book #8)
(Black Dagger Brotherhood Book #8)
by JR Ward
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
I have to admit I was leery about John and Xhex's book. I wanted them together and all the other books were building up to this one, but I was still afraid it wasn't going to give me what I wanted. Thank goodness it delivered! Xhex was an amazing character; strong, independent, a warrior yet feminine. She and John had so many mis-steps on their way to a HEA and a lot of them due to their pig-headed natures. I kept wondering if anyone, including John, would realize he was Darius reincarnated. After re-reading Dark Lover I remembered that would not happen per the Scribe Virgin's mandate. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to more of John and Xhex in the series.
Lover Avenged
(Black Dagger Brotherhood Book #7)
(Black Dagger Brotherhood Book #7)
by JR Ward
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
I really did not like Revenge in the other books. Well, I was SO VERY WRONG to hate on him. I thoroughly enjoyed his book!!! What he had endured to keep his family safe, the toll on his body and mind as he deals with this syhmpath side and his self-loathing of being unworthy for Ehlena. All of it make me love him more and more as I read. And Ehlena was amazing. Such a strong female character! She and Revenge were perfect for each other! This Black Dagger Brotherhood books ranks up there with my faves of the series.
Lover Enshrined
(Black Dagger Brotherhood Book #6)
(Black Dagger Brotherhood Book #6)
by JR Ward
3 STARS
☆☆☆
I am sad to rate a Black Dagger Brotherhood book as three stars. I love this series, but Phury's book was just OK. I enjoyed all the side stories of the other characters. However Phury and Cormia's story fell flat to me. Too much Phury not wanting to be the Primale. There just wasn't enough about their relationship to make me love it.
Father Mine
(Zsadist & Bella's Story: A Black Dagger Brotherhood Novella)
(Zsadist & Bella's Story: A Black Dagger Brotherhood Novella)
by JR Ward
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
More Z and Bella!!!!! I loved this novella! How could I not fall more in love with these two and baby Nalla while reading it! Z's past was heart breaking and it held him back from bonding with his young. Bella had those all-to-familiar post-pregnancy feelings mother's have. They struggled and almost broke, but pulled back together for a HEA. I actually wanted more of this storyline, but JR Ward sealed it up beautifully and tied it with a bow by leaving it at a novella. It was simply perfect.
Je Suis a Toi
by Pepper Winters
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
Perfect ending for Q and Tess!!!!How much did I love Je Suis A Toi???? A TON!!!
I waited for this book with high hopes of Q and Tess getting everything they wanted. It did not disappoint! Hardcore Monsters in the Dark fans probably all wanted the same thing in this book and we got it! I love these two more than before. Je Suis A Toi showed an evolution of their relationship making them feel real, not just characters on the printed page. I am sad their story is over, but word is Q will make an appearance in Pepper's next series! (This ARC was kindly provided in return for an honest review.)
Lover Unbound
(Black Dagger Brotherhood Book #5)
(Black Dagger Brotherhood Book #5)
by JR Ward
4 STARS
☆☆☆☆
**Note, there are some spoilers here! I couldn't write the review without them.**
Lover Unbound had good and OK points. I was not "in love" with Vishous and Jane's story like I was with Rhage and Zsadist's books. Vishous's background was heart breaking and I definately hate his father. The dynamic between The Scribe Virgin and Vishous was surprising, enlightening and difficult at times. Then there was the conversation with Butch about their attraction and deep friendship. I enjoyed these parts of the book and felt they continued to create a more detailed world of the Brotherhood.
Now let's get to Jane. She was strong, smart, driven; all the things I craved in a book heroine. I liked her relationship with Vishous. They were obviously meant to be together and I was all for them getting a HEA. I shed big sloppy tears over her fate even though I read other reviews and knew what was going to happen. Having said that, how it ended was just OK. It was slightly odd, but this was a paranormal book so nothing was off the table. I wasn't shocked, just thought "well that is different". As long as Vishous and Jane were happy in the end, I was fine with whatever JR Ward wrote. But I am still stuck on how you have sex with a ghost!
JR Ward did an excellent job of keeping me engaged with bits and pieces of other main characters giving more insight into their lives. That helped me continue reading when I wasn't 100% into Vishous and Jane's story. Overall it was good read and integral part of the Black Dagger Brotherbook series.
Aced
by K. Bromberg
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
Aced was perfect. Just perfect. It was wonderful to see Colton and Rylee portrayed in a marriage and facing relationship struggles that married couples run into. Rylee's situation pulled at my heart strings. I understood her mind set, felt her fears and all to well understood the panic attacks she endured. The message behind the story spoke deeply to me since I had postpartum depression, too. Kristy did a superb job of portraying the struggles of a new mom as well as wove a typical "Driven" story that all of us fans crave. FIVE STARS for Aced!!!
One with You
by Sylvia Day
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
I believe this was a fitting conclusion to the love story of Gideon and Eva. Following the pattern set in book four, keeping Gideon's POV was perfect and an asset to the story. There were a few times I was tired of the psycho-babble from their therapist, but it did not detract from the plot. Most of the questions lingering from the previous books were answered to my satisfaction; mainly the big questions, some minor ones were left hanging. Overall it was a grand end to the series.
Lover Revealed
(Black Dagger Brotherhood Book #4)
(Black Dagger Brotherhood Book #4)
by JR Ward
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
I wasn't sure I would like Butch's book since he wasn't a vampire. Well, I was SOOOOO WRONG on so many levels with that assumption. Granted it took me awhile to get into the story, but once I did, it was great. Marissa and Butch were both lost souls feeling shunned by their families and lacking a sense of worth. The story truly was full of revelations for each of their lives, relationship and future. And Butch becomes a super bad-ass! And I should mention the sex scenes are HOT! Smoking hot! Plus there was more about V and his purpose to the Brotherhood. Overall, it turned out to be a great read.
Lover Awakened
(Black Dagger Brotherhood Book #3)
by JR Ward
(Black Dagger Brotherhood Book #3)
by JR Ward
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
I rank this book next to Lover Eternal in the I FLOVED it category!!! Z and Bella's story was heart wrenching, sometimes frustrating and completely redeeming. I raced through it because I had to know what happened. It is a 5 star read!!!
Lover Eternal
(Black Dagger Brotherhood Book #2)
by JR Ward
(Black Dagger Brotherhood Book #2)
by JR Ward
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
I loved, no FLOVED, this book! I couldn't put down Rhage and Mary's story. I read it in less than 24 hours and almost pulled an all-nighter. JR Ward put everything in this book that speaks to me as a reader.
Rhage, the cursed warrior, battling the beast inside him. Mary, a woman facing a life and death battle of her own that could tame the beast. And eternal love. I give it 5 Stars!!!
Dark Lover
(Black Dagger Brotherhood Book #1)
(Black Dagger Brotherhood Book #1)
by JR Ward
4.5 STARS
I started this book with some apprehension. Vampire and paranormal books are not my "go to" read. However I enjoyed the book and forgot along the way that it was paranormal. I also might be in love with Wrath and Beth. Hot alpha males, strong heroines and true love at first sight are my weaknesses. What is not to love about that combination?!?!
The one and only think I did not like about the book was how the author jumped from scene to scene without a paragraph separator, symbol, flourish or something. It was distracting and didn't help the flow of the story. It drove me crazy until I accepted that was just how the author wrote. I overlooked it once I was engrossed in the story.
Overall 4.5 stars for the book and I am starting the second book in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series now.
Off Base
by Tessa Bailey and Sophie Jordan
4 STARS
☆☆☆☆
This was my first book from both authors and it was hot, sexy and a very enjoyable read. I can't wait to read more from Tessa and Sophie.
Rock Chick
by Kristen Ashley
by Kristen Ashley
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
☆☆☆☆☆
I love, love, LOVE everything about Rock Chick, Indie, Lee, Tex, Ally, Chowlina and the whole gang! This was a funny, crazy, sexy book and I continually go back to re-read because it makes me feel good. I want to re-live my thirties and be Indie. She was carefree, head strong and independent. And Lee. Lord have mercy! How hot of an alpha male can KA create?! (Answer - whole hot gang! Swoon!) Their banter, history and chemistry were blazing, yet flirty and hilarious. Add in disco naps, rum & diet, kidnapping, tasers, drag queens, rescues, shootings, coffee-making-grizzly guy, the mob, hot cops, wacky family members and a whole lot more, just makes this book one of my Ultimate Faves! (Sigh. I really am a rock chick at heart.)
Suddenly Dirty
by JA Low
by JA Low
4 STARS
☆☆☆☆
☆☆☆☆
Great read from a new author!
For a debut novel, JA Low did a great job! Dirty talking rocker Evan and soon-to-be divorced Sienna meet under surprising, rather intimate conditions and the book takes off from there. It was out-of-the-gate hot, hot, HOT!!! The main characters had an intense chemistry and couldn’t keep away from each other, no matter how hard they tried or the fact that Evan was Sienna’s boss. But do they end up together? You better get Suddenly Dirty and find out!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Suddenly Dirty. It was a fun book. I mean, who doesn’t like a hot rocker, right?! I look forward to reading the rest of this series. (This ARC was kindly provided in return for an honest review.)
Unseen Messages
by Pepper Winters
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
First, YOU NEED THIS BOOK!!!! Period. Don't hesitate. Just one-click it and dive in.
Second, this book blew me away. Completely. Pepper snatched my heart from my chest, played with it, stomped on it a bit, shoved it back in and nursed it back to health. In other words, I felt it. Every. Single. Word.
It was not the typical dark read from Pepper. It was a beautiful, moving, angst-filled, powerful roller coaster of a ride. Pepper created soul-mates, bound together through every cursed and hopeful situation imaginable. At one point, I was a blubbering, crying mess because I was deeply invested in the characters of Estelle and Galloway. My couch was littered with tissues and my eyes were blurry as I raced to the end of their story. And it was worth every single tear I shed for them.
Having said that, it WAS a typical Pepper Winters book. The story was full of vivid emotions, slowly revealed secrets, passionate physical attractions, loving intimacy, dark foreboding, uncontrollable destiny and an all-consuming love between a man and woman. It was a phenomenal love story that stayed with me long after I finished the book.
Unseen Messages now sits on my Ultimate Book List reserved only for books that evoke the deepest of feelings. If I could give it SIX STARS, I would! (This ARC was kindly provided in return for an honest review.)
by Denise Grover Swank
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
☆☆☆☆☆
Once again Denise created a fantastic book with Center Stage. It was one those books I had to force myself to put down because it was so good! I was sucked into the story immediately. I thoroughly enjoyed entering a new character’s world and look forward to the next books in the Magnolia Steele Mystery series. Write more soon Denise!! (I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.)
Midnight Lily
by Mia Sheridan
by Mia Sheridan
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
☆☆☆☆☆
How do you write a review on a book that blew you way without spoiling it for everyone else?!?! Honestly, it is next to impossible. This book was AMAZING, but if I tell you all those parts it will give away the entire book. You MUST read it and submerge yourself into the world of Holden and Lily.
The minute I read the reference to the zodiac sign, “Virgo - Persephone, Queen of the Underworld, destined to live half her life in the darkness and half in the light”, I knew I was hooked! I was in love with this book well before the end of chapter one. I read non-stop to about 40% and I had to force myself to put it down to go back to “real life”. It was torture because I wanted to know more, to find out what was happening and to sink deeper in to the lives of the characters.
It was written with Mia’s customary flare of heart felt descriptions and emotions. As I read, I knew this book was already added to my ultimate favorite books list. She seamlessly wove the tale together, twisting and turning the story line into things I did not see coming. Darkness, light, grief, insanity, mystery, suspense, despair, joy, pain, love. It’s all there. But most of all, love. A deep, soul connecting love between two people that left me spellbound.
Mia does not disappoint with this story!!! My mind was left spinning at the end. I fact I re-read the last few chapters several times just to make sure I didn’t miss anything. So go get it NOW! You will not be disappointed!!!
(This ARC was kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.)
Fully Restored
by Delaney Williams
4 STARS
☆☆☆☆
Fully Restored was a wonderful story of a woman gaining her independence and coming into her own. I was not expecting that from the heroine Teagan at the beginning of the book. Her character rather confused me at first. She had obstacles along the way, but they made her stronger and able to stand on her own two feet. And Brock, the football hero turned felon who redeemed himself. But it wasn't easy and I didn’t like him a few times while reading. In fact there was a moment I hated him. But in the end Delaney wrote a HEA filled will some secrets and a whole lot of soul searching that turned into an enduring story. I enjoyed reading Teagan and Brock’s story very much! Great job! (I kindly received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.)
Trouble Maker
by Liliana Hart
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
This was my first Liliana Hart book and it did not disappoint! I was hesitant to start a book so far into a series, but my fears were laid to rest quickly. I instantly loved the characters of Marnie and Beckett. There wasn't just romance, but some intrigue and suspense as well that kept me engaged through the entire book. The story left me wanting to read more! Looks like I have a date with more of Lilana's McKenzie Family books! (I kindly received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.)
Secrets Don't Make Friends
by Lyla Payne
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
I started reading Secrets Don't Make Friends not expecting the wild emotions it generated. Two people from different backgrounds become roommates and frankly, didn't even like each other. One night they have a life and death incident, form a bond and that was when the story got really interesting! I gave it five stars because of the rich characters and intense story line. It was my first Lyla Payne books, but it will not be my last.
The Valentine
by Denise Grover Swank
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
The Valentine was such a great treat from Denise Grover Swank! It was a quick read yet fast paced like the full length books. Visiting Blair, Garrett and a few other familiar characters reminded me how much I loved The Wedding Pact series. I thoroughly enjoyed this! Thank you Denise for this surprise short story and creating such wonderful stories!
Sin and Suffer
by Pepper Winters
by Pepper Winters
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
☆☆☆☆☆
Ruin & Rule left me dying to know what happened with Kill and Cleo. It seemed like a lifetime waiting on Sin & Suffer! But the wait was worth it. In true Pepper Winters fashion she sprinkled in the mystery, upped the torment on the souls of the characters and left me gripping the sides of my iPad while reading furiously to reach the end. I found Kill to be much more mentally tortured in this book than the first which only attracted me more to his character. With Cleo's memory restored, she was stronger, more powerful and more determined to bring to justice those that turned her life and Kill's into a nightmare. They were a fierce pair and I LOVED that! I enjoyed every minute of both books. Great job Pepper! **I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
Love, Laughter and Legends
by Denise Grover Swank
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
What a great way to experience Denise's books! There is something here for everyone. Adult Contemporary, YA, Paranormal. All in one place wrapped up together just waiting for you. Once you start reading Denise's books you won't be able to stop!
The Raven
by Sylvain Reynard
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
I am not a fan of vampire books, but this one was very good. I love Sylvan Reynard's style of writing which allows me to overlook the vampires. It's a love story with redemption, regret, passion and some hot interactions between Raven and William. It is NOT Gabriel's Inferno, etc! But it is filled with art, history and details of Florence which continues the themes from Sylvan's previous three books. I am read for the next book now!!!
Reaper's Fall
by Joanna Wylde
4 STARS
☆☆☆☆
Another great book from Joanna! I love the world of the Reapers MC and glad Painter had a book. Reaper's Property with Horse and Marie is still my fave of the series, but this one is right up there close to it. I want more Reaper's and Silver Bastards!!!!
Coach
by Alexa Riley
3 STARS
☆☆☆
If you like possessive alpha males then give this a go. It was a quick read (117 pages) and pretty darn hot. I enjoyed it as a diversion from longer books.
Indebted #6 - Final Debt
by Pepper Winters
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
Magnificent ending to the Indebted series!
How do you condense feelings for an entire series in to one review? I knew the finale would be a roller coast ride. Pepper didn’t hold back. She gave us a proper ending to this rich tale, but didn’t make it easy along the way. The story twisted, turned and righted itself in typical Pepper fashion. I cried, smiled, raged and gasped as I read. I was wrung out, shaken, elated, soothed and utterly exhausted by the end of the book. This was not a series to simply close the book and walk away. It was timeless, gripping and engrained in my mind. I was sad to see it end, but I know I can re-visit Nila and Jethro over and over again. **I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
Indebted Epilogue
by Pepper Winters
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
A treat for all Indebted series readers!!!
I was excited Pepper created a separate epilogue for the Indebted series. It was fitting for such an incredible story! It gave me the additional scenes my mind craved to finish Jethro and Nila’s story. It answered the question of “what happened next” to all the major characters in the book. I felt satisfied and complete when I read the final words. Thank you Pepper for giving us this book! **I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
Indebted #5 - Fourth Debt
by Pepper Winters
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
Nailed it again!!! FIVE STARS!!!
How am I going to survive the wait for Final Debt?!?! Pepper nailed it again with the continuation of the Indebted series in Fourth Debt. This one was darker and harder, making me want more Hawk blood at the hands of Nila and Jethro. I am more in love with this couple and desperate for a HEA!!! Come on November so I can find out what happens!!!!!
Indebted #4 - Third Debt
by Pepper Winters
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
I am gutted, shredded, and emotionally barren. Again Pepper writes a twisted tail, takes our emotions on a wild roller coaster ride and flings us off a cliff. I need the next book NOW!!!!!!!!!
Indebted #2 - First Debt
by Pepper Winters
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
Favorite book of the Indebted series!!!
Just finished my re-read of First Debt in preparation of the release of Final Debt. I am at a loss for words. I forgot about the emotions, secrets and passion. I hi-lighted half the book because every word Pepper wrote captivated and sucked me back into the Weaver/Hawk world. This continued to be my favorite book of the series because of the development of Jethro and Nila's relationship. Walls came down and lust blazed out of control. The realization of wanting something more than debts and freedom crashed into their linked lives. Even though I knew how First Debt ended, I was hungry for more and raced to the end so I could re-read of the third book immediately. I might have re-read particular chapters three times because they were extremely hot, too!!! Second Debt re-read starting now!
Indebted #1 - Debt Inheritance
by Pepper Winters
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
by Pepper Winters
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
This started it all. Re-reading Indebted for the third time was as great as the first. I kept looking for clues that I knew Pepper put there, hinting to what would happen in the next books. Yes, I hated Jethro the first time I read this book. I know better now!
Beware it is has a cliffhanger ending, but you will WANT to read the next books!
Perfectly Imperfect
by Harper Sloan
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
It was perfect!!!
I knew the subject matter addressed in Perfectly Imperfect yet I was not prepared for the emotions it stirred up. I wasn’t sure I could mentally handle it as I read the first two chapters. It hit WAY TOO close to home on body issues and self image. I understood Willow. I felt her pain, fear and self worth issues. But that was Harper’s objective and I embraced it as I read.
And that’s when the magic began. Connection-at-first-sight. Electricity. Desire. Transformation. Strength. Willow and Kane’s story evolved into something beautiful, enlightening and up-lifting. And true to Harper’s style, there was a super hot alpha-male, steamy scenes and the soul mate connection between characters that keeps me coming back to her books over and over again. **I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
Holy hotness!!! Kristy did it again!!!
Hard Beat by K. Bromberg lived up to my expectations and more! It was exciting, steamy and so very sexy. I loved Tanner and Beaux. Everything about them from the beginning caught my attention and kept me reading. I just might need more of them! Bravo Kristy! **I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
This was my first venture into the urban paranormal fantasy type book and it did not disappoint! Vampire books are not my go to read, but this book worked for me. The strong female characters sucked me in. The suspense kept me reading because I HAD to know what happened! I am looking forward to the next book!
**I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
Another stunning story from Mia Sheridan!
Grayson and Kira. Two desperate, isolated and passionate people that had everything to lose. An impulsive business venture with the potential to solve their immediate problems bound them together in ways they never expected. And emotions, secrets and external players forced them to fight for the something unexpected….each other.
Their story pulled emotions out of me at every turn. I was either smiling or tearing up and sometimes not even knowing why! Mia wrote a beautiful story full loss and hope with vivid details that squeezed my heart to the point of breaking then mended it back together. Grayson’s Vow was another stunning book from Mia Sheridan. Her written word was magical and I could not put the book down! **I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
On my ULTIMATE FAVE series list!!!!!
It's hard for me to write reviews especially on my favorite books because I don't think I can do them justice. This series is one of my ULTIMATE faves. The series consists of Tears of Tess, Quintessentially Q and Twisted Together. Right now Pepper is writing a fourth book, Je Suis a Toi, for the series which is supposed to be a novella, but I have a feeling it will be full length. I can't wait!
How can I describe these books. Dark, erotic, haunting, captivating, AMAZING!!!! They pushed my boundaries on what I considered erotic. Yes, they are hot, but there is a love story there that sucked me in. I am so in love with Q, Tess and Pepper! I FLOVE everything this woman writes!
Smoking Hot Read! FIVE STARS!!!!
The Perfect Conclusion to The Wedding Pact Series!
I love all the books in this series by Denise Grover Swank, but The Gambler was by far my favorite. Who can resist carefree, spirited Libby and hunky Noah?! They fit so well together and I couldn’t help smile at their friendship and romantic chemistry. Their banter was hysterical! And the sexual tension was so thick a chainsaw was needed to cut it! Whew! I needed a fan and a cool drink! Throw in an off-the-wall wedding, a road trip full of odd-ball tourist attractions, two meddling grandmas, a whole bucket load of self discovery and it was the perfect story. I was sad to see the series come to a close, but the outcome was superb! It was a FIVE STAR awesome book!!! **I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
iPad throwing Five Star Book!!!
Completely. Blown. Away. Find Me was hotter and more angst filled than I ever expected. I wanted to throw my iPad about 75% into the book and curse Laurelin’s name. She shredded my heart and emotions, pieced them back together then ripped them out again! In the next breath I was crying over her awesome story, the intense love between the characters and the twists and turns that made this book amazing.
Gwen became a much stronger woman throughout the chapters. I enjoyed watching her character mature, encounter difficult situations and handle them in ways that made her grow as a person. And JC. Swoon! I fell more in love with him. He changed his life for her and worshipped the ground she walked on. He was the perfect book boyfriend (except for the moment I wanted to strangle him, but I forgave him by the end of the book). And the added bonus of more Hudson and Laynie was the best!
What a ride! Find Me was just firmly placed on my favorite book list!
Hot and Combustable!!!
I am so glad I waited to finish Free Me two days before the second book Find Me comes out. Holy moly Laurelin, but you sucked me into another story! Initially, Gwen was difficult to warm up to. She was hard, icy and I wondered how she could be likable. But past hurt and abuse shaped her life and her reactions to relationships. Slowly I warmed to her and her inner strength. I liked JC instantly, because he was HOT! But I worried how he and Gwen would relate. Then I remembered how Laurelin weaves her novels. It’s like she says “wait for it, have patience, it’s coming later.” And oh did it! JC and Gwen were combustible together. I pulled for their relationship to be more than casual sex from the very beginning. I felt Gwen needed JC. What I didn’t expect was JC to need Gwen. That just made the story even better.
With somewhat of a cliffhanger, I am ready for Find Me to release on August 24th. I have to know if JC really is what he told Gwen, will Gwen move on as she promised JC, will her father show back up and is she in any danger from JC’s associates? No doubt Laurelin will deliver in the second book as she did in Free Me.
Best book ever by Ella James!!!
Mystery. Secrets. Love. Suspense. Tortured souls. Sadness. Tenderness. Gut wrenching emotions. And yes, very hot sex. Sloth has it all! Ella’s new book takes you to many different places within its 500 pages. You won’t put the book down once you enter the lives of Cleo and Kellan. Just when you think you have them figured out, a twist or turn sends you spinning off in an unexpected direction. Your moral compass will spin. You will need a fan to cool down from the sex scenes. And a box of tissues might be required as well. Ella weaves a complex, deep and potent story, one that left me emotionally strung out at the end. Be prepared. Your book hangover is coming! Sloth isn’t just good. It’s excellent!!! **I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
Great read!
This was my first F/F book. It was very good! I liked the characters of Cari and Rory. They are believable and I wanted to know more about them when I finished the book. To me that is the mark of a great read! Thumbs up on this one L.e.!!!!!
Another great book from Denise!!!
Denise gives us the second installment to the Wedding Pact series and it doesn't disappoint! Just like The Substitute, this book was a fast paced read full of characters you fall in love with (Garrett and Blair), some you want to push off a cliff (Neil), those you already love (Megan, Josh and Libby) and the ever spunky grandmother (Nana Ruby). Even Knickers and Gram make an appearance!
I am so happy that Blair got her own book! She’s tough, ambitious and driven, but in a relationship of convenience lacking sparks and most of all love. Her wedding to Neil (aka the evil weasel) looms upon her and you can see she just doesn't have her heart in it. Enter ex-boyfriend Garrett in a “chance” meeting in Phoenix and her world suddenly gets turned upside-down. I desperately wanted Blair to give Garrett a second chance, but completely understood her reluctance. He broke her heart at a time when she needed him most.
I fell in love with Garrett instantly. Talk about being humble, knowing you screwed up in a big way yet determined enough to go get the only woman he ever loved. After five years of replaying his mistakes, Garrett’s only concern now was Blair and her happiness. Plain and simple. Talk about the perfect guy!
I do wish there were more hot scenes with Blair and Garrett. Who doesn't like some steamy sex?! However it really wasn’t needed. The story was solid and the sexual tension between Blair and Garrett was just right. But maybe Denise can give us a novella of their wedding and honeymoon (hint, hint)!
I definitely recommend The Player to anyone who likes a fun, fast read with a HEA. It left me with a “book hangover”. Now I can’t wait for Libby’s book, The Gambler! **I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
This book had it all!!!
Oh how I enjoyed this book!!!! The story of Megan and Josh is a fun, fast paced read. I kept wondering how much more craziness could be injected into their tale of the substitute groom and impending wedding. Just when I thought it would calm down there was another twist that kept me reading. I loved how there was an initial attraction between them that blossomed into more as their time together progressed. I pulled for their relationship from the very start. The book had drama, comedy, emotional revelations, mystery and some super hot sexual tension. If you want a great read, feel-good story with a HEA then this is your book!!!
I wasn't disappointed at all!
The Curse Keepers was my first attempt at reading a paranormal romance type novel. I wasn't disappointed at all! It took me two tries to get into it simply because it was different from my normal reading material. Denise did a fantastic job of weaving history with fiction and I thoroughly enjoyed the book. More Collin and Ellie for me!
And that’s when the magic began. Connection-at-first-sight. Electricity. Desire. Transformation. Strength. Willow and Kane’s story evolved into something beautiful, enlightening and up-lifting. And true to Harper’s style, there was a super hot alpha-male, steamy scenes and the soul mate connection between characters that keeps me coming back to her books over and over again. **I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
Hard Beat
by K. Bromberg
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
Holy hotness!!! Kristy did it again!!!
Hard Beat by K. Bromberg lived up to my expectations and more! It was exciting, steamy and so very sexy. I loved Tanner and Beaux. Everything about them from the beginning caught my attention and kept me reading. I just might need more of them! Bravo Kristy! **I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
Recombinant
by Shannon Mayer & Denise Grover Swank
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
Excellent Urban Fantasy Read!!!by Shannon Mayer & Denise Grover Swank
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
This was my first venture into the urban paranormal fantasy type book and it did not disappoint! Vampire books are not my go to read, but this book worked for me. The strong female characters sucked me in. The suspense kept me reading because I HAD to know what happened! I am looking forward to the next book!
**I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
Grayson's Vow
by Mia Sheridan
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
Another stunning story from Mia Sheridan!
Grayson and Kira. Two desperate, isolated and passionate people that had everything to lose. An impulsive business venture with the potential to solve their immediate problems bound them together in ways they never expected. And emotions, secrets and external players forced them to fight for the something unexpected….each other.
Their story pulled emotions out of me at every turn. I was either smiling or tearing up and sometimes not even knowing why! Mia wrote a beautiful story full loss and hope with vivid details that squeezed my heart to the point of breaking then mended it back together. Grayson’s Vow was another stunning book from Mia Sheridan. Her written word was magical and I could not put the book down! **I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
Monster In The Dark (Box Set)
by Pepper Winters
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
It's hard for me to write reviews especially on my favorite books because I don't think I can do them justice. This series is one of my ULTIMATE faves. The series consists of Tears of Tess, Quintessentially Q and Twisted Together. Right now Pepper is writing a fourth book, Je Suis a Toi, for the series which is supposed to be a novella, but I have a feeling it will be full length. I can't wait!
How can I describe these books. Dark, erotic, haunting, captivating, AMAZING!!!! They pushed my boundaries on what I considered erotic. Yes, they are hot, but there is a love story there that sucked me in. I am so in love with Q, Tess and Pepper! I FLOVE everything this woman writes!
The Rewards of Letting Go
by L.E. Chamberlin
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
The Rewards of Letting Go was the second book I have read by L. E. Chamberlin. It did not disappoint! In fact, it was even better! It was a short story, but delivered characters that I could relate to. L. E. grabbed me from the very first paragraph and kept me engaged to the point I could not put the story down until I finished it. And it was erotic and hot. Not just your normal hot. It was SMOKING HOT!!!! Fantastic job L.E.!!!
The Gambler
by Denise Grover Swank
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
The Perfect Conclusion to The Wedding Pact Series!
I love all the books in this series by Denise Grover Swank, but The Gambler was by far my favorite. Who can resist carefree, spirited Libby and hunky Noah?! They fit so well together and I couldn’t help smile at their friendship and romantic chemistry. Their banter was hysterical! And the sexual tension was so thick a chainsaw was needed to cut it! Whew! I needed a fan and a cool drink! Throw in an off-the-wall wedding, a road trip full of odd-ball tourist attractions, two meddling grandmas, a whole bucket load of self discovery and it was the perfect story. I was sad to see the series come to a close, but the outcome was superb! It was a FIVE STAR awesome book!!! **I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
Find Me
by Laurelin Paige
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
iPad throwing Five Star Book!!!
Completely. Blown. Away. Find Me was hotter and more angst filled than I ever expected. I wanted to throw my iPad about 75% into the book and curse Laurelin’s name. She shredded my heart and emotions, pieced them back together then ripped them out again! In the next breath I was crying over her awesome story, the intense love between the characters and the twists and turns that made this book amazing.
Gwen became a much stronger woman throughout the chapters. I enjoyed watching her character mature, encounter difficult situations and handle them in ways that made her grow as a person. And JC. Swoon! I fell more in love with him. He changed his life for her and worshipped the ground she walked on. He was the perfect book boyfriend (except for the moment I wanted to strangle him, but I forgave him by the end of the book). And the added bonus of more Hudson and Laynie was the best!
What a ride! Find Me was just firmly placed on my favorite book list!
Free Me
by Laurelin Paige
4 STARS
☆☆☆☆
Hot and Combustable!!!
I am so glad I waited to finish Free Me two days before the second book Find Me comes out. Holy moly Laurelin, but you sucked me into another story! Initially, Gwen was difficult to warm up to. She was hard, icy and I wondered how she could be likable. But past hurt and abuse shaped her life and her reactions to relationships. Slowly I warmed to her and her inner strength. I liked JC instantly, because he was HOT! But I worried how he and Gwen would relate. Then I remembered how Laurelin weaves her novels. It’s like she says “wait for it, have patience, it’s coming later.” And oh did it! JC and Gwen were combustible together. I pulled for their relationship to be more than casual sex from the very beginning. I felt Gwen needed JC. What I didn’t expect was JC to need Gwen. That just made the story even better.
With somewhat of a cliffhanger, I am ready for Find Me to release on August 24th. I have to know if JC really is what he told Gwen, will Gwen move on as she promised JC, will her father show back up and is she in any danger from JC’s associates? No doubt Laurelin will deliver in the second book as she did in Free Me.
Sloth
by Ella James
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
Best book ever by Ella James!!!
Mystery. Secrets. Love. Suspense. Tortured souls. Sadness. Tenderness. Gut wrenching emotions. And yes, very hot sex. Sloth has it all! Ella’s new book takes you to many different places within its 500 pages. You won’t put the book down once you enter the lives of Cleo and Kellan. Just when you think you have them figured out, a twist or turn sends you spinning off in an unexpected direction. Your moral compass will spin. You will need a fan to cool down from the sex scenes. And a box of tissues might be required as well. Ella weaves a complex, deep and potent story, one that left me emotionally strung out at the end. Be prepared. Your book hangover is coming! Sloth isn’t just good. It’s excellent!!! **I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
I Owe You One by
L. E. Chamberlin
4 STARS
☆☆☆☆
Great read!
This was my first F/F book. It was very good! I liked the characters of Cari and Rory. They are believable and I wanted to know more about them when I finished the book. To me that is the mark of a great read! Thumbs up on this one L.e.!!!!!
The Player
by Denise Grover Swank
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
Another great book from Denise!!!
Denise gives us the second installment to the Wedding Pact series and it doesn't disappoint! Just like The Substitute, this book was a fast paced read full of characters you fall in love with (Garrett and Blair), some you want to push off a cliff (Neil), those you already love (Megan, Josh and Libby) and the ever spunky grandmother (Nana Ruby). Even Knickers and Gram make an appearance!
I am so happy that Blair got her own book! She’s tough, ambitious and driven, but in a relationship of convenience lacking sparks and most of all love. Her wedding to Neil (aka the evil weasel) looms upon her and you can see she just doesn't have her heart in it. Enter ex-boyfriend Garrett in a “chance” meeting in Phoenix and her world suddenly gets turned upside-down. I desperately wanted Blair to give Garrett a second chance, but completely understood her reluctance. He broke her heart at a time when she needed him most.
I fell in love with Garrett instantly. Talk about being humble, knowing you screwed up in a big way yet determined enough to go get the only woman he ever loved. After five years of replaying his mistakes, Garrett’s only concern now was Blair and her happiness. Plain and simple. Talk about the perfect guy!
I do wish there were more hot scenes with Blair and Garrett. Who doesn't like some steamy sex?! However it really wasn’t needed. The story was solid and the sexual tension between Blair and Garrett was just right. But maybe Denise can give us a novella of their wedding and honeymoon (hint, hint)!
I definitely recommend The Player to anyone who likes a fun, fast read with a HEA. It left me with a “book hangover”. Now I can’t wait for Libby’s book, The Gambler! **I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
The Substitute
by Denise Grover Swank
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
Oh how I enjoyed this book!!!! The story of Megan and Josh is a fun, fast paced read. I kept wondering how much more craziness could be injected into their tale of the substitute groom and impending wedding. Just when I thought it would calm down there was another twist that kept me reading. I loved how there was an initial attraction between them that blossomed into more as their time together progressed. I pulled for their relationship from the very start. The book had drama, comedy, emotional revelations, mystery and some super hot sexual tension. If you want a great read, feel-good story with a HEA then this is your book!!!
This Place is Death
by Denise Grover Swank
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
Amazing!!! Oh wow!!! I have no words to describe exactly how this novella was so amazing!!! It filled in the background for The Curse Keepers. Denise's characters of Ananias and Manteo were deep, rich and believable. The story sucked me in and made me want more. On to The Curse Breakers!
The Curse Keepers
by Denise Grover Swank
5 STARS
☆☆☆☆☆
The Curse Keepers was my first attempt at reading a paranormal romance type novel. I wasn't disappointed at all! It took me two tries to get into it simply because it was different from my normal reading material. Denise did a fantastic job of weaving history with fiction and I thoroughly enjoyed the book. More Collin and Ellie for me!
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