Monday, August 31, 2015

Book Blast for Deal Breakers by Laura Lee (GIVEAWAY)


Readers who enjoy the theme of friends to lovers will find much to recommend this fun and flirty romance.  Keep reading to get a tantalizing taste of Deal Breakers by Laura Lee, and learn even more about this book by visiting the other sites hosting this tour, before adding it to your bookshelf.  In honor of this book release make sure to fill out the form below for the chance to win a $15 bookstore GC too!

How were they supposed to know that one night would change everything?
Devyn has life all mapped out. She just needs to accomplish one more thing before graduating college and becoming a full-fledged adult—lose her virginity. And who better to assist her than her best friend, Riley?
Riley is the self-proclaimed king of fling. His college years have been filled with meaningless hookups until the one night that ruined him for all other women. The one night he spends with his best friend, Devyn. Right before he screws it all up.
Balls to the wall, baby!
Now five years later, Riley is determined to atone for his mistakes and prove that he can be the man that Devyn deserves. Little does he know that Devyn’s been keeping a secret from him all these years. A big secret. Now he has to figure out how to win back the only girl he’s ever loved while navigating the pitfalls of her unexpected revelation.
Deal Breakers is filled with lots of laughs, a sexy romance, and an overflowing swear jar.

EXCERPT:

“Uh oh,” Brody says. “I know that look. Tell me about her.”
I look up. “What?”
He laughs. “You’re hung up on a chick.”
I sigh. “Is it that obvious?”
He smiles. “Ah, I get it, brother. You’ve been touched by the Magic Pussy.”
“The magic what?”
“The Magic Pussy,” he repeats. “Pussy that is so good you can never get enough and it’s impossible to forget. An Urban Legend in my opinion, but you sure do have all the pathetic signs.”
“Thanks,” I grumble.

BUY AT AMAZON here.

AUTHOR INFO:

Laura Lee is the author of the bestselling Karli Lane series as well as the upcoming Dealing With Love series. She is a proud member of the Romance Writers of America focusing on paranormal, urban fantasy, and contemporary romance.
Laura's passion has always been storytelling. She spent most of her life with her nose in a book thinking of alternate endings or continuations to the story. She won her first writing contest at the ripe old age of nine, earning a trip to the state capital to showcase her manuscript. Thankfully for her, those early works will never see the light of day again!
Laura lives in the Pacific Northwest with her wonderful husband, two beautiful children, and three of the most poorly behaved cats in existence. She likes her fruit smoothies filled with rum, her cupboards stocked with Cadbury's chocolate, and her music turned up loud. When she's not writing or watching HGTV, she's reading anything she can get her hands on. She's a sucker for spicy romances, especially those involving vampires or cowboys!


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Sunday, August 30, 2015

Book Spotlight for The Highlander's Bride by Amanda Forester (GIVEAWAY)

When I first started reading romance novels over thirty years ago it was a historical-themed romance that indoctrinated me and since then the genre has held a special place in my heart.  Today I'm introducing you to the wonderful Amanda Forester with The Highlander's Bride, releasing on Tuesday.  Keep reading to get a tantalizing taste of this first installment in the Highland Trouble series as well as getting to know the unforgettable heroine.  In honor of this book release make sure to fill out the form below for the chance to win 5 print copies of this book too!

Full Name: Lady Marie Colette Baudin
Nickname (if applicable): Colette
Height: 5’5”
Hair Color: Dark mahogany
Eye Color: Green
Age:  21
Originally from: Born in 1338 and raised in the duchy of Bergerac, France, where her father is the duke.
Describe yourself in 200 words or less: Greeting, mes amis. I am pleased to meet you all. I am the humble daughter of the duc de Bergerac. [humble, snort]  (If you please, Lady Agnes, to hold your tongue while I am speaking to these nice people.) As I said, I am the daughter of the duc de Bergerac and it is my pleasure to serve the duchy by accepting my arranged marriage to a Highland chief, who will assist our people in their most desperate fight against the English oppressors. [Gasp!How can you accept such a fate?] (Do you think I wish to be banished to some frozen wasteland with a barbarian husband? No! But we must sacrifice ourselves for our people.) Ahem. Thank you for visiting today. Please forgive the short interview for myself and my ladies are preparing to undertake a journey most arduous for the good of our people.
What matters the most to you in your life?  I have been trained since I was in leading strings to serve my father and the duchy. People look to me for encouragement, so I must remain calm and serene in all circumstances. It is what is expected of me…but sometimes I wish to make my own decisions, to reject the path my father has for me, even if it means to stay in France and fight myself against the English dogs. Ah, forgive me, that is but nonsense. I shall go to Scotland as I must.
What is your favorite way to pass the time?  Do come close. I shall tell you, but I cannot have my ladies hear this or they will put a stop to it tout suite. Before she died, my mother she taught me to…to read. I confess, I have read through all of my father’s book collection most priceless. The only thing my ladies will allow me to read is the Book of Hours, for they believe books would overcome my delicate sensibilities. My sensibilities, they must not be so delicate, for I adore reading the Greek myths, the stories of adventure and…oh, here they come. Please not a word to my ladies-in-waiting!
If money was no object and you had 3 weeks free of responsibility what would you do with your time?  Oh, but that is a question burns in my heart. If I could do anything, I would remain here in France. I confess, I am most anxious by the thought of leaving everything behind and traveling with this large Highlander, this Sir Gavin, who will be my guide to meet my affianced husband. He has a kind face, but everyone knows Highlanders are barbaric creatures. I fear my fate, but I must do my duty to my family, to the people of my land, even if it means never seeing them again.

Their attraction is forbidden
All Highland warrior Gavin Patrick wants is to get back to his native Scotland. But before he can leave the battlefield, he’s given a final mission—escort Lady Marie Colette to her fiancĂ©. Under no circumstances is he to lay hands on the beautiful, clever-tongued heiress…no matter how desperate the temptation.
Their desire, undeniable
Forced to pose as a married couple to make their escape from France, Gavin and Marie Colette find themselves thrown into peril…and each other’s arms. As the danger mounts, so does their forbidden passion. But it isn’t until Marie Colette is taken from him that Gavin is forced to decide—is he willing to lose the woman who stole his heart, or will he jeopardize his honor, defy his promise, and steal her in return?

EXCERPT:

France, 1359
Lady Marie Colette had one chance. She needed to secure the Highlander’s agreement to decline marrying her, and she needed to do it quickly, before her father returned. She had never before defied her father, but if he thought he could protect her by arranging a marriage with a Highland warrior and send her far away to Scotland of all places, he was much confused.
In truth, Sir Gavin was a fine specimen of a man. She was fair enough to admit it. He was a young man and built on a large scale, towering over most men. He had broad shoulders and a muscular chest, well-defined beneath the formfitting surcoat. His dark brown hair hung down to his square jaw and had a bit of a thick wave to it. He was clean shaven, a surprise considering he was a barbaric Highlander.
“I have heard rumors o’ yer beauty, but ye’re bonnier than anything I heard described.” Sir Gavin spoke in a rich tone with a lyrical accent, pleasing to her ears. However, if he thought he could win her over with compliments, he was much mistaken. She had been told so often she was beautiful that the words no longer had meaning.
“Please understand. It is impossible for me to marry you. But if you make an arrangement with me now, you will not leave empty-handed. Name your weight in gold to walk away.” Her heard pounded to make such a blunt offer. In truth, she would never have made such a crass offer to a French knight, whose honor would have been greatly impinged, but Sir Gavin was a foreigner. A Highlander. Were they not only here in France to profit off of the long war?
Sir Gavin’s eyebrows rose for a moment before falling back down in resignation. “I will no’ take the fortune of a lady, nor will I force anyone to marry me.” He spoke in a careless manner, as if what she offered was nothing to him.
Colette released a breath she had not realized she was holding. Had he just agreed not to marry her? Would he simply walk away? “So you will tell my father you will not marry me?”
A wry smile played about his lips and she had the distinct impression he was not taking the situation as seriously as she thought it deserved. “I am yers to command. If ye wish me to leave, I will go.”
Relief washed over her. She would not be banished to the wilds of Scotland with some strange, albeit attractive, man. “Thank you, Sir Knight. My father, he wished to protect me by sending me far, but I cannot see myself in such a wild, foreign place. We would be most unequally yoked.”
Gavin leaned a shoulder against the stone wall and stared out the dark window into the night. “The Highlands are a rugged place and my home is no’ nearly as grand as this fine castle. ’Tis a wild place, but in the evening, when the sun’s rays touch the high peaks, setting them aglow with the fiery light, ’tis so beautiful it robs yer breath. No finely decorated hall could ever compare.”
Colette opened her mouth but no words came.
He turned back to her, appraising her finery with a critical eye. “Someday, God willing, I shall take my bride there, a bride who chooses me above all men. We will no’ be surrounded by courtiers or pageantry or fancy clothes or ridiculous pointed shoes.”
Colette swallowed, heat creeping up the back of her neck. Had he seen the points of her shoes?He stepped close to her, moving with a fluid grace that made her heart beat faster. “In the Highlands we dinna have all yer comforts, but what we do have we fiercely defend.”
“What do you have?” she asked in a voice barely above a whisper.
“Freedom. In the Highlands, m’lady, ye would be free.”
Free? She stared up at him. He dangled before her the one thing all her riches could never buy. He offered her freedom.
He leaned nearer and her eyes fell to his lips, which inexplicably appeared soft. She could not help but respond to the irresistible pull of his inviting mouth. He moved slowly, bending down so that their lips drew dangerously close. She breathed in the scent of him, an intoxicating mix of wood smoke, fine wine, and pure man.
The door creaked and her father strode back in the room as both Colette and Gavin jumped away from each other. The duc de Bergerac spread a scroll out on a table. “This is the marriage accord I have made with the Baron of Kintail.”
“Wait…who?” Colette tried to gather together her swirling thoughts in order to form speech. She glanced at Sir Gavin. The careless smile was gone. They had both made the wrong assumption.
Gavin wasn’t meant for Colette at all.

BUY LINKS:  AMAZON  |  iBOOKS  |  BAM  |  BN  |  CHAPTERS  |  INDIEBOUND

AUTHOR INFO:

Amanda Forester holds a PhD in psychology and worked many years in academia before discovering that writing historical romance was way more fun. A Publishers Weekly Top Ten author, her books have been given starred reviews from Booklist, Publishers Weekly, and a Top Pick from RT Book Reviews. Whether in the rugged Highlands of medieval Scotland or the decadent ballrooms of Regency England, her novels offer fast-paced adventures filled with wit, intrigue, and romance. You can visit her at www.amandaforester.com.

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Saturday, August 29, 2015

Book Review for What Janie Wants by Rhenna Morgan


Clothing optional....
Janie McAlister should have known better than to trust her quirky sister’s taste in resorts. Instead of thatched-roof huts and designer pools overlooking the ocean, she’s landed at the one seventies throwback in the Riviera Maya with an open door nudity policy. No way is she going au naturale in public. And she’s sure not entertaining the advances of the bold young man with the delicious body daring her to do exactly that…and so much more.
Well, hello, Ms. McAlister…
Zade Painel’s a man on a mission—grab some much needed R&R at Gypsy Cove, and figure out how to reclaim his boudoir photography business. He never thought the answer would come in the form of a curvy, forty-year-old redhead and an accidental knee to the ‘nads, but Janie proves to be a force of nature with a penchant for fixing things. She’s also sexy as hell. One way or another, he’s going to help her see just that. And if he plays his cards right, it’ll be a heavenly hands-on approach that lasts way past seven days in paradise.

********************

Fans of the older woman/younger man theme will want to add this to their list of enjoyable reads with its likable characters and steamy encounters.  It's a pleasant read, set mainly in an exotic locale, that charmed me even as it addressed the familiar issues surrounding this favorite theme of mine.

Janie's on vacation after signing divorce papers from a husband who cheated on her with a younger woman.  For twenty years she devoted herself to her family, never going after what she wanted.  Coming to an island full of sun and surf has her vowing to relax and decide what she wants out of her new life.  Meeting the sexy and younger Zade helps her embrace the fun life has to offer and has her seeing herself in a whole new light, a womanly light where her vibrancy calls to him.  Though she has concerns over their age difference she can't deny how supportive he is of her, how good he makes her feel, and how much richer life is when he's in it.  With their time on the island coming to and end will she go with her heart or let other's preconceived notions take away the other half to her soul that Zade's become.  Janie's a strong-willed woman who's not as bitter as most divorcees as she can admit she's excited by this recent change in her life. She's a bit leery of Zade at first but their crackling connection soon wins her over.  Her concerns about age are understandable but an altercation towards the end of the story felt a bit manipulative and overly dramatic and left me disappointed in Janie.

Zade may be young but he's wiser in years than most young men his age which will come in handy as he has to use every ounce of charm to win over Janie. It's a fortuitous meeting between two apparent opposites as he too is on the island to reassess his life.  Before now he's never had trouble getting women but Janie's initial low self-esteem has her leading him on a merry chase and him using charm, sexiness, and playfulness to win her over.  Zade's the quintessential hero as he says and does everything right.  He compliments Janie at every turn, supports her and inspires her to live life wholeheartedly.  Through his artistic talent he shows her her true self-worth even as she lets his age blind her to the truth of their feelings for each other.  He's sweet, sexy, and caring and you can't help but fall for him.

This was an enjoyable read with a delightful hero and admirable heroine.  The setting is exotic and romantic and helped bring these two people together through fun and flirty encounters.  The sexual interludes were scorching at first and got even more fiery and frantic as their time together came to an end.  The issues surrounding their age difference are familiar and dealt with in a mostly believable manner with the final confrontation feeling a bit over the top.  The ending too was wrapped up a bit too quickly as I wanted Janie to be the one to chase after Zade for a change.  On a whole though this was a fun and flirty read with a drool-worthy hero that's still invading my dreams and I recommend it as a decadent diversion to the stresses of the day.

My rating for this is a B+

*I got this book from the author for review in exchange for my honest opinion.

Friday, August 28, 2015

Book Tour for Fire Me Up by Rachael Johns (Review & GIVEAWAY)


As a fan of MC-themed romances I'm excited to bring you this second installment in the Deacons of Bourbon Street series, Fire Me Up by Rachael Johns, and the men coming home to deal with their pasts head-on.  Keep reading to get a tantalizing taste of this gritty and sensual read, along with my impressions of it, and learn even more about it by visiting the other sites hosting this tour.  In honor of this release make sure to fill out the form below for the chance to win a bundle of eBooks too!

Can a scorching affair with a bohemian beauty tame a motorcycle man with a dark side? Rachael Johns takes the wheel in the sexy series co-written with Megan Crane, Jackie Ashenden, and Maisey Yates.
Travis “Cash” Sinclair values only two things from his days with the Deacons of Bourbon Street: his prized Harley Davidson and the man who gave it to him. But now Priest Lombard is gone, and Cash has inherited the Deacons’ clubhouse—not to mentions its unexpected tenant. She’s exactly the type of woman he tries to avoid: all incense and art, with a sharp tongue that promises trouble. So why does Cash want to push aside those flowing skirts and lose himself between her legs?
Billie Taylor fled a bad marriage to start a new life among the grit and glamour of the French Quarter. She refuses to let another man distract her from her dreams, especially an outlaw biker with nothing to offer except hot sex and an eviction notice. Cash is dangerous, with an untamed streak he tries desperately to conceal. He drives Billie wild, sending her too close to the edge for her own good. And she won’t fall under his spell—or into his bed—without a fight.

EXCERPT:

Fucking Ajax wanted to keep the joint, revive the damn club, embrace the old brotherhood, and Leon was all for it. They’d spent all night after the funeral downing bourbon, reliving “fond” memories and making plans, and had gotten progressively more obsessed. Only Travis and Micah could see that the best thing for all of them would be to sell off the buildings Priest had left them and get the fuck back out of town. Tallahassee might seem boring in comparison to New Orleans, but it was safe. This place still set him on edge; it made him feel things he didn’t want to feel. Travis knew the longer he stayed, the more likely he was to lose his shit with someone and end up in jail. Again.
Realizing she was still staring at him, he straightened and then gestured beyond them to the door that led inside. Despite her coolness, her paltry attempts at hostility did nothing to calm the fire rising within him. “Then you can show me to my room,” he told her, indecent suggestion dripping from his tone.
“Excuse me?”
Her outraged expression only wound the coil of heat inside him tighter. He turned and headed over to where he’d dumped his bag on the floor. Billie wasn’t wearing any shoes so he didn’t hear her stalking after him, but he felt her. She was following him and if he played his cards right, he could turn what had been a shitty day into one that would blow both their minds. Leaning over, he hitched his pack over his shoulder and then turned, expecting to come face-to-face with her alluring anger, but almost tripping over a little gray dog instead.
“What the fuck is that?” And where the hell had it come from? He steadied himself against the wall, his fingers closing around the edge of some grotesque fairy painting, and peered down at the thing that had almost resulted in giving him a broken leg. It looked up at him, teeth bared, a low growl emanating from somewhere beneath rolls and rolls of wrinkles. Travis had never been big on small dogs, but he had to give it to this one—it had balls.
Billie smiled that saccharine smile again. “This is Baxter, and I think what he’s trying to say is you don’t have a room here.”
“Well, Baxter.” Travis glared down at the pathetic excuse for a dog. “That’s where you’re wrong. In case you misunderstood before, Billie,” he said, looking back to her, “I’m the new owner of this building. And, as it happens, I need a place to stay for a few weeks. Maybe longer.”
“That may be,” Billie said, standing her ground, although he noted a quiver in her voice, “but I already live here, so you’ll have to find somewhere else.”
“I don’t think so.” He shook his head and made to move past Billie and Baxter.
She sidestepped so that she was in his way and Baxter bared his teeth even more, his growl growing deeper. “If you are my new landlord,” Billie said, her tone filled with disgust, “then you’d know I have rights as the tenant. You need to give me notice for an inspection and you definitely can’t just move in.”
“Sweetheart.” He leaned forward so he was invading her personal space. She smelled sweet, of some kind of strawberry shampoo or something that made his muscles tighten, but he ignored it. “No one tells me what the fuck to do. And if you can afford a lawyer, then you’re not paying us enough rent.”
“I . . . I . . .” Billie blinked, and her tits heaved up and down as she searched for more words.
He made no apology for looking, waited a beat, and when it seemed she didn’t have anything to add he tossed her one final question. “Can you afford a lawyer?”
Her shoulders slumped and she shook her head.
He smirked his victory. “In that case, you, me and Baxter are roommates.

FIND THIS BOOK ON GOODREADS here.

FIND THE DEACONS OF BOURBON STREET SERIES ON GOODREADS here.

BUY LINKS:  AMAZON  |  BN  |  iBOOKS  |  KOBO

MY IMPRESSIONS OF THIS BOOK:

As the second installment in the Deacons of Bourbon Street series the mystery, angst, and sensuality continues as readers are introduced to the gruff yet sexy playboy Travis and upbeat hippie girl Billie.  Theirs is a relationship that's full of fireworks from the very start as the past continues to rain down on the boys the once powerful Priest betrayed.  It all makes for a fast-paced read that can stand on its own but will be enhanced when the series is read in order.  Though there are very few answers here it's an exciting introduction to a once bad boy reconciling with his past and his unlikely match who's moved on from hers.

Travis felt he'd found a father figure in Priest after a childhood of loneliness courtesy of a mother who cared more for herself than her son.  He'd found a feeling of pride and self-worth amongst the Deacons, a family of sorts, until the day he was sent away.  That betrayal lingered for ten years, with him vowing never to come back, until the death of Priest forces him to come home.  The returning man is a bitter, cold-hearted one who wants to sell the legacy left to him and go back to his life before his former Brothers betray him again.  Being with his Brothers though causes his heart to unthaw as does meeting Billie. Before he knows it he's using his tech skills to dig into Priest's death, and the truths surrounding his past, as a visitor from his past further complicates things for his heart.  Billie's his biggest complication though as he's drawn to her despite their being complete opposites.  She brings out his softer side, a sweet and charming side, along with his protective instincts.  Travis is alpha to the core, though he gives her the independence she craves, with sensuality oozing from him which makes their connection crackle and teem with sexual tension.

Billie's bruised by her past too.  She's newly-divorced from a man who dominated her and who took away her essence and she's vowed to never let another man take over her life again.  Travis is a temptation though, despite his coldness and arrogance, which leads to a scorching and humorous sensual tug of war where the winner's never clear.  Billie's a strong-willed Australian woman who's started her life completely over and refuses to let Travis take the security of her new gallery from her.  As their attraction gets hotter, and as Travis digs deeper into the past, their relationship becomes the only sure thing in their lives if only they're willing to put their hearts on the line.  Billie was an entertaining heroine who judged the Deacons by what she learned on TV which made for some humorous exchanges.  Her banter with Travis was fiery which fueled their already combustible connection that had me wanting them to give in much sooner than they did.  Being around Travis brought out a stronger piece to her personality that had her giving as good as she got when in his presence.

This was an entertaining and quick read with a main couple whose connection was crackling and that added to the energy of the French Quarter.  Travis was a sexy bad boy finally coming full circle whose charm and talent for dirty talk called to me with Billie a formidable match for him with their relationship a nice compliment to the overall mystery of Priest's death.  Though we don't really make much headway with Priest's death, the search is serving to bring his boys home.  From the ashes they're once again making an unlikely family that brings out softer sides to four bruised and unfulfilled men and I look forward to Blue and Prince finding closure for themselves and for Priest to finally rest in peace.

My rating for this is a B.

*I got this book from NetGalley for review in exchange for my honest opinion.

AUTHOR INFO:

Rachael Johns is an English teacher by trade, a mum 24/7, a supermarket owner, a chronic arachnophobic, and a writer the rest of the time. She rarely sleeps and never irons. She writes contemporary romance for HQN and Carina Press and lives in rural Western Australia with her hyperactive husband and three mostly-gorgeous heroes-in-training. Rachael loves to hear from readers and can be contacted through.....


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Book Blast for Summer of the Eagle by Susan Edwards (GIVEAWAY)


Throughout her extensive career Susan Edwards has crafted an impressive collection of romances that have entertained millions of readers.  I'm honored to be hosting her today with her newest historical release with a paranormal twist, Summer of the Eagle, the first installment in the Seasons of Love series.  Keep reading to get a compelling glimpse of this tale and learn even more about it by visiting the other sites hosting this tour.  In honor of this book release make sure to fill out the form for the chance to win a $15 bookstore GC too!

The most powerful woman in her tribe, Blaze can heal with a touch, control the elements, merge her mind with any living creature and more. Yet, she is an outcast. Her people fear her and she herself is afraid of the things she can do. There is darkness in her visions, along with a tall, buckskin-clad stranger with golden-brown hair and eyes as green as the leaves on trees. Somehow, he is her destiny.
Luc Cordell is done with trapping.  He yearns for civilization and a normal life.  His only regret is leaving behind his family. But his father’s second wife is a SpiritWalker, and now, so is his father.  How can Luc live with people who run with the wolves or soar across the heavens with the owls? Yet when a haunted healer with stars in her colorful eyes enters his life, he is drawn into the mystical world whether he likes it or not.
The winds of change are sweeping across the land, taking Luc and Blaze into a world of lies, deceit, and murder. Together, they search for truth and must turn to the eagles for answers.

EXCERPT:

Luc lifted his head and stared into her dark, glittering eyes. “Damn, who is going to protect you from me?” He needed her and wanted her. All of her, no matter the sacrifice to his own heart and soul.
She cupped his face between her palms, her fingers combing through the thick beard. Her voice trembled. “I am sorry.” She brushed leaves from his hair. Her troubled gaze latched onto a tree that lay directly above them, its trunk caught in the fork of another tree.
“What happened?” Blaze asked the question, but she knew. She’d felt the rage inside her but had been helpless to stop it or to wake from the gripping night dream. But it was no dream and she knew it. Knew the truth now.
He wiped the tears from her face. “Had yourself one hell of a nightmare, Ange.” He glanced around, then grimaced as he spotted the fallen tree. “That was pretty damn close, sweetheart.”
She closed her eyes. “Not a dream. It was real.” Tears slid down her cheeks. She tried not to think about what the man she’d believed to be her father had done to her. All his lies. His secrets. His deceit.
He pulled her close, curving her into his arms. He rubbed her hands with his to warm her. “Tell me about it.”
Blaze could not stop the tears. She clung to Luc, afraid to let go, afraid he’d put her aside. She needed his touch, the gently rhythmic stroking of his palm circling her back and the sound of his soft, soothing voice. She’d tried to put the grief away, but the truth and the betrayal were too strong. Grief held her in its greedy grip. She didn’t remember her parents, but her heart still needed to grieve.
“I watched them die.” The words came out stark and painful. It would be so easy for her to turn her anger, pain, and the sheer rage of her past onto the man who’d stolen her not just from her people but stolen her very life. No one knew better that anger was a wasted emotion. And for her, a dangerous one, as evidenced by the destruction around her. “My father killed them.”

AUTHOR INFO:

Susan resides in California with her husband of thirty + years. She love animals. Cats currently number six as she just rescued a kitten named Luna last fall. She now considers herself to be a crazy cat lady! She also has three dogs. Two adorable Chiweenies named JJ and Abbey and  temporary (ha!) custody of Shasta, her daughter’s six year old, Great Pyrenees mix.
Susan also enjoys crafts of all sorts including quilting, sewing, cross-stitch and knitting. Knitting and crochet are her current passions although with the arrival of her first granddaughter, her sewing machine as seen the light of day. She is also an avid gardener. Through her love of all things Native American, she designed a 26-foot Medicine Wheel Garden. It’s a big project but one that she loves, except when the weeds threaten. Right now, with her crazy, busy schedule, the weeds are winning the war!
Camping, fishing, biking and hiking (when not hot) are other outdoor pursuits she and her husband enjoy. She is of course, an avid reader and hates cooking and housework. While writing, she listens to a wide variety of music, including Neil Diamond, Celtic, Native American, New Age, Classical, and mood music (bagpipes and howling wolves drive my family nuts). Her current favorites are Blackmore’s Night and David Lanz.
Native American/Western romance writer Susan Edwards is the author of the popular “White” Series. She was nominated for the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for Western Historical and Reviewer’s Choice Best Book Award. She is very pleased to be able to offer to her readers her White series in Digital Format, along with her SpiritWalker series.


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Winner of Body Checked by Katherine Stark

Before I announce the winner of an e-copy of the compelling and sensual sports-themed romance with a mafia-fueled twist, Body Checked by Katherine Stark, I want to thank all those who signed up.  Thanks too Ms. Stark for giving away a copy of this enjoyable read.  And now, without further ado, the winner is...


....Mary Preston!!!  Congratulations and Happy Reading!  I'll be contacting you soon regarding your win so be on the lookout for it...

Thursday, August 27, 2015

Book Tour for Hard for My Best Friend’s Sister by Ava Jackson (Review)


As a reader who enjoys steamy romances I found myself drawn to this from the moment I read the premise.  Keep reading to get a tempting taste of Hard for My Best Friend's Sister by Ava Jackson, along with my impressions, and then add it to your bookshelf!

The last time I saw her, she was asleep—and I'd just taken her virginity.
She was my best friend's little sister. I'd broken the guy code, and the guilt had me running before she woke.
Ten years later, she's a corporate bad ass negotiating across the table from me—and hotter than ever. I want my second chance, but she's all grown up and isn't about to hand it to me.
This time, I've got a whole different game plan in mind.
***
The last time I saw him, he was balls deep inside me—and I'd just lost my virginity. When I woke up he was gone.
Ten years hasn't erased the sting of rejection. And now he wants his second chance?
I swore I'd say no ... but then he made me an offer I couldn't refuse: when we're working, we're strangers, but at night? He'll make my every dirty fantasy come true.
This time, I'm not going to be the one left wanting more. Standalone steamy, erotic romance.

FIND AT GOODREADS here.

BUY LINKS:  AMAZON (US)  |  AMAZON (UK)

MY IMPRESSIONS OF THIS:

As someone who's read numerous romances between a girl and her brother's best friend I was immediately drawn to the premise of this book.  I expected the usual issues to arise within the pages but Ms. Jackson set her romance apart with likable characters and a charming and straight-forward storyline.  It's ultimately a story about forgiveness and second chances too with enough flashbacks to give depth to the characters and believability to their connection.

Cameron knew he did wrong the moment he slept with his best friend's sister. Instead of dealing with it head-on though, he ran.  Ten years and he can run no longer and it's an awkward reunion he has with the girl he's never forgotten as this time around he vows to make her his permanently.  Cameron was immensely appealing despite his earlier vanishing act.  He's grown older and wiser and knows what he wants this time around.  He won't waste time waiting for Dylan anymore and it's a sweet yet sexy onslaught he unleashes on her.

Dylan was once in love with Cameron which is why she was heartbroken when he left.  Ten years later has her older and wiser too, along with fiery and strong-willed when focused on her career.  Seeing Cameron again reawakens the feelings for him that she's kept buried but she won't be won over as easily this time around.  Dylan was smart and confident and gave as good as she got when it came to their sensual tug of war.

Theirs is a connection that's crackling with sensual yet playful encounters.  Their dialogue was fun and flirty and teeming with sexual tension.  Neither of them obsessed over the past as they're clearly more focused on their future.  There's no silly disagreements impeding their HEA either which was a refreshing change from these usual romantic entanglements.  Ultimately this was a pleasant diversion over way too soon.  From start to finish this was a charming yet decadently delightful read between two likable people and I commend Ms. Jackson on her entertaining storytelling!

My rating for this is a B+

*I got this book from the author for review in exchange for my honest opinion.

AUTHOR INFO:

Ava enjoys naughty things. She’s drawn to the forbidden and taboo, and writes kink that makes you think. Raised in Idaho, Ava now lives on the East Coast with her husband, and two dogs.

Wednesday, August 26, 2015

Book Tour for 3 Seconds by Bethany Lopez (Review & GIVEAWAY)

As a reader who adores the older woman/younger man theme I was immediately drawn to this sweet and sexy read.  I'm excited to introduce it to you so keep reading to get a tantalizing taste of 3 Seconds by Bethany Lopez, the sixth book in the Time for Love series, along with my impressions of it.  In honor of this book release make sure to fill out the form for the chance to win a print copy of the first book in this series and an e-copy of another previous Ms. Lopez title too!

A lot can happen in 3 Seconds. It's the space of time between walking onstage and stepping up to the mic. It’s that moment when your eyes meet across a crowded room and the chemistry between you is undeniable.
Bronagh has accomplished a lot in her thirty-five years. A successful pub owner and happy divorcée, she's learned to enjoy life, but have realistic expectations. Her past has taught her that it's best not to depend on others, but that doesn't mean she won't sample a tasty morsel when it's right in front of her.
After taking a break from culinary school to travel abroad, Brendan is back and eager to finish what he started. Although he relishes the nights he gets to play with his brothers in their band, and enjoys their healthy supply of groupies, he's ready to start acting like the twenty-something that he is…a fact he craves to prove with Bronagh.
What starts as a one-night-stand becomes more when Bronagh and Brendan realize that they can't walk away. But can a younger man who's prone to late nights and scantily-clad women convince a woman who's been hurt that age doesn't matter, and he's the man she needs?

EXCERPT:

“Okay, Bronagh, what’s the big emergency?” my friend Ming asked when we were all settled in the corner booth of mine and my da’s pub. “Not that I’m not always up for drinks, but you made it sound like you’d just found out that Henry Cavill is gay, and all hope for your future together was lost.”
I smiled half-heartedly at her joke, but my mind was too boggled to fully appreciate her quick wit.
I figured it was best to just rip the Band-Aide off quickly and get straight to the part where they agreed that I was right, and needed to forget that I’d ever seen Brendan naked.
As if that could ever happen…
“I went home with that lead singer the other night, had fan-freaking-tastic sex, and it turns out he’s one of my students at the culinary school.” That said, I let out a long breath, then picked up my dirty martini and took a swift drink.
“Yay!” Cass, the third member of our trio, shrieked, startling me with her exuberance.
I gave her the stink eye over my glass.

BUY LINKS:  iBOOKS  |  AMAZON  |  SMASHWORDS  |  BN  |  KOBO


MY IMPRESSIONS OF THIS BOOK:

As a reader, and an older woman myself, I was drawn to this older woman/younger man theme and charmed from the first page to the last thanks to a sweet and sexy hero and strong-willed heroine.  Though there's a bit of familiarity to the overall storyline it was a feeling of comfort that surrounded me and made this an immensely enjoyable read.  It may be the sixth installment in the Time for Love series but stands strongly on its own due to the compelling and likable secondary characters, engaging dialogue, and its sweet and sensual romance.  After reading this I definitely plan on starting the series from the beginning as the glimpses of past characters has me dying to know their stories and excited for what the future brings to the new characters as well.

Bronagh's a confident woman moving on from a recent divorce, talented and doing what she loves in teaching culinary school.  What better way to move on than the sexy younger man rockin' it out on stage.  After a scorching night together they both know they want more but real life invades with issues that could tear them apart before they've barely begun.  Bronagh's a strong-willed woman who knows that her biological clock is ticking and doubts Brendan's ready to commit.  She also worries about the perceived improprieties of being his teacher.  These issues are understandable and addressed in a believable way that's the first hint at the maturity of Brendan beyond his years that gives you hope that they can have a HEA.  I liked Bronagh wholeheartedly as she's smart, funny, with a zest for living.  Her interactions with her girlfriends were an added bonus that brought forth more humor and had me identifying even more with her.  Their interactions were supportive and brought a smile to my face as they're the kind of friends you want for yourself.

Brendan's another new addition to my list of book boyfriends as he's sweet, sexy, and oozes charm.  Once he sees Bronagh he knows he has to have her and is single-minded in his pursuit of her.  He's talented too with his culinary and musical skills which made him a favorite amongst the ladies.  He only had eyes for Bronagh though and I enjoyed their sensual tango.  On a whole he's a hard man to resist and Bronagh thankfully doesn't put up much of a fight as their connection is crackling and teems with sexual tension.  Brendan may be young in years but he knows what and who he wants out of life which had me cheering him on from the moment I saw him. His interactions with his brothers was equally entertaining as that of Bronagh and her friends with their playful and chiding banter which further charmed me and left me wanting to see more of his brothers.

From start to finish this story held me captivated with its sweet and sexy romance, immensely appealing main and secondary characters, and realistic yet familiar storyline.  The romance too was sensual as Brendan showed even more talents in the bedroom.  Theirs is a romance that was scorching yet sweet that didn't gloss over the age difference but dealt with it head-on with their families having a vested interest as well.  It all made for a fun and flirty read with promises of more to come.  This was my first time reading Ms. Lopez but won't be the last as I enjoyed the family and friend dynamics she lovingly crafted which is just one of many reasons to recommend this book and series!

My rating for this is an A.

*I got this book from the author for review in exchange for my honest opinion.

AUTHOR INFO:

Award-Winning Author Bethany Lopez began self-publishing in June 2011. She's a lover of all things romance: books, movies, music, and life, and she incorporates that into the books she writes. When she isn't reading or writing, she loves spending time with her husband and children, traveling whenever possible. Some of her favorite things are: Kristen Ashley Books, coffee in the morning, and In N Out burgers.

**********GIVEAWAY**********

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