Friday, January 31, 2014

COVER REVEAL: The Kylie Ryans Series @CaiseyQuinn

The Kylie Ryans series has all new covers! 

Custom Photography by Lauren Perry of L. Perry Designs
Book Cover Design by E.M. Tippetts Book Design
Cover Model: Teale Murdock


THE KYLIE RYANS SERIES 

A girl with a dream and a guitar...
A troubled artist struggling to hold onto his career...

What they found was each other.

Girl with Guitar

Girl on Tour

Girl in Love 
Coming February 4th! 

*Titles are also available on iTunes & Kobo. 
*Special DELUXE EDITION paperbacks with bonus content will be available for a limited time at http://www.caiseyquinnwrites.com/store.html

Want to join the Kylie Ryans Read Along Happening RIGHT NOW on Facebook? 
Click

GIVEAWAY



ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Caisey Quinn lives in Birmingham, Alabama with her husband, daughter, and other assorted animals. She is the bestselling author of the Kylie Ryans series as well as several New and Young Adult Romance novels featuring country girls finding love in unexpected places. You can find her online at www.caiseyquinnwrites.com. 

#REVIEW: The Protector @Gennita


 The Protector by Gennita Low

The start of a thrilling new trilogy featuring Jazz, a Navy SEAL who must trust a mysterious agent sent to rescue him.
Navy SEAL Jazz Zeringue was taken into custody after a covert mission went awry. He had no doubts he'd be rescued, but he was certainly surprised when his saviour turns out to be the mysterious and beautiful agent Vivi Verreau. It's obvious Vivi doesn't like him, doesn't trust him, but they'll have to work together if they're to escape from enemy territory alive.
REVIEW
Let me start off by saying I'm generally not a big fan of heavy military story lines. I was however impressed with this unique twist. As you can see the snippet above doesn't give you any hints therefore I won't ruin it for you. I will however tell you it's different from the usual save the hostages and blow stuff up story line. It's more of a everyone deserves a chance at a better life and anyone can make a difference. 
I give this book 3 chocolate dipped strawberries and a sweet hot New Orleans latte.
PEACE

Thursday, January 30, 2014

A Marked #REVIEW of @Adaline_Raine #Spanking #PNR

Marked by the Alpha by Adaline Raine made it's mark.

Dani had always been a lone wolf and she had no desire to join a pack, but that didn’t matter to a true alpha wolf like Mason Daniels. When he finds out that human hunters have been threatening Dani, he puts his mark on her.

Unfortunately, the hunters are foolish enough to disregard his mark, and Dani is captured. After Mason and his pack rescue her from certain death, Dani is given no choice about joining Mason’s pack for her own protection. She soon learns that Mason is fully prepared to spank her bare bottom as often as is necessary to teach her to respect and obey him.

With more hunters closing in and the pack under threat, Mason begins to realize that he must claim Dani as his mate for life—whether she likes it or not—before his need for her drives him mad. At the same time, she is forced to learn her role in the pack and come to terms with her instinctual need to submit to Mason as her alpha and her mate.

Publisher’s Note: Marked by the Alpha is an erotic novel that includes non-consensual spankings, anal play, graphic sexual scenes, and more. If such material offends you, please don’t buy this book.

REVIEW: Marked by the Alpha was a short novella that might've taken on too much. There just weren't enough pages - enough words - to fully evolve the story. I was left with questions about character motivation, especially as the societal norms played out in the pack. Since I couldn't understand their motivations, I never found myself connecting with Dani or Mason, or really the secondary characters. Maybe there is more to come - a future book in the series that will explain their culture more or the author will follow this trend of putting out a prequel - which might make this feel more fulfilling and satisfying. As is, it was a nice read. And, of course, the spanky scenes were sexy, sexy.

RATING: 3 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

Ultimate Indulgence BOOK #REVIEW: Reaver @LarissaIone


Reaver by Larissa Ione

 Reaver is an angel with a past, a record, and a less-than-heavenly attitude. Powerful enough to fight alongside the fiercest battle angels-and crazy enough to risk his wings on a one-way mission to hell-he's agreed to go where no angel has ever gone before...to steal the most seductive and dangerous prize of Satan himself.

ANGEL OF HELL

Harvester is one of the Fallen, a once-heroic angel who sacrificed her wings to work as an undercover agent in hell. But now her cover has been blown, and she's been doomed to an eternity of agonizing torture. Even if Reaver can snatch her away from Satan's lair, even if they can fight their way out of the underworld's darkest depths, there is one thing Harvester can never escape-her newfound thirst for an angel's blood...


REVIEW
This woman write nothing but the awesomest stuff! Turns out our Reaver is more than he seem as is Harvester. Reaver says there are two kinds of angels 1.serious 2. dour. I'm not sure that these two fit into either of these categories. When I think of all the books I've read over the years and the characters that have sacrificed there heart, pride ,life or whatever I think Harvester is the winner hands down and was willing to go unacknowledged. So what if Eidolon is unsure if he can help her with her particular brand of demonic bipolar disorder. Harvester gets my vote every time.

I give this book 5 chocolate dipped strawberries and a pot of coffee ( I want to see what Marry Poppins on an acid trip and a pot of coffee looks like).
PEACE

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Freeing Stella by @ZoeLynneBooks @HarmonyInkPress #REVIEW

Beautiful, touching, hopeful!


Freeing Stella, Zoe Lynne, Harmony Ink Press
Being True #2
Stella Marshall feels invisible to everyone but her sister Jessica and best friend Jenna. Thanks to their Friday night LGBTQ youth group meetings, she can be true to herself and cast aside the boy she was born as, Steven. The rest of the time, she locks herself away, because if her super conservative, Christian parents ever found out….

When her little sister admits to liking a girl as more than a friend, it becomes ten times harder for Stella to keep up the charade. She wants to stand by Jess and take some of the heat away, and that means coming out of the closet—even if it costs Stella her family and the girl of her dreams, Lillian Nelson. Unfortunately, it’s too frightening to give up the security of hiding behind Steven. But Stella knows she has to be brave, for herself and her sister.


REVIEW:
Once again I am  amazed at how well Ms. Lynne channels the teenage girls mind. So many times authors try to write YA and they just don't get the words or the syntax correct, but that is not the case with the books that I have read by this author.

Stella's character and her fears are so real and heart-wrenching. She is one of the strongest characters I have read, no matter her age. Her struggles maintaining "Steve" in her everyday life knowing she isn't being true to the real her are some of the most poignant scenes.  Her parent's reaction to her coming out, while difficult for me to accept, I know happens everyday somewhere in the world.

This book has some strong, supportive secondary characters that I wish every person struggling could have in their life. I also think that every high school library should carry these books; if for no other reason than to reaffirm that there are places and people out there that do care.




Buy Link:
Harmony Ink

RATING: 5 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries This book was given to us by Harmony Ink/Dreamspinner Press. Many thanks.

 

Monday, January 27, 2014

I Want More! Please, Daddy Morebucks? @NormandieA lleman #Audiobook #Review

I nearly drove off the road listening to Daddy Morebucks (Daddy's Girl #1) by Normandie Alleman on audiobook. The narrator, Alicyn Aimes, has the voice of a seductress.

From the moment she laid eyes upon him, Marley knew in her heart that James was not just another client, and the difference wasn’t even the large sum of money he offered in return for a single night of submission. No, what set him apart was the fact that when she called James “daddy”, it was her own heart which beat faster and her own body which ached with need.

After that night, Marley does her best to put all thought of him behind her, using the huge payday he provided to get on her feet again and start over… until James knocks on her door and walks right back into her life. He makes her a simple offer: if she will live with him and submit to him whenever he wishes, he will provide for her every desire.

Even before she accepts his offer, though, Marley knows what she truly wants is not money or clothing or even a fancy new car. What she longs for is a daddy who will give his little girl what she really needs… a daddy who will spank her bare bottom when she is naughty, tie her up and take her any way he pleases, and then cuddle her until she falls asleep in his arms. Can she dare to hope that James will be that daddy?

REVIEW: I'll admit that the title sounded a bit trite when I first saw it but the blurb caught my attention. I was intrigued by the story line. I've read thousands of books, from young adult to erotica, but not very many that dealt with Age Play - you know, the daddy/ little girl fantasy. And I am so glad this was one of the first because it was done in a respectful, romantic way. The concept was laid out for the reader in the context of a loving relationship and as the scenes rolled, explanations were hidden within the descriptions. The author clearly conveyed the motivations of the characters and endeared them to the reader... or uhm, the listener.

The addition of all the secondary characters, especially the Daddy's Girl Club, made me yearn for a group of friends like that. They were great and added another dimension to the story that made it seem so much more real. I wish I knew more about each of them.

I can't review this book without saying it was freaking hot. It was sexy deliciousness as the narrator brought the story to life. Each time she said "daddy" or "doll", my knees shook. Seriously, listeners will feel the emotions come through in this audiobook.

I am sold. When is the next Daddy's Girl book coming out??


STORY RATING: 5 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
NARRATION RATING: 5 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

OVERALL RATING: 5 Double-Dipped Chocolate Strawberries
This audiobook was given to us by author in exchange for a fair review. Many thanks.

Sunday, January 26, 2014

A Sweet Treat: Take Me @JulieKenner #REVIEW

Take Me (Stark Trilogy #3.5) by J. Kenner  is a sweet treat for fans of The Stark Trilogy.
For fans of Fifty Shades of Grey and Bared to You comes a fast-paced, erotic eBook novella from J. Kenner. Following The Stark Trilogy—the bestselling novels Release Me, Claim Me, and Complete Me—“Take Me” continues the story of Damien Stark and Nikki Fairchild, and introduces Evan Black, the enigmatic man at the center of J. Kenner’s upcoming novel, Wanted.

I’ve long dreamed of my fairy tale wedding, but it wasn’t until I met Damien Stark—who captured me with his kisses and undid me with his touch—that I began to believe it was my destiny. Though we both carry secrets and scars, our shared passion heals us, binding us together. We have surrendered to each other completely, and our mutual ecstasy is the brightest light in my life.

But darkness still snakes through the cracks in our armor. Ghosts from our past have moved in, bringing fresh pain that cuts deep and threatens to destroy everything we hold dear.

Damien is my anchor to this world, and I am his. But if we are going to keep each other, we have to fight the shadows of our pasts to move forward into our future.

“Take Me” is an erotic romance intended for mature audiences.

REVIEW
Sweet and spicy - readers get the best of both worlds in this novella. And it was such a treat to spend time with Nikki and Damien again as they were more settled into their life together. Also the perfect segue into the next series as we meet Evan Black. Seamlessly written and much appreciated by this Stark Trilogy fan.

RATING
5 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

Saturday, January 25, 2014

COVER REVEAL: Holding On To Hope @FatefulMercy

Holding on to Hope
AUTHOR: Sid Love
PUBLISHER: Dreamspinner Press
LENGTH: 68 Pages
RELEASE DATE: 14th February, 2014
COVER ARTIST: Paul Richmond

BLURB
Bradley Parker has waited twenty years for Mr. Right, and on Valentine’s Day, he finally finds him. It’s love at first sight, and Brad even loses his virginity to the man of his dreams. But when he wakes up the next morning unable to remember anything—even what the man looked like—his best friend, Leslie, is convinced he imagined the whole thing. Brad knows he didn’t make up the best night of his life, but he has no idea of the danger he’s putting himself in as he struggles to recall the details of his perfect man. His search may lead him to parts of New York City he never dreamed existed and a war being waged in the shadows.

AUTHOR BIO
Sid Love grew up in one of busiest cities in the world, Mumbai, listening to the excerpts of Indian epics from his father every night. While it served as an inspiration back in time, he has always had an ambitious mind. In 2007, when he had just turned sixteen, he decided that he would make his lifelong dream come true—to become a well-known, respected author some day.

Ask him and he would refuse to accept that he is obsessed with books. Or movies. Or TV shows. Addicted may even be the right word. He is a die-hard fan of Jane Austen's romance novels and loves to reread them time and again.

You can find him on Facebook or tweet him anytime, or simply e-mail him at sidlovethewriter@live.in.

Friday, January 24, 2014

Cupcakes by @seanmichael09 #REVIEW

Sweet goodness from Sean Michael!



Cupcakes, Sean Michael, Dreampsinner Press
Allen Jameson had it all—the perfect house, the perfect partner, the perfect life—until his partner, Gary, died suddenly, leaving him alone in the real world, where life isn't so pretty and people make mistakes. Now Allen is the owner of Sweet ‘n’ Sassy Cupcake Shop, a cute boutique downtown, where he invents delicious flavors like strawberry and French meringue. Between working long hours and making special orders, Allen barely has time to think.

Then a hunky contractor walks into his shop looking for a treat. Allen and Byron Bannigan are total opposites, but they're perfect together—salty and sweet like Allen’s signature peanut butter and chocolate ganache cupcakes. But as Allen struggles to juggle his business and his boyfriend, he learns he can only handle so much. He may have to choose between the cupcakes in his store and the cupcake in his bed.



REVIEW:
I dare you to read this book and not fall in love with Allen and B!

Allen had his HEA, when his partner died he wasn't looking for another; he was just trying to survive. He spends his days creating wonderful cupcakes for his friends and customers in his small shop. Until the day Byron walks in and his heart starts to beat again.

B thought all he was looking for were cupcakes for his secretary's baby shower, what he finds is Allen and if he plays his cards right; he may have just found love.

But between B’s construction company, Allen’s growing business and some shady friends coming together isn’t going to be easy.

This book took me on an emotional ride, it made me sad, and angry and happy. Not to mention flushed because when these two men come together they melt the frosting right off the cupcakes! There are an assortment of secondary characters that add to the drama and give the book it's "real" feeling.  And of course me being the series whore that I am, I am really hoping that Isaac get's a story as well.


I am a fan of Sean Michael and this story fits right into his long line of wonderful couples, with real, everyday lives who just want someone to love.

BUY LINK:
DREAMSPINNER



RATING: 5 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries.  This book was given to us by Dreamspinner. Many thanks.

 

Thursday, January 23, 2014

BOOK #REVIEW: Quintessentially Q by @PepperWinters

Quintessentially Q (Monsters in the Dark #2) by Pepper Winters battled every belief I had in humanity.

“All my life, I battled with the knowledge I was twisted… fucked up to want something so deliciously dark —wrong on so many levels. But then slave fifty-eight entered my world. Hissing, fighting, with a core of iron, she showed me an existence where two wrongs make a right."

Tess is Q’s completely. Q is Tess’s irrevocably. But now, they must learn the boundaries of their unconventional relationship, while Tess seeks vengeance on the men who sold her. Q made a blood-oath to deliver their corpses at Tess’s feet, and that’s just what he’ll do.

He may be a monster, but he’s Tess’s monster.

“You’re my obsession. I’m your possession. You own the deepest part of me. You crawled into the darkness, set my monster free. So scream, bleed, call out to me. But never say stop, never flee.”

REVIEW: Holy Hell! This story was a terrifying trip to hell and back, in the most unlikeliest of ways. Nothing about the book was predictable and I read through gritted lips as the absolute worst case scenarios played out.

Quintessentially Q was heart-wrenching, gut-clenching romance in the darkest sense. These two people's love -albeit so very different from the norm- was incredibly strong and deep. Their dark place they find with one another is a place of redemption for two floating souls... so, so beautifully overwhelming.

Yet there were so many times when I paused to question my own sanity that I understood their motives. Then there were the doubts of humanity itself at such acts as Tess endured in her captivity, acts that had me murmuring "holy shit, holy shit, holy shit" as I read. The moments between Tess and Quincy were amazing though, and the author's ability to convey their needs was nothing short of masterful. These characters got each other, were made for one another and together, they made their world make sense. I can't wait for the next book!!

Here's the line that has stayed with me since reading the final page...
"I asked you once to give me your pain as my pleasure. this time take my pain as your pleasure."
RATING: 5 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries 

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

I'm Ruined! #REVIEW of @TracyWolff BOOK

Ruined (Ethan Frost #1) by Tracy Wolff ruined me... for a full day, I couldn't clean or make dinner. I was sucked completely in to this book!

He’s the last man Chloe Girard should love . . . but the first she ever could.

Ethan Frost is a visionary, a genius, every woman’s deepest, darkest fantasy—even mine. And, somehow, I am his. He stole into my life like a dream. Turned my reality upside down and made my every desire come true—especially those I never knew I had. He demanded everything I had to give and gave me everything of himself in return.

But dreams don’t last forever, and ours is no exception. Because my nightmares are darker, and my wounds deeper, than I could ever reveal. And as much as Ethan wants to protect me, the secrets we we share will only tear us apart.

REVIEW: Ruined has the perfect ingredients for a delicious romance. Written in first-person narrative, the heroine is determined to control her future and all seems good for Chloe until she meets Ethan. Then she discovers that giving up some control has its own rewards. Beautifully told, the attraction is off-the-charts hot and doesn't feel forced despite the short time frame of their courtship. And then just when it seems things can't possibly go wrong, everything flips over and readers may be tempted to bang their heads on their books.

If you enjoy New Adult Romance -or really, if you just like a hot contemporary romance- you'll enjoy Ruined. The characters are charming, including a cast of secondary characters, and the business they're in is fascinating. The depth of the story will draw you in.

WARNING: HUGE CLIFFHANGER! Trust me, I'm checking for the next ARC in the series daily!!

RATING: 5 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
This book was provided through NetGalley. Many thanks.

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Slow Burn by @SamBMorgan # REVIEW

From Slow Burn to Scorching!


Slow Burn, Sam B. Morgan, Loose Id
Detective Douglas Brody has only ever known the life of a cop. Raised strict but fair by his police chief father, he joined the academy right out of school, climbed the ranks hard and fast, and now works homicide for the City of Charleston. The job is his entire life. For years it’s kept him happy enough to minimize the side of him that craves what he believes is wrong. An accident on the job puts him on medical leave and everything in Brody’s world changes. He has to prove himself once more to be best cop in the department, all while dealing with Zack – his persistent, sexy, and out of the closet physical therapist.

Zack is tan skin, big grins, floppy hair and tackles his job with the same full-blown enthusiasm he does everything else. When the “patient from hell” is thrown his way by another PT who can’t handle him, Zack is committed to achieving the impossible. His new patient is a head strong and hot as hell homicide detective, who oozes as much resentment as he does sex appeal. Any involvement with a patient, especially a man who is so deep in the closet he can’t see light, is something Zack swore he’d never do. But Brody slowly proves too much to resist…



REVIEW: 

YAY for another new to me author! I have read quite a few books recently with one of the MC's buried in the closet and they are never easy reads. It makes me sad to see someone go so far to not be themselves. That being said they are also some of my favorites.

Brody is an ASS! I seriously don't know how Zack kept from killing him when they first met, that man has the patience of a saint! Brody is a tough, dedicated cop so when he is hurt on the job and can't work it makes him crazy. Unfortunately for Zack, he is Brody's physical therapist and all of Brody's frustration is taken out on him. It doesn't help that Brody thinks Zack is hot as hell and he is trying to fight his attraction to him.

Zack is not going to let Brody intimidate him, so when he gets grumpy Zack pushes him harder, which is exactly what Brody needs to get him back on the job. When Brody asks for extra help getting him back to full strength Zack wants to say yes but finds it hard to fight his attraction to the man. And Zack is NOT falling for another straight man.

I had no problem connecting to both characters...yes even Brody. The story line flows and the dialog is fun and very well done. The mystery part of the story line has a great curve ball thrown in and added depth to a story that for the most part is only two characters. There is some interplay with Brody's work partner and some family drama but the bulk of the story is Brody and Zack.

I really enjoyed this story and will definitely be picking up this authors other works!



Buy Link:
LOOSE ID


RATING: 4 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries.  This book was given to us by Loose Id. Many thanks.

 

Monday, January 20, 2014

BOOK #REVIEW: Tears of Tess @PepperWinters

Tears of Tess (Monsters in the Dark #1) by Pepper Winters captured me from the very first line.

A New Adult Dark Contemporary Romance, not suitable for people sensitive to grief, slavery, and nonconsensual sex. A story about finding love in the strangest of places, a will of iron that grows from necessity, and forgiveness that may not be enough.
“My life was complete. Happy, content, everything neat and perfect.
Then it all changed.
I was sold.”
Tess Snow has everything she ever wanted: one more semester before a career in property development, a loving boyfriend, and a future dazzling bright with possibility.

For their two year anniversary, Brax surprises Tess with a romantic trip to Mexico. Sandy beaches, delicious cocktails, and soul-connecting sex set the mood for a wonderful holiday. With a full heart, and looking forward to a passion filled week, Tess is on top of the world.

But lusty paradise is shattered. Kidnapped. Drugged. Stolen. Tess is forced into a world full of darkness and terror.

Captive and alone with no savior, no lover, no faith, no future, Tess evolves from terrified girl to fierce fighter. But no matter her strength, it can’t save her from the horror of being sold.

Can Brax find Tess before she’s broken and ruined, or will Tess’s new owner change her life forever?

REVIEW: Tears of Tess captured me from the very moment I began reading. There wasn't a single moment that didn't hold my attention. It was gritty and, at times, tough to read, but it felt authentic - as if I were not reading fiction. The story was so vivid in its telling, there were times when I could hear the scary music in the background as I waited for what was to come. Then there were parts I didn't quite understand but the author made it clear by drawing a picture with her words and making me see the connectedness.

This book was masterfully written.

RATING: 5 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

Sunday, January 19, 2014

BOOK #REVIEW: One Tiny Lie by KA Tucker @kathleenatucker

One Tiny Lie (Ten Tiny Breaths #2) by K.A. Tucker topped the first book in the series.

Livie has always been the stable one of the two Cleary sisters, handling her parents' tragic death and Kacey's
self-destructive phase with strength and maturity. But underneath that exterior is a little girl hanging onto the last words her father ever spoke to her. “Make me proud,” he had said. She promised she would...and she’s done her best over the past seven years with every choice, with every word, with every action.

Livie walks into Princeton with a solid plan, and she’s dead set on delivering on it: Rock her classes, set herself up for medical school, and meet a good, respectable guy that she’s going to someday marry. What isn’t part of her plan are Jell-O shots, a lovable, party animal roommate she can’t say ‘no’ to, and Ashton, the gorgeous captain of the men’s rowing team. Definitely him. He’s an arrogant ass who makes Livie’s usually non-existent temper flare and everything she doesn’t want in a guy. Worse, he’s best friends and roommates with Connor, who happens to fits Livie’s criteria perfectly. So why does she keep thinking about Ashton?

As Livie finds herself facing mediocre grades, career aspirations she no longer thinks she can handle, and feelings for Ashton that she shouldn’t have, she’s forced to let go of her last promise to her father and, with it, the only identity that she knows.

REVIEW
This book grabbed my attention on the first page and held it to the very end. I laughed and I cried. The emotional growth of the main character, Livie, was exactly how it should be in the New Adult genre. Freshly off to college with her whole life mapped out ahead of her, Livie realizes life doesn't always have to go exactly as planned. And the road to that discovery was paved with both humorous situations and sorrow. The secondary characters -Dr. Stayner, Kacey, Reagan, Ashton- added so much to the story.

This author is a master story teller. She weaves the threads of character's lives together so that they make sense and in the end, readers have a well-rounded story with an HEA.

RATING
5 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
This book was provided to us through NetGalley. Many thanks.

Saturday, January 18, 2014

One Week, HaleStorm Book 1 @ElisabethStaab #Review

HE HAS A LEGACY TO SAVE…

Michael Hale’s company is in jeopardy. In the wake of his father’s death and transitioning to CEO, projects are circling the drain and that may cost him everything. Come to find out, the consultant hired to fix things is the “one who got away” many years ago. This time he’s playing for keeps, and he intends to win.

SHE SHOULD NEVER SAY NEVER…

Elise Jackson swore she wouldn’t come near Michael Hale again. He sucker punched her professionally, and he broke her heart. Still, a job’s a job, and they can both be adults. But high emotion and late nights working lead to passion neither of them can deny.

They have one week. Can the two of them pull Michael’s company out of the fire and heal their old wounds?


BUY LINKS: Kobo   Amazon   B&N

REVIEW:

Here's something you may already know: Elisabeth Staab knows how to write seriously good paranormal romance. Now here's something you may not know:  She writes seriously good contemporary romance as well! One Week brings the best of office romance, swirls in some bad boy gone good, some good girl gone bad and a time crunch to save the day.  It also contains some very amusing office product obsessions, witty dialogue and enough charm to have readers cheering on the hopes of happy-ever-after.

One of the best features of this sassy romantic endeavor are its characters - both primary and secondary. Elise's internal dialogue as she braves her return to the scene of her broken heart and Michael's desperate need to make a success of his late father's failing business is guaranteed to hook the reader. The chemistry between Michael and Elise fairly sizzles on the page but even more importantly, Staab manages to capture the emotional connection between these two people who have harbored an attraction for half a decade and continue to have more than their fair share of doubts and insecurities.

Heroine redeems self, saves the day and wins the guy....in a nutshell. And yet there is so much more to the story.  Well written and well paced - the story moves and has enough plot twists and turns that ensure it doesn't feel like deja vu.  And there are enough cleverly placed character introductions that, hopefully, more HaleStorm novels are on the horizon.  And did I neglect to mention seriously sexy romance - in the corporate apartment, in the office, enough to fog my glasses!

If you love your office drama with a side of smokin hot romance, order up One Week and get set to go to your happy place.  **Buy your copy now - special release week sale price**

RATING: Five Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries!  This book received an Ultimate Indulgence Award.  This book was given to us by  the author for an unbiased review.   Many thanks.



 




Friday, January 17, 2014

Fun Family Times Friday

Just when you thought doomsday was over...Centuries ago Acheron saved the human race by imprisoning an ancient evil bent on absolute destruction. Now that evil has been unleashed and it is out for revenge.

As the twin to Acheron, Styxx hasn’t always been on his brother’s side. They’ve spent more centuries going at each other’s throats than protecting their backs. Now Styxx has a chance to prove his loyalty to his brother, but only if he’s willing to trade his life and future for Acheron’s.

The Atlantean goddess of Wrath and Misery, Bethany was born to right wrongs. But it was never a task she relished. Until now. She owes Acheron a debt that she vows to repay, no matter what it takes. He will join their fellow gods in hell and nothing is going to stop her.

But things are never what they seem, and Acheron is no longer the last of his line. Styxx and Acheron must put aside their past and learn to trust each other or more will suffer.

Yet it’s hard to risk your own life for someone who once tried to take yours, even when it's your own twin, and when loyalties are skewed and no one can be trusted, not even yourself, how do you find a way back from the darkness that wants to consume the entire world? One that wants to start by devouring your very soul?



In case you're wondering YES this book was just as heart wrenching as Ash's was. The only thing that makes it better is that I liked the ending better. I have been a Styxx fan and Apollymi since the early books. I say let Apollymi out. Stuff will grow back.


My first thought was the same as it was when I first started reading Ash's book. How could parents do this to their child? As I drug my eyeballs across the pages finally the torment of his family ends and he is left to deal with eternal torment. I think Styxx's love for Beth is the most awe inspiring thing I've ever read. 11,000+ years of misery and to never love another leaves me speechless.

The light at the end of the misery tunnel finally comes on! Ash sees that he has wronged his brother for thousands of years. CONGRATS Ash! Took you long enough!


As always there were appearances from the old school crew and my fav girl Simi.

Things that I learned from Simi this time around....

1.Official motto of the Chthonians....Does not play well with others. Do mix with general population.Period

2. Stay away from "non quality peoples"

3. BBQ is a perfectly acceptable peace offering when you have accidentally ripped someones throat out.


Birthday Etiquette by Simi

1. No cake? Use Ding Dongs

2. No candles? Use the glow stick you carry in your purse. (who carries a glow stick in their purse?)

3. You so old we'd have to have a cake the size of a battleship.


I give this book 5 chocolate dipped strawberries. Even though it was agony to read I love Sherrilyn that much.

PEACE

Thursday, January 16, 2014

Torn from You @nashodarose BOOK #REVIEW

Torn from You (Tear Asunder #1) by Nashoda Rose is a complicated love story with some very dark elements.

Love is like an avalanche. It hits hard, fast and without mercy.

At least it did for me when Sculpt, the lead singer of the rock band Tear Asunder knocked me off my feet. Literally, because he’s also a fighter, illegally of course, and he taught me how to fight. He also taught me how to love and I fell hard for him. I mean the guy could do sweet, when he wasn't doing bossy, and I like sweet.

Then it all shattered.
Kidnapped. Starved. Beaten.
I was alone and fighting to survive.
When I heard Sculpt's voice, I thought he was there to save me.
I was wrong.

(It is highly recommended to read "With You" the novella first).

*Warning: This book contains some disturbing situations, strong language and sexual content. Over 18 years.

REVIEW
Torn From You read like two different stories or at least, there were distinctly two parts. Part one focused on Emily's time in captivity. Part two re-entered Emily's life two years after captivity. I agree with the recommendation to read "With You" first - it provides the background you need to connect to the couple. If you don't have this connection, you'll find it difficult to make it through the first half of Torn From You.

Then be ready for the first half of the book to be dark - disturbing and pain-filled, to be exact. Readers are immersed into a world of human slavery. A lot happens and nothing is really as it seems. You are aware of this - that there's more than meets the eye - but until the very end, readers are left as much in the dark as Emily. I had so many questions and not quite enough answers.

The characters were well done. There were some instances, particularly towards the beginning of the book where the writing seemed disjointed, but the story itself pulls you into flipping pages as fast as possible. Readers will be swept into the mystery and suspense -never knowing what's coming- much like watching a train wreck you can't stop.

Then part two comes two years later when Emily has begun putting her life back together. She's finally starting to heal when Logan rides back into her life. Now she's torn between the love she still feels for Logan and the memories of what he'd done to her. But Logan is determined she know the full story. By this point, I was going crazy to know the full story too!

When it's all laid out on the table, these two lovers find that the path to love is not always easy. This book is not a sweet love story but I enjoyed it. It was gritty and real and perhaps their love is all the more strong for the pain and struggles they went through. One thing is true: Logan never gave up on Emily even when everything else in his life was imploding.

RATING
4 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
This book was given to us through NetGalley. Many thanks.

Wednesday, January 15, 2014

Humpday Hello Cravings! @Lizeverly1 #Review #Excerpt

Greetings and salutations humpday survivors! Half way through....the week, the month, winter (ha! just checking to see if you were paying attention!) It's a doozy and we are smack in the middle of cold and dreary - the Christmas season is over and the next holiday to look forward to is a diet buster for sure. So, I propose you indulge this week - in some calorie free eye candy (yummo!) and check out this excellent series by Liz Everly which combines food, sex and adventure guaranteed to warm your toes and possibly even curl them!








Liz Everly, Cravings - Saffron Nights book 2, eKensington, November 2013


A change of scenery can unleash the wildest hunger. . .


Sanj has come to Ecuador ready to enjoy food and fun with his good friends Maeve and Jackson. Only his friends are nowhere to be found. Instead, he meets a stunningly beautiful woman who asks him for help. A man of discriminating tastes, Sanj can’t wait to enjoy her luscious lips, savor her sultry curves, and indulge in his desire for sexual ecstasy. . .

On the run from a troubled past, Sasha will do whatever is necessary to survive. That includes cozying up to the enigmatic Sanj, a darkly handsome man who seduces her like the richest chocolate. Hungry for more, she gives into the sweetest temptation, craving the feel of his hard body and longing for exquisite carnal pleasure. . .

Want more:  Excerpt here!

BUY LINKS: e-Kensington   Amazon   B&N

REVIEW:

I am seriously craving chocolate and it is all Liz Everly's fault!  Cravings is an intricately crafted confection of food, sex and intrigue.  So delicately balanced, it is hard to describe as one specific genre - it is certainly romantic suspense but with erotic content and fascinating tidbits of culinary fact and history.  I think it's safe to call it a genuinely excellent read, however.

Having read the first in the series, Saffron Nights, the further travails of Maeve and Jackson were an exciting hook.  The story of Sanj, the uber sexy Indian doctor (with a nobility secret only hinted at in this installment) and the seductive Sasha, former Dominatrix prostitute and recovering cocaine addict, may not strike you as the most likely of pairings.  Smart foodies know, however, that sweet and savory make the best combinations and Sanj and Sasha most definitely have it.  Both are consumed with finding Maeve and obsessed with the perfect chocolate - their adventures investigating both serve to push them closer together, even as their secrets threaten to destroy them.

Fast paced and well written, this book really develops some of the relationships of it's predecessor.  The sexual attraction between Sasha and Sanj is seriously off the charts and I love the devilish snippets of D/s that creep into their play.  My only complaint would be that the end felt rushed - I was so involved in the crescendo of the story that the end seemed to happen rather quickly when it all came together.  And, for those who demand the perfect ending - happy for now was perfectly acceptable in this particular case.  (I'm actually pleased that the author didn't try to force this issue - considering the pain and angst Sanj underwent with his former love interest, Jennifer. )

If you love your chocolate with your romance or your romance with your chocolate, this Cravings tale should put you in your happy place.

RATING: Five Chocolate-Dipped (no pun intended!) Strawberries!!    This book was given to us by  the author for an unbiased review.   Many thanks.



 

Tuesday, January 14, 2014

AUDIOBOOK #REVIEW: A Beautiful Wedding @JamieMcGuire

A Beautiful Wedding (Beautiful #2.5) by Jamie McGuire made for a beautiful ending.

You know that Abby Abernathy unexpectedly became Mrs. Maddox. But what do you really know?

Why did Abby pop the question?
What secrets were shared before the ceremony?
Where did they spend their wedding night?
Who else knew about it . . . and didn’t tell?

Everything about Abby and Travis’s elopement was top-secret . . . until now. Fans of Beautiful Disaster and Walking Disaster will get all of their questions answered in this whirlwind tale of the wedding day (and night!)—and as with all good stories, this one will definitely have been worth the wait.
REVIEW: This is simply a must-read if you've read the rest of the series. It's a sweet, fun ending - like the sprinkles on top of your hot fudge sundae. So often, readers miss out on seeing the couple after the HEA is resolved. With A Beautiful Wedding, readers actually take the trip down the aisle with Abby and Travis. This is a short novella fans of the Beautiful series will not want to miss.

Listening to it on audiobook made it even more fun. The narrator captured the spirit of the characters and brought out the story. Really enjoyed the audio version.

STORY RATING: 5
NARRATION RATING: 5

TOTAL RATING: 5 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

Monday, January 13, 2014

Brazen Release Day @entangledpub #excerpt #contest


New York Times bestselling author Katee Robert kicks off her new Out of Uniform series with IN BED WITH MR. WRONG, a hilarious enemies-to-lovers story you don’t want to miss. Air Force Pararescuer Ryan Flannery avoids his hometown at all costs, so he’s not thrilled when he’s set up on a blind date—until he meets mousy librarian Brianne Nave. Her sweet curves and kissable lips are a siren’s call, but her smart mouth? Not so much. How can two people have so little chemistry outside the bedroom when they fit together so perfectly in it? When Ryan and Bri are stranded in a cabin by their friends, they’ll be forced to find out…if they don’t kill each other first.




Gina L. Maxwell comes out swinging with the latest installment of her New York Times bestselling Fighting for Love series, FIGHTING FOR IRISH. When he learns a friend’s sister has forty-eight hours to make good on an ex’s debt to a crime boss, former MMA fighter Aiden "Irish" O'Brien heads to Louisiana to offer himself up as collateral. But to satisfy the debt, he has to do the one thing he swore he’d never do again: fight. With more than just money on the line, can Irish reclaim the man he once was for the woman he can't live without?




The dynamic duo took the NYT and USA TODAY lists by storm the last time they released together, so we can't wait to see what shenanigans they have in store for 2014!




Excerpt: In Bed with Mr. Wrong by Katee Robert

“Don’t think for a second you’re getting a good-night kiss.”

“A kiss from you?” He stepped forward into her finger, forcing her to open her hand against his chest or take a step back. She refused to budge. He leaned down, crowding her. “I’d rather kiss a snake.”

“Then it’s too bad it’s winter, because they’re in short supply.” She pushed at his chest again, nearly snarling when he didn’t move. “You should just burn something else down. That might draw a few to the heat.”

“Or maybe I’ll just set fire to your goddamn granny panties. That’s sure to create a big enough blaze.”

Her jaw dropped open and she swallowed hard. “As if you could.”

“Watch me.”

He grabbed her hips and yanked her against him. Bri gasped. There was so much heat in his blue eyes, it was a wonder every single article of clothing she wore didn’t go up in smoke. “You—”

But then she saw it. The challenge hidden behind the heat. He didn’t think she could handle this. Handle him.
His mouth curled into a smirk, and his hands tightened on her hips. The feel of his fingers digging into her flesh through the thin fabric of her skirt made her want to throw all caution to the wind. He thought he’d won, did he?

“Screw it.” She grabbed the lapels of his shirt and went up on her tiptoes to smash her lips against his. He froze, then stumbled backward and slammed into the wall of her screened porch, taking her with him. A wave of victory went through her. For all his talk, he hadn’t expected her to make a move. She moved one hand to the back of his neck and tipped his head down so she could set her teeth into his bottom lip.

Just like that, he came alive in her arms and pulled her tighter against him. His tongue delved into her mouth, stroking hers with no hesitation, igniting her passion until she couldn’t fight back a moan. How could one giant brute taste so decadent? She slid her tongue along his, not sure if she was searching for an answer or simply enjoying the way her very nerves seemed to spark and dance at every place they touched.

Would her whole body do that if they were naked?

Whoa. Where had that thought come from? She was proving him wrong, not jumping into bed with the man. She tried to pull away. “I think—”

“Stop talking.”

Keep reading: AMZ   B&N  Kobo   iTunes


Excerpt: Fighting For Irish by Gina Maxwell

Aiden dropped his hands to her hips and stepped closer. “Will you stay tonight?” he asked softly.

“I’ll stay.”

One night. He could do that, couldn’t he? Then he could get this need for her out of his system and focus on winning the tournament to free her from any danger. His job would be done, his debt paid to Jax, and he could move back home to continue his daily penance and meaningless existence.

But right now he wanted to feel alive again, if only for a night in the arms of the woman who’d had his balls on lockdown for months. She was the reason no one else even appealed to him anymore. He needed her, just this once. But he wouldn’t do it without an understanding between them.

“Kat, can I be honest with you?” Aiden was aware of the fine line he was walking. Now he just had to do it without sounding crude or disrespectful, which would be a challenge. He was no smooth-talking Romeo.

Meeting her expectant gaze, he took a deep breath and prepared himself for the possibility of getting slapped. “I wanna be with you tonight.”

“As in, with me with me?”

“Yeah,” he said, amusement lifting a corner of his mouth. “With you with you. It’s been a really long time since I wanted someone as much I want you.”

“Really?” she asked breathlessly.

“You sound surprised.”

She offered a weak shrug and suddenly found interest in the floorboards. “You seem like you’d be more into exciting, exotic looking women. Like one of those sexy, new-age pin-up girls with the flawless skin and beautiful tattoos.”

He almost laughed until he realized she was serious. She had no idea what she did to him. Grabbing one of her hands still resting on his shoulder, he slowly dragged it over his chest and down his stomach until they finally reached his stiff erection straining against the restrictive boxer briefs under his shorts.

Aiden groaned as he molded her hand over his cock. The feel of her gripping him nearly redefined the word “premature.” She drew in a quick breath and raised her eyes to his. Her cheeks filling with a pretty shade of pink did crazy things to his insides. The more her innocence showed through the more he wanted her.

He couldn’t make sense of it. She was right. Typically he went for the larger-than-life women who treated every day like it was their own personal thrill ride. Kat was something else entirely. Worldly beyond her years, yet somehow more innocent than she should be.

“This is how into you I am, sweetheart. Believe me when I tell you I couldn’t fake this kind of interest,” he assured her. “I want you, Kat. Wicked bad. But I don’t have anything more to offer you than one night. That’s me being honest. So if you wanna give me the red light now I’ll understand, but you gotta let me know while I still have use of some of my brain.”

“Green.”

Keep reading: AMZ  B&N  Kobo  iTunes


Rafflecopter Giveaway:





Sunday, January 12, 2014

#REVIEW: Broken World @LizzyFord2010

Broken World (#2, Broken Beauty Novellas) by Chloe Adams follows the dramatic story of a young girl in unspeakable circumstances.

A confrontation is brewing …

Mia realizes the aftermath of her rape is not over when she is rocked by another challenge, one that will put her publicly at odds with her father, a U.S. Senator who has made her the poster child for his re-election. But the public face he wants her to wear can’t be further from who she is inside. 

The latest rape victim is expected to die soon, and only Mia can identify the attackers. With pressure from the police to come forward, Mia is distraught when her father forbids her from speaking out.

She is surprised to discover new allies in her siblings, who break ranks with her father to support her. But even they have their own agenda.

Before Mia turns eighteen, she’ll face the ultimate choice: betraying her family or her conscience.

REVIEW
This series is powerful. It's written in short novellas - like pieces of cheesecake... you eat one and wish you could eat more but need time to digest this one first - and it's the perfect way to present this story. Since it deals with the serious subject of rape, it could be a trigger for some survivors. However, it's written with utmost care and accuracy. There is no sugar-coating the realities.

In Broken World, the second book in the Broken Beauty series, Mia is moving along in her healing. Readers are thrust into her horrible reality as she rebuilds herself. The writing is spot-on - you feel what this character feels. Definitely more uplifting than the first book but equally emotional, this book layers the story and characters, giving deeper perspectives, which draws readers further into the story.

So, I'm letting this digest now while I clear my plate and wait patiently for the next piece... umh, I mean, the next novella.

RATING
5 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

It feels odd to say such a dramatic story is an indulgence but I mean that it completely draws you in, much like any indulgence. If you like angst with a side of romance, this is for you. Enjoy!

Saturday, January 11, 2014

Old Loyalty, New Love by Mary Calmes #REVIEW

Quintessential Mary Calmes!



Old Loyalty, New Love, Mary Calmes, Dreamspinner Press
When jackal shifter Quade Danas was banished from his pack for being gay, he spent years in the military escaping his father's prejudice before returning to civilian life as a bodyguard for Roman Howell, the teenage son of a very rich man. After Roman is in an accident that leaves him physically scarred and emotionally distant, Quade is the only one who can get through to him. As Roman becomes a man, he realizes what he wants—his bodyguard by his side and in his bed. Unfortunately, Quade can’t seem to see past the kid Roman once was to the man he has become, certain Roman’s feelings are merely misplaced gratitude. But Roman knows a lot more than Quade realizes, and he’s used to persevering, no matter how many impediments life throws his way. He wants the chance to prove to Quade that he’s strong enough for a jackal alpha to call mate.

Despite the decades Quade has been away, and the heartache of his father’s rejection, his inborn loyalty to the pack remains, and his abrupt departure left the jackal shifters without an alpha heir. As a psychopath shifter staking claim as alpha draws Quade back home, and Quade feels compelled to heed the call, he may be forced to make a choice he never anticipated. But doing so means he must leave Roman behind… unless somehow they find a way to make loyalty and love work together.



REVIEW:
I chose this book because of the blurb  but I had no idea the complexity of the story that I was about to dive into. There are three strong story lines that could have been books in their own right:
 - Roman's accident and subsequent struggles to heal and re-enter his life
 -  Quade's back story and resolution
 - The pack story line.
I was amazed at the amount of information and the incredible way that Ms. Calmes wove them together.

Quade  is an Uber-Alpha, but has cut himself off from his family because of their rejection of him for being gay. He hasn't been home or spoken to anyone in his pack for almost 30 years. Then after a bad end to a relationship he moved on again until he ended up at the Howell's as their sons bodyguard. He has a habit of running instead of fighting back, but that's all about to change when the fight is brought to him.

Roman has been through Hell and survived, so he is not going to let  little things like age or the word no keep him from what he wants. And what he wants is Quade! He will fight whatever and whoever, even Quade himself, to get the life that he deserves.

I loved the little town that this story is set in and the people in it really added to the story's appeal. As with most of Calmes work the main characters are engaging and likeable with strong secondary characters who you know have stories of their own that are just waiting to be told. I hope there will be more tales set in this world because I really want to know more about the horse, damn it!

There is quirkiness and humor, fights and assholes, love and healing... it's pretty much got the whole package. You will walk away feeling like a part of the story and wanting to know what happens next and for me that's what makes a great book.




BUY LINK:
Dreamspinner Press



RATING: 5 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries.  This book was given to us by Dreamspinner Press.  Many thanks.
Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...

NDULGE in Audiobooks

Aphrodite's Kiss
Like Honey
Blindness
Lifers
Given
Tease Me
Uncovering You: The Contract
Breathe Into Me
Deception
Promiscuous
Before You Break
When You're Ready
The Hazards of Skinny Dipping
The Rise of the Hotel Dumort
Being Chase
Misappropriate
Misled
Misled
The Amazon's Curse
Night Games


Ndulgent Bloggers's favorite books »