Friday, February 28, 2014

Flying Vase Friday

Blind Attraction by Eden Summers
He can seduce with a single glance. 
Peering down at a sea of fans, rock star, Mitchell Davies can’t deny the innocent beauty of a woman in the front row. He’ll stop at nothing to get to know her. When a public altercation leaves her weak and defenseless, he takes the opportunity to be her savior.

She’s been sheltered from the world.
Alana Shelton wants to spread her wings and experience life away from her restrictive upbringing. But she isn’t prepared for a gorgeous stranger to sweep her off her feet while at her most vulnerable.
Attraction will bring them together, but their pasts will try to tear them apart.
He wants to teach her how to trust, but she’ll show him how to love. In a glamorous world of rock-and-roll, only time will tell if they’re up for the challenge.




This book put a smile on my face:) It's the exact kind of book I would be laying out in the sun with and considering the weather of late I could use a smile. It's the perfect length (what I call a quickie). I enjoyed the setting. I haven't read a rock star meets his happily ever after in a long time. The story moves along quickly but all the important stuff gets covered and there is room for a little back story as well. So whether you're trapped inside during a blizzard or like me and counting the days till you can get in the sun this book is a great way to pass the time.




I give this book 4 chocolate dipped strawberries and something other than a purple t shirt to wear to a concert.

PEACE


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Thursday, February 27, 2014

My Heart Beats A RECKLESS BEAT @EdenSummers1 #REVIEW & #GIVEAWAY!

Blind Attraction (Reckless Beat #1) by Eden Summers will seduce you in a single page.


Peering down at a sea of fans, rock star, Mitchell Davies can’t deny the innocent beauty of a woman in the front row. He’ll stop at nothing to get to know her. When a public altercation leaves her weak and defenseless, he takes the opportunity to be her savior.


She’s been sheltered from the world. Alana Shelton wants to spread her wings and experience life away from her restrictive upbringing. But she isn’t prepared for a gorgeous stranger to sweep her off her feet while at her most vulnerable.

Attraction will bring them together, but their pasts will try to tear them apart. He wants to teach her how to trust, but she’ll show him how to love. In a glamorous world of rock-and-roll, only time will tell if they’re up for the challenge.

REVIEW
On the tame side for rock star romances, Blind Side is an amazingly sweet love story with endearing characters and, of course, the sexy rock stars. I quickly connected to the characters and was surprised when Mitch proved to be the character with more issues. Despite Alanna's unusual upbringing, she's willing to take risks and is stronger than one might first think. Their developing relationship is nice.

Through the story, all of the band members are introduced. Though they're strong secondary characters, I'm betting they'll male even better main characters when (fingers crossed) they get their own books. Since I've come to like Summers writing style, I'll be following the series. Rock on!



RATING
4 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
This book was given to us by the author. Many thanks.

CONTEST
ENTER THE RAFFLECOPTER for a Chance to Win this Swag Pack!


It's Release Day! Hazard of a One Night Stand @AlyssaRoseIvy or @InkSlingerPR

HOAONS Teaser 4

We're so excited that Alyssa Rose Ivy's THE HAZARDS OF A ONE NIGHT STAND, a New Adult Contemporary Romance, is being released TODAY! It's a part of Alyssa Rose Ivy’s Hazards Series and it is priced at just $.99 right now. This will last for a limited time only to celebrate the release!


The Hazards of a One Night Stand Cover
THE HAZARDS OF A ONE NIGHT STAND
Synopsis:
One small town boy, one girl who wants more, one roll in the hay... Hooking up with your high school crush is a bad idea, a really bad idea. It was only supposed to be one night, one brief departure from my real life, but nothing ever works out exactly the way you plan. Colton Waters was everything from my past that didn't fit into my present, so why did he have to show up at my college and pledge the one frat I couldn't avoid? Because nothing is ever meant to happen just once. At least not the life changing things that mean the difference between falling apart and falling in love.

EXCERPT: 
Colt wrapped an arm around my waist and pulled me closer. “No. I’d rather bother you.” There was something kind of sexy about the motion, something more confident than his usual goofy flirting. His hand felt nice resting on my hip, so I let it stay. Was this really the same Colt? Since when did his touch have that kind of effect on me? “When did you get back to town?” “About two hours ago.” “You didn’t wait long to come out.” I took a big sip of the drink. It was starting to taste a lot better. “I took time for a shower.” “That was thoughtful of you.” “Planning on getting close to me tonight?” He watched me intently. “Maybe.” The flirtatious word flew out of my mouth without me realizing it. The alcohol and that smile of his was making me forget where I was. “Sorry.” “Why are you sorry?” He moved his hand, turning me and wrapping his other arm around me so my body was pressed against his. “Colton…” “Mallory…” I laughed. “What are you doing?” “What am I doing? You’re the one telling me you might be getting close to me tonight.” His hand slid down slightly, settling below my hip. His touch felt so good. “Your birthday passed, right? You’re nineteen now?” He laughed that deep, throaty laugh of his. “I’m going to take it as a good sign that you’re checking to make sure I’m old enough.” “I’m not supposed to be into younger guys.” “I’m three months younger than you. I can’t help that my parents held me back a grade.” He leaned back against an old oak tree, pulling me along with him. The motion had me leaning into his chest. “You’ve gotten hotter.” I couldn’t believe I’d said the words out loud. I also couldn’t believe I was thinking about Colton that way again. He laughed once more. “So have you, although I wouldn’t have thought it was possible.” I took another sip of my drink. “When did you get this cute?” “Are you implying you haven’t been ready to jump me for the last five years?” “I’ve never thought about it before tonight.” The words weren’t exactly true, but I hadn’t thought about it in a while. “But you are thinking about it now?” He grinned, moving his hands even lower so they cradled my ass. “Maybe.” His hands sent a thrill through me, reminding me of just how long it had been since a guy had touched me that way. “That’s the second maybe you’ve given me. How am I supposed to make that into a yes?” He took the bottle from my hand and dropped it down on the ground next to his empty cup. The remaining liquid seeped out onto the dirt. “I don’t know. It’s your job to figure that out.” I ran my now free hand down his chest. It was firmer and more muscular than I expected. “My job, huh? I like the sound of that.” His lips tickled my ear. “I like the sound of anything involving you.” He took my hand and led me further into the grouping of trees. It wasn’t a dense forest or anything, but I knew he was looking for privacy. I didn’t object when he gently leaned me back into another tree. I closed my eyes, ready to feel his lips and hands on my body. I was horrible at knowing what to do in those situations. I needed the guy to take control. His lips brushed against mine as he rested his hand on my stomach. He slipped a few fingers underneath my shirt. “Am I earning a yes, or do I have more work to do?” he whispered with his lips right next to mine. “You have more work.” I kept my eyes closed, taking in a breath as his hand moved further up my shirt.
Buy Links: 

HOAONS Teaser 1

Alyssa Rose Ivy
Alyssa Rose Ivy- Author PhotoAuthor Bio:
Alyssa Rose Ivy is a New Adult and Young Adult author who loves to weave stories with romance and a southern setting. Although raised in the New York area, she fell in love with the South after moving to New Orleans for college. After years as a perpetual student, she turned back to her creative side and decided to write. She lives in North Carolina with her husband and two young children, and she can usually be found with a cup of coffee in her hand.
Author Links:
Twitter  |  Facebook  |  Goodreads  |  Pinterest  |  Website 



Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Cover Reveal! #FindingMyWay @HeidiJoVT

COVER REVEAL!
Finding My Way by Heidi McLaughlin
Coming April 2014
New Adult Contemporary Romance
The Beaumont Series, #4

BOOK SUMMARY
Liam Westbury has the world at his feet. He’s the quintessential golden boy. He’s the superstar quarterback for Beaumont High. His girl, Josie, is head cheerleader. He has his choice of colleges just waiting for him. Except he’s suffocating from all the pressure he’s under and no one understands.

Liam Page is the heartthrob he never wanted to be. He’s successful, smart and in demand by record companies and his adoring fans. Music is his passion, his love, but something’s missing. His nights are lonely and he longs for the girl he left behind. Seeing her in every face in the crowd haunts him with the knowledge that she hates him. Going home has never been an option until now.

Be there when Liam Westbury becomes Liam Page and follow the highs and lows of the Quarterback turned Rockstar as he finds a way back to Beaumont in this prequel to Forever My Girl.

Author Information
Heidi is the author of USA Today, Digital Book World, Amazon and Barnes & Noble Bestselling novel, Forever My Girl.

Originally from the Pacific Northwest, she now lives in picturesque Vermont, with her husband and two daughters. Also renting space in their home is an over-hyper Beagle/Jack Russell and two Parakeets.

During the day Heidi is behind a desk talking about Land Use. At night, she's writing one of the many stories planned for release or sitting court-side during either daughter's basketball games.

Author Links
Website: http://heidimclaughlin.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeidiMcLaughlinAuthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeidiJoVT
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6568302.Heidi_McLaughlin


GIVEAWAY
50 winners will receive a signed bookmark and card. International.

Humpday Hello - Blind Attraction @edensummers1 #REVIEW

Greetings and salutations Humpday survivors!  Last one in the looooongest month of the year - bring on March, bring on Spring, bring on the month of birthdays (Ok, at least three of the Indulgent Bloggers have March birthdays so bear with us - it means lots of wine and ebook gift cards which entertains us and gives you all more fodder for your TBR piles!  Win-Win!!)

How's about a snack on some eye candy before we get down to more of our book club selection for February, Ms. Eden Summers' Blind Attraction.  Bad boys and Rock gods all rolled into one - Yummmmm-o!


Please remember to comment each day this week to be entered for a lovely prize pack from the author!!


Bad Boy Rocker and the Innocent Damsel in Distress.

Blind Attraction, Eden Summers
Reckless Beat #1

He can seduce with a single glance.
Peering down at a sea of fans, rock star, Mitchell Davies can’t deny the innocent beauty of a woman in the front row. He’ll stop at nothing to get to know her. When a public altercation leaves her weak and defenseless, he takes the opportunity to be her savior.

She’s been sheltered from the world. 

Alana Shelton wants to spread her wings and experience life away from her restrictive upbringing. But she isn’t prepared for a gorgeous stranger to sweep her off her feet while at her most vulnerable. 

Attraction will bring them together, but their pasts will try to tear them apart. 
He wants to teach her how to trust, but she’ll show him how to love. In a glamorous world of rock-and-roll, only time will tell if they’re up for the challenge.


REVIEW:
Blind Attraction kicks off a headlining tour of what promises to be a great series.  Well written and cleverly crafted plot twists keep this from being just another rocker fantasy.  On second thought, this could be the perfect rocker fantasy and more.  Few gals haven't wondered "what would happen if" when they listen to the dreamy voices and sexy lyrics of their fav fellas on stage. But Ms. Summers takes that "what if" and spins a tale that has the reader turning pages just to keep up with the wild world of those Reckless Beat boys and the girls who love them.

Mitchell spies Alana.  He wants her, has to have her.  She's shy, sheltered, sexually unschooled. He's challenged, captivated and completely consumed.  Along the way, there's humor, tragedy, action, romance, insane chemistry and smokin hot sex.  It's like the culmination of all the songs on an album - moments of every element that come together to create an overall smash hit.   Most importantly, for this reader, was the unexpected element of fun - this was a fun read.  Sure there were moments here an there, but the primary and secondary characters were highly enjoyable, with unique quirks and voices that made them multi-dimensional and genuinely real.   

The other bookclubbers highly endorsed this read and I was lagging behind.  Truthfully, I was afraid this would be a bit of fluff and have no substance (not that I require that, because folks know I like my brain candy).  I truly enjoyed Blind Attraction once I got started.  The pace moves quickly and stays pretty consistent.  The attraction and chemistry  between Alana and Mitch sizzles like rain on a summer pavement.  Mostly, I like the feeling that more Reckless Beat stories are out there waiting to happen - Summers lays down some tracks in her plot that tease the reader with what, I only hope, will be additional books to tantalize her readers.

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


CONTEST:



About the author:

Eden Summers is a true blue Aussie, living in regional New South Wales with her two energetic young boys and a quick witted husband.


In late 2010, Eden’s romance obsession could no longer be sated by reading alone, so she decided to give voice to the sexy men and sassy women in her mind.

Eden can’t resist alpha dominance, dark features and sarcasm in her fictional heroes and loves a strong heroine who knows when to bite her tongue but also serves retribution with a feminine smile on her face.

   

Tuesday, February 25, 2014

Blind Attraction by @EdenSummers1 #REVIEW

Bad Boy Rocker and the Innocent Damsel in Distress.

Blind Attraction, Eden Summers
Reckless Beat #1

He can seduce with a single glance.
Peering down at a sea of fans, rock star, Mitchell Davies can’t deny the innocent beauty of a woman in the front row. He’ll stop at nothing to get to know her. When a public altercation leaves her weak and defenseless, he takes the opportunity to be her savior.
She’s been sheltered from the world.
Alana Shelton wants to spread her wings and experience life away from her restrictive upbringing. But she isn’t prepared for a gorgeous stranger to sweep her off her feet while at her most vulnerable.
Attraction will bring them together, but their pasts will try to tear them apart.
He wants to teach her how to trust, but she’ll show him how to love. In a glamorous world of rock-and-roll, only time will tell if they’re up for the challenge.


REVIEW:
Mitch Davies is the lead guitarist for Reckless Beat and can have and has had any woman he wants. But life on and road and nameless groupie after nameless groupie is starting to get old.Then he spots Alana in the front row of his show and he can't stop staring. The brunette beauty captures his attention like no other.

To say that Alana has lived a sheltered life would be an understatement. So how she ended up in the front row of a Reckless Beat concert is a question she is still asking herself. But the attraction she feels for the guitarist who won't stop staring at her is going to have her breaking all of her rules.

I was very excited to read this book and was pulled into the story fairly quickly. The attraction and chemistry  between Alana and Mitch is undeniable. The camaraderie between band mates and their willingness to call each other on their shit, while also supporting each other read very true for me. There were some continuity issues in the story and some things that were really left unsettled that I hope are addressed in coming books. I think Blake was my favorite character and I really hope he gets his HEA.


About the author:
Eden Summers is a true blue Aussie, living in regional New South Wales with her two energetic young boys and a quick witted husband.
In late 2010, Eden’s romance obsession could no longer be sated by reading alone, so she decided to give voice to the sexy men and sassy women in her mind.
Eden can’t resist alpha dominance, dark features and sarcasm in her fictional heroes and loves a strong heroine who knows when to bite her tongue but also serves retribution with a feminine smile on her face.



CONTEST:


RATING: 3.5 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries. 
This book was given to us by the author. Many thanks.
 

Monday, February 24, 2014

#REVIEW: Incidental Contact @EdenConnor

Incidental Contact (Devilish De Marco Men #3) by Eden Connor is just as good as the first two books in the series.

What if a random kiss with the wrong woman feels like more than incidental contact? What if you sense every mistake brought you to this place, with this person? What if you know you'll have to clean up your bad-boy past and can't offer her much of a future, but you're determined to win her heart? What if you're also having...performance issues? Welcome to Eric De Marco's world. First person to say 'go hard or go home' gets his ass kicked.

REVIEW
I enjoy Eden Connor's voice. Each of the books in this series have felt welcoming, as if the characters are real people I'd like to meet. Don't get me wrong, there are always flaws but they are still highly likable. There were laugh-aloud moments, nail-biting moments and, of course, some sizzling delicious sex scenes. The plot is tightly woven and the author has you guessing who done it. But for me, it all comes back to the comfort I feel while reading this series. I find myself smiling and feeling happy. And sometimes everyone needs books like this.

I recommend the entire series - start with book one and enjoy all those Devilish DeMarco Men!

RATING
4 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
This book was given to us by the author through NetGalley.

Sunday, February 23, 2014

Series #REVIEW: Waiting On The Sidelines @TheGingerScott

Waiting on the Sidelines (Waiting on the Sidelines #1) by Ginger Scott 

Nolan Lennox had things figured out. Named after a baseball legend, she enjoyed being the Tomboy, her closet filled with her brother’s hand-me-downs, cut-off jeans and soccer shorts. But when her first trip to high school results in a broken heart from the first boy to ever make her heart flutter and cruel words from an older girl she once thought a family friend, Nolan starts to question the very person she thought she was and wonders if her humble upbringing can compete with the afforded luxuries of her privileged peers.

Throughout the next four years, Nolan struggles to maintain herself throughout her path of discovery, learning just how cruel teenagers can be through the pressures of underage drinking, sexuality and class. And despite how life seems to continue to work against her, she still manages to listen to her heart, falling deeper and deeper for the guy the entire town adores, even if he only sees her as a friend. Can Nolan strike a compromise between her own integrity and the boy she loves? And can she make him notice her before it’s too late?

Reed Johnson came to Coolidge High School with a lot of fanfare. The son of a hometown football legend and the brother of a local football hero, Reed wore all the pressures of carrying a town without hope into the spotlight. Thankfully, he had the talent to back it up. But when he meets a girl who makes him think twice about exactly what being a hero means, he starts to wonder if following in his brother’s footsteps might be all wrong.

Nolan Lennox was everything that was opposite of expected. She didn’t flirt, she didn’t drink and she didn’t sleep around. Nothing about her was easy, but something about her made Reed want to try harder. Though she didn’t look the part, she seemed to be spending a lot of time in Reed’s thoughts, and he wondered if she could be the one who made it all worthwhile. But could Reed handle letting her down? And would breaking her heart break him beyond repair?

REVIEW
Waiting on the Sidelines explores young love to its fullest, exposing how real young heartbreak and passion is and how important it is to discover yourself and hold onto your own identity. The story follows two young characters as they deal with mature situations, including the prevalence of bullying and promiscuity in today’s high school setting. Ultimately, Waiting on the Sidelines is a story of hope, honesty and those powerful, first true loves—the ones worth holding onto at any cost.

A coming-of-age novel by a debut author that doesn't disappoint. Though a bit of a sleeper start, the foundation is laid out honestly for readers as we embark on the love story of Nolan and Reed. It's not over angsty but deals with realistic situations in a straightforward manner.  Incorporating their families and friends built a complex world that established the motivations for their actions. I knew I was completely taken with the couple when I had to read the next book right away.

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

________________________________________________________

Going Long (Waiting on the Sidelines #2) by Ginger Scott

They fell in love in high school and found their way back to one another despite the odds. But can first loves really be forever? For Reed Johnson, the dream was always football. But then Nolan Lennox took over his heart. Is he willing to give up his first love just to keep his true love? Or will he be too late?

Reed and Nolan’s story continues in "Going Long," sequel to "Waiting on the Sidelines."

REVIEW
I picked up this second book in the series the very next morning after finishing book one. If you haven't read Waiting on the Sidelines, you must read that book first! 

While I enjoyed meeting Nolan and Reed in book one, I completely fell in love with them in this book. The maturity of their decisions -despite their communication problems- was affirming. The author showed the growth in her characters as they moved on to college, each independent in their own pursuits while still finding a place for their relationship. They struggled and there was no unrealistically easy solutions as they faced life's trials. Both characters were resilient and would serve as strong role models for young adults.

So, while I enjoyed the first book, it was truly the second book that drew me in and made it all seem so very perfect. Nolan and Reed have a fan in me. And I was so pleased with the epilogue.

RATING
5 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
This book was given to us by the author through NetGalley. Many thanks.

Saturday, February 22, 2014

RELEASE BLITZ! The Bomb @JAHuss

BOMB by J.A. Huss
(Rook and Ronin Spinoff)
Publication date: February 17th 2014
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance

BLURB
Spencer Shrike is a plotter. Known for his ingenious, albeit illegal, plans that keeps the Team running efficiently and out of jail, he carries this same love of order into his personal life. He’s kept his long-time main squeeze on the sidelines for years as he builds the Shrike Bikes empire.

Veronica Vaughn is an explosion ready to happen. Ronnie lives in the here and now. She lives for today. She knows what she wants, and she wants it now. And right now Ron the Bomb Vaughn wants Spencer shrike to leave her the hell alone. She’s done playing his game. She’s done waiting around. She’s moving forward with her own plots, plans, and dreams and she’s moving forward tonight. Ron the Bomb is finally—finally—gonna get some satisfaction.

Too bad Spencer Shrike is standing in her way.



EXCERPT

“Do you want me to stop, Ronnie?”
Veronica hesitates and I pull back, but her hands grab mine and hold them to her body, tightly. “No, I don’t want you to stop.” She looks over her shoulder at me, her mouth open, her chest rising and falling faster than it was a few seconds ago.
I lean into her neck and kiss the soft skin, right under her ear.
She shudders.
“Oh, hell,” she sighs. “Maybe you should stop.”
I pull back immediately. “I will if you really want me to. But Veronica—” I reach up to turn her chin towards me. She has to reposition herself a little to look me in the eye. “Don’t say no because it’s expected of you. Or because you’re afraid I might hurt you. Or because it’s too soon. Because you’re mine, baby. I knew the moment I saw you last week, outside the bookstore having it out with your brother over something. I watched you stand your ground and toss your hair at the same time. And I told myself, She’s mine. I need her. I don’t know her, but I will. And now I do. And I want you. Not just for tonight, not for just a weekend, not for just this semester to pass the time, not just to get some kickass ink on my body. I want you for all those things, but I want them indefinitely.”
She lets out a long breath. “Holy shit, that’s sorta deep. What’s that even mean? Indefinitely?”
“It means I’m here, for as long as you want me.”
“But you don’t even know me, Spencer.”
“I’ve watched you for weeks. I know all I need to know.”
She’s silent for a moment, and then she stands up and turns around and straddles the long black leather seat, facing me. “What do you want me to say?”
I smile. “When I ask if I can touch you tonight, I want you to say yes. When I ask if I can kiss you tonight, I want you to say yes. When I ask if I can have you tonight, I want you to say yes. Just say yes, Ronnie. I want you to say yes. One word, that’s it. One word is all it takes. And I really will change your life.”
Her eyes dart back and forth, searching my face. I can almost hear her thoughts. Running all the questions through her mind, past conventional expectations. Past her father’s opinion of her. Past her brothers’ reactions if they find out she gave in to me after knowing me less than twenty-four hours.
And then she closes her eyes and whispers, “Yes.”

AUTHOR BIO
J. A. Huss likes to write new adult books that make you think and keep you guessing. Her favorite genre to read is space opera, but since practically no one reads those books, she writes new adult science fiction, paranormal romance, contemporary romance, urban fantasy, and books about Junco (who refuses to be saddled with a label).

She has an undergraduate degree in horses, (yes, really–Thank you, Colorado State University) and a master’s degree in forensic toxicology from the University of Florida. She used to have a job driving around Colorado doing pretty much nothing but shooting the breeze with farmers, but now she just writes, runs the New Adult Addiction and Clean Teen Reads Book Blogs, and runs an online science classroom for homeschoolers.


Friday, February 21, 2014

Finally Friday!


Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal by Christopher Moore

The birth of Jesus has been well chronicled, as have his glorious teachings, acts, and divine sacrifice after his thirtieth birthday. But no one knows about the early life of the Son of God, the missing years -- except Biff, the Messiah's best bud, who has been resurrected to tell the story in the divinely hilarious yet heartfelt work "reminiscent of Vonnegut and Douglas Adams" (Philadelphia Inquirer).

Verily, the story Biff has to tell is a miraculous one, filled with remarkable journeys, magic, healings, kung fu, corpse reanimations, demons, and hot babes. Even the considerable wiles and devotion of the Savior's pal may not be enough to divert Joshua from his tragic destiny. But there's no one who loves Josh more -- except maybe "Maggie," Mary of Magdala -- and Biff isn't about to let his extraordinary pal suffer and ascend without a fight.


I must say that I have heard that so many of my friends thoroughly enjoyed this book I had to read it for myself. It started out strong and finished strong. No boring parts! I loved reading about their travels and let's face it we all have that one Biff like friend! I am fortunate to have a couple. clearly this book is a twist on stories from the Bible but I would also like to add what I loved most about this book was the clear love  that Biff and Josh had for each other. Friends till the end just doesn't sum it up. From playing rabbi as children to Biff doing his friend a solid by trying to teach him about sex you can't help but enjoy this book. 

I give this book 4 chocolate dipped strawberries and a SHOUT OUT to Biff and Josh. Thank you for inventing lattes.
PEACE

Thursday, February 20, 2014

INDULGENT Must Read: Ravage Me @Ryan_Michele #REVIEW

RavageMe_TourBanner

 

After spending the last two years stuck behind bars for a crime she didn’t commit, Harlow ‘Princess’ Gavelson’s time inside has finally come to an end, and she’s ready for revenge. Unfortunately, being the daughter to the Vice President of the Ravage Motorcycle Club cuts into her plans, as orders must be followed. Trying to settle back into this life is proving difficult when the tables are turned and the woman who framed her is out for blood. Lucky for Princess, growing up in a MC has taught her how to hold her own.

After spending years in hell overseas, Donavon ‘Cruz’ came home to lose the very thing he went into hell for, sending him to the darkest moments of his life. Joining Ravage two years ago was his safe haven, and he protects his family at all costs.

When a dark-haired bombshell struts into the club’s shop, he’s caught off guard but immediately knows she’s the one he’d do anything for. Tough as nails, and taking no crap from anyone, he’s captivated by a woman who could handle this life. Trying to meet the needs of the MC business and follow his heart proves to be difficult when the two collide, and lives are at stake.

Can these two find a way to be together, or will the needs of Ravage cost them everything, including their lives?

*Contains mature content including, sex and violence. Mature audiences only.*

REVIEW
Wow! This story grabbed a hold of me and had me sprinting through to the end. There was never a moment when something wasn't happening. These bikers are dirty, gritty and completely real - so much like the books by Madeline Sheehan which I love. Holding out the element of suspense until the very end -and then that ending, oh, that ending- will keep readers intrigued. And in the meantime, they'll enjoy meeting the members of the Ravage MC including the adorable littlest biker of them all.

So fantastic, this story ravaged me... in a good way... yum! Cruz was delicious and together, he and Princess were freaking hot!

add-to-goodreads-button31RATING
5 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
This book was given to us by the author. Many thanks.

Excerpt (I loved this scene!)
“Sugar, you just stirred up a shit storm.” The southern drawl to his voice mixed with the smell of leather, cigarettes, and radiating testosterone would have made my pussy clench, but he ruined that by pressing a damn gun to my head.

Ravage Me Blog Tour Teaser
“Low, don’t.” I ignored Casey just as I always did. Quickly, I turned my body. As my arm reached back to knock the gun out of his hand, I instantly froze. The three patch rag falling on his chest was a red light flashing in my eyes. Immediately, I stopped, putting my hands in front of me. I would never touch a brother, outside of the ring that is.

The man standing in front of me caught my breath and short-circuited my senses. His broad shoulders were covered with a skin-tight, black t-shirt and leather rag adorned with several patches that fit him like a glove. His bulging arms were covered in tattoos from the wrist up.

They were flexed, one pointed the gun with precision, and the other was fisted at his side. His light caramel hair was cut short on the sides, but longer on the top, begging for a woman’s fingers to run through it. His beard was cut very short to his skin making my mouth water, wondering what it would feel like between my thighs. His sapphire eyes narrowed at me as I stared effortlessly in them, becoming entranced unable to speak.

“What the fuck is going on here?” Breaking from this man’s stare, I focused on the familiar voice I’ve missed for too long. Pops eyes swept the room quickly, and when his eyes landed on mine, the anger in them instantly faded. “What the hell’s going on?” He eyed the man with the gun pointed directly at my head and he clenched his hands into fists.

“Hey, Pops,” I said, turning my eyes back to the beautiful specimen in front of me, wanting him to know that I wasn’t afraid. If I needed a bullet in my head, so be it. I wouldn’t shy away.

“You know this bitch?” the hot asshole in front of me clipped, and my lip curled slowly. If he wasn’t wearing that rag, I’d show him how much of a bitch I could be.

“Put the damn gun down, Cruz,” Pops said jokingly. The anger dripping off this man’s face in front of me told me he didn’t see anything funny about this. He began to take a step closer. “Cruz. Stop!” Pops barked loudly as the other guys started walking up behind him. Cruz instantly stopped, but kept the gun on me. 

“Cruz, this is my daughter, Princess.”

“Shit. Are you fucking kidding me?” Cruz’s anger was actually pretty funny, and I had to stifle the small laugh that wanted to escape. I had too much respect to let it fly. But the shocked look on his face was pretty priceless coming from a tattooed hot-ass. I probably should have told him that sooner, but what can I say … I was born a bitch.

“No, I’m not fucking kidding you. Get the fuck away from her, and put the goddamn gun down.” Moving my head to Pops, I could see he was fuming. Whenever Pops was mad, his forehead turned bright red, and the lines throughout it became more prominent along with the vein that ticked with this heartbeat. It’s a look I always hated growing up, and it used to scare the ever-loving shit out of me.

My eyes flicked back while Cruz took one more look at me. “If you’re still pissed later, we can meet in the ring.” I smiled my damnedest. I could see the smoke threatening to come out of his ears. Confusion laced his eyes, but I wasn’t about to explain right now. I held out my hand to Cruz, “Nice to meet ya. I’m Harlow.” 

He stared me down as if he was hoping he could make me combust into a million pieces. Sorry Buddy, your super powers won’t work. I’ve been here too long to let that get me.

He tentatively lowered the gun, putting it behind his back, bringing his hand to mine. My hand slipped into his warm, rough, strong grip, a shock raced through my body, beginning at my connected hand and racing all the way through to my feet setting my body on fire. “Cruz.”

Meet The Author
Ravage Me PaperbackRyan Michele’s a mom and wife who works full time. She lives in the Midwest and enjoys being outside when the weather’s nice. She even helps out in the corn field when it’s necessary.

Ryan Michele has a huge obsession with reading, which only came to life after her best friend said she had to read Twilight. After reading that series, her entire world changed in the blink of an eye. Not only was she sucked into new worlds and all of the wonderful words authors put down on paper, she felt the urge to begin to write down the characters that played inside of her head. In doing so, Safe was born. Then Wanting You and currently Ravage Me.

Giveaway

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

#DeepSurrendering COVER REVEAL! @chel_c_cam

COVER REVEAL!
Chelsea Cameron's NEW BOOK
Deep Surrendering (Episode 1) 

BLURB
She's all about rules. He lives by none but his own.

When these two meet, the results could be disastrous.

When Marisol Everly’s friend Rory sets her up with Fin Herald, Marisol doesn't expect that it will amount to anything, but that was before she saw Fin's searing blue eyes and mischievous smile. Not to mention, he seems absolutely fascinated by her mundane life. He's everything that a girl could want, but there's something else that ripples under the surface of his flirty behavior. Something darker. Something that fascinates Marisol, but scares her at the same time. Is she willing to risk falling into an abyss she might not get out of?

GIVEAWAY
Win one of two $25 Amazon Gift Cards!
a Rafflecopter giveaway


ABOUT The AUTHOR
Chelsea M. Cameron is a YA/NA New York Times/USA Today Best Selling author from Maine. Lover of things random and ridiculous, Jane Austen/Charlotte and Emily Bronte Fangirl, red velvet cake enthusiast, obsessive tea drinker, vegetarian, former cheerleader and world's worst video gamer. When not writing, she enjoys watching infomercials, singing in the car and tweeting (this one time, she was tweeted by Neil Gaiman). She has a degree in journalism from the University of Maine, Orono that she promptly abandoned to write about the people in her own head. More often than not, these people turn out to be just as weird as she is.

Her New Adult Contemporary Romance titles include My Favorite Mistake, which has been bought by Harlequin along with a sequel, Deeper We Fall and Faster We Burn (April 20, 2013)

Her Young Adult books include Nocturnal, Nightmare and Neither, the first three books in The Noctalis Chronicles. The fourth and final book, Neverend will be out in 2013. Whisper, the first in The Whisper Trilogy is also available, with the second book in the series, Silence and the final book, Listen coming out in 2014.
Website  |  Twitter  |   Facebook  |  Goodreads

Tuesday, February 18, 2014

Heaven is for Heroes @pjsharon #review #audiobook


Smart and athletic seventeen year-old Jordie Dunn has a bright future planned, but when tragedy turns her life upside down, she begins to question not only her future, but the facts surrounding her brother’s death in Iraq. The military’s account that his best friend and fellow Marine, Alex Cooper, is at fault, is a notion she refuses to believe. Alex was the careful one--the shy, protective, computer geek she’s had a crush on since the ninth grade, and she knows better than anyone that her troubled brother had a dark and reckless side—a secret she’s kept for far too long.



With no memory of the incident that killed his best friend, nineteen year-old Alex Cooper returns home, shattered and facing a difficult recovery. Determined to go it alone, he pushes Jordie away. No longer the freckle-faced tom-boy who followed him and Levi around as a kid, she has become a beautiful and stubborn young woman who believes in him far more than he deserves. 


While Jordie’s unique approach to rehab pushes Alex to extremes, the two discover that their childhood friendship has grown into more. The attraction has Jordie’s head spinning and her heart soaring, but Alex struggles to deal with his guilt, his loss, and the nightmares that continue to haunt him. Even though Jordie is determined to help him heal, and even more determined to find the truth, what she doesn’t expect, is to find love.



Review:

With her finger on the pulse of today's military families, PJ Sharon has crafted a debut novel to set the bar quite high.  With characters that live and breathe and a story line that hurtles through the highs and lows of first love and deepest loss,  Heaven is For Heroes has the potential to be a classic.

Jordie has loved Alex since childhood.  Alex has been her brother's best friend forever.  Both young men enter the military after high school and are deployed together to Afghanistan.  Sadly, both return home at the same time - Levi dead, Alex broken.   Jordie and her family are left to grieve and move forward but knowing and doing are two different things.  When Jordie shifts all her priorities to help Alex walk again and resume a normal life, the pair grows closer.  But her obsession with finding out how her brother died threatens to tear her whole world apart.

Sharon creates very believable characters with very real quirks and emotions.  By no means an easy subject, she manages to find the balance between grieving and living.  The dialogue flows well and the story keeps a steady pace.  The audiobook reader Erin Mallon does a solid job of voicing the teen protagonist.  There are moments of serious emotion and Jordie, as a character, has many of those frustrating hyper-focused qualities of a teen (which makes an adult reader want to give her a whack at times).  However the bond between Jordie and Alex has true chemistry and the mystery surrounding Levi's death and the accident that took Alex's leg and his military career drives the reader to listen long after pulling in the driveway!

RATING: Four Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries.  This book was given to us by the author for an unbiased review. Many thanks.

 

Big Bone Lick Pack by @kendallmckenna, @Jambrea, @authornoel #REVIEW


Big Bone Lick Pack, Kendall McKenna, Jambrea Jo Jones, & Cherie Noel, MLR Press
Welcome to the Big Bone Lick Pack: A more friendly and hospitable group of werewolves you'll never meet! Visit with; 'Devil Dog & Bad Wolf', a 'Big Bad Bear' and enjoy some 'Shifty Fox Shenanigans'. Watch yourself, 'round the state park, 'cause we had a grizzly on the loose, just a bit ago. Our brave men and woman of the Boone County Sheriff's Department have everything under control. (Except maybe their own love lives!) But if find yourself needing a doctor, head on down to Rabbit Hash clinic, or St. Elizabeth's Hospital is just up the road a piece. We hope you enjoy your stay.





REVIEW:
Devil Dog & Bad Wolf
I enjoyed the first book and felt that it was the strongest of the three. Asa and Seth were interesting engaging characters and I would like to read more about them. I felt the world that was established in this story was fun and really set the tone of the whole anthology.

Big Bad Bear
I liked Dov and Kane but there was s story line that was introduced and never followed through on and it gave the ending an abrupt feeling. I just felt there was more to this story that wasn't told. Dov's actions from the moment he met Kane just made me grin. Completely single minded. LOL

Shifty Fox Shenanigans
I never connected to Simon and Josiah and that was probably because of the excessive amount of descriptive words used through out the story. There were several times I had to go back and read a sentence twice, once as written and then again without all of the extra words, just to get the point the author was trying to make. 



RATING: 3.5 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries.  

 

Monday, February 17, 2014

A-Maze-ing #REVIEW @LaverneThompson

Maze (Ballerina #2) by Ursula Sinclair 


Maze
There are times in life when you have to make decisions that others will neither understand nor forgive. When that happens, then you make damn sure they never find out. But no matter what, you will do anything to protect those you love. Even if it means you forfeit your soul.

Ivy
He’s keeping something from me. And I’m not sure I want to know because it will forever change us.

REVIEW
This love story could be epic, spanning years of these characters' lives, if only there was even more depth. As is, it's a beautiful story though with interesting characters that a compelling story line. There's love, loss, heartbreak, illness, suspense, betrayal and redemption. Those are some powerful elements.

Maze was as strong as Ivy was weak. And while I loved Maze's strength, I wanted to see more growth in Ivy as she entered into this new world with Maze. Maybe that happened in the years between the ending and the epilogue. Or maybe she's just the kind of girl Maze needed. Regardless, their relationship was quite sweet as he tried to protect her from his world. And he proved, he would do absolutely anything for her. Who wouldn't adore a man like that?

There were some grammatical errors I wish her proofreader had caught but nothing that kept me from enjoying the book. And hallelujah, this cover was so much better than the first!

If the author ever elected to combine the two books, flesh out the years a bit more to go deeper into the Triad/ Tong, this could be absolutely epic. I'd read it all over again. Maze and Ivy prove opposites attract, and while it wasn't the focus, they also prove inter-racial relationships work in romance.

RATING
4 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
This book was given to us by the author. Many thanks.

Sunday, February 16, 2014

COVER REVEAL! The Opposite of Nothing @ShariSlade

CHECK OUT THIS AWESOME COVER!

The Opposite of Nothing
by Shari Slade
Publication date: April 14th 2014
Genres: Contemporary New Adult Romance

Synopsis:
Callie Evans would rather hide out in her DJ sound booth than face the fact that she’s in love with her best friend, notorious campus hottie Tayber King.

Tayber turns hooking up into an art form–no drama, no commitment, no lies, and nobody gets hurt. Nobody but Callie, that is. When she sees an opportunity to explore his sexier side using a fake online profile, she grabs it. Now her uninhibited alter-ego ‘Sasha’ is steaming up the screen, and Callie’s whole life is breaking all of Tayber’s rules.

As Callie and Tayber get closer, online and off, she knows she has to confess. And risk losing him forever.


AUTHOR BIO
Shari Slade is a snarky optimist. A would-be academic with big dreams and very little means. When she isn’t toiling away in the non-profit sector, she’s writing gritty stories about identity and people who make terrible choices in the name of love (or lust). Somehow, it all works out in the end. If she had a patronus it would be a platypus.

Frequently found in a blanket fort, you can also find her contributing at Wonkomance, on twitter, facebook, or tumblr.

Saturday, February 15, 2014

A Twisted #REVIEW @KARobinsonAutho

Twisted (Torn #2) by K.A. Robinson was even more destructive than Torn. What these two young people go through and survive changes them.

***New York Times Best Seller***

Chloe and Drake have found their happily ever after... Almost. When Chloe's mother comes back into her life with a bang, it sets off a chain of events no one could have ever expected. Everyone has their demons, and Chloe and Drake's hit them with a vengence. Sex, drugs, money, a crazy ex, and Rock n Roll.... Can they survive it all? Things are beginning to feel a bit... Twisted.

REVIEW: I finished Torn and just wasn't in love with the characters as so many other readers were but still wanted to read the next book. That tells me the author crafted good characters that connected with readers. I cared enough to want to know what happened next. To be more accurate, I should say what didn't happen next. Good grief! The author threw in a lot of pitfalls for Chloe and Drake - maybe too many. The book could've focused in one even just one or two of the issues and still been enough. Still, their journey was interesting and the author created both characters for readers to love and to hate.

Written in both main characters' POV, the scene flowed one to the next fueled by angst and suspicions of what was to come. The plot moved quickly and the author's dialogue style was authentic making the characters that much more believable. With the complexities of the story, the ending came together and was satisfying - though I would've had him groveling a hell of a lot more!

RATING: 3 Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
This book was given to us through NetGalley. Many thanks.
 
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