Winter Romance Wednesday! Kelly reviews Some Kind Of Wonderful by Beth Ciotta

TITLE: Some Kind of Wonderful: A Holiday Novella
SERIES #: Cupcake Lovers #3.5
CHARACTERS: Zachary Cole & Maya Templeton
AUTHOR: Beth Ciotta
PUBLICATION DATE: October 22, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Have yourself a scrumptious, small-town Christmas with this special Cupcake Lovers holiday novella, Love on a Winter’s Night!

Growing up in Sugar Creek, Maya Templeton and Zachary Cole were best friends. After high school, each went out into the world in search of adventure. Maya moved to Florida to explore her passion for baking and pastry-making, eventually establishing her own business:

Cupcakes & Dreamscapes. Zach joined the military and became a Marine Scout Sniper. Now, after years apart, they’re both going home for the holidays. They don’t seem to have much in common anymore. In fact, Zach seems to have the hots for Maya’s business partner. But when the two get stranded together during a blizzard, they are forced to reexamine their connection. Are Maya and Zach better off “just friends”—just as they were when they were young? Or could it be that true love was there all along?

REVIEW:
3.5 Hearts This was a fun quick Cupcake Lover’s read. Maya & Zach have been friends for years. The best of friends, but never anything more. But when the holiday’s bring them back together fire works spark.
Since this is a novella I am not giving you more than that. But if you love Beth’s other Cupcake Lover’s stories you will enjoy Some Kind of Wonderful.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley & St. Martin’s Press in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

December 2, 2013November 24, 2013

Winter Romance Review! Kelly reviews Where The Heart Is by Darcy Burke

TITLE: Where The Heart Is
SERIES #: A Ribbon Ridge Novella
CHARACTERS: Derek Sumner & Chloe English
AUTHOR: Darcy Burke
PUBLICATION DATE: December 1, 2013

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Home is more than a place . . .

Breaking free from her structured life, Chloe English quits her high-powered job and moves across the country to work as an art teacher. The simple life is all she hoped it would be until her house burns down, leaving her homeless. When a handsome firefighter swoops in to save the day, she can’t believe her luck. He’s laid-back and unassuming, everything she’s looking for in a man—or so he seems. It turns out he’s as ambitious as her ex, comes with a family who could be more stifling than hers, and harbors dark secrets he may never be able to share.

Orphaned as a teenager, Derek Sumner has found a place in his best friend’s family. However, the love and support of his surrogate parents and siblings can’t erase the grief and loss he struggles every Christmas to banish. But this year he meets the fun and sexy Chloe, whose optimism and sense of joy are incredibly contagious. Can she help him face his bleak past so they can forge a happy future?

REVIEW:
4.25 HEARTS Chloe has finally gotten out from under the finger of her family. While she loves them she just can handle not living up to the expectation they put on her. Finally happy in the small down of Ribbon Ridge Chloe sees the future is going to be bright. Except that brightness seems to be coming from the fact that her house is on fire.

Derek has for a long time felt like a lone wolf. Oh he has a family that loves him, even if they are his adopted family. But something is missing in his life and he has yet to figure out what it is. But that is all going to change with a sad twist of fate. It is hard to believe that a fire could ever end in something so good, but only if Derek is willing to take that leap of faith.

This was a great novella. I really loved Derek & Chloe. Both have some baggage that they wish the didn’t, but that just made them more real. I will say that Chloe is beyond patience, more patience than I would have been. But in the end I think it was her patience that was able to finally break down the walls that surround Derek. Okay that is all you get from me. If you want to know more about what happens you will just have to pick up a copy of Where The Heart Is. I am very much looking forward to the next book in this series.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley & Intrepid Reads in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

November 29, 2013November 24, 2013

Kelly reviews Fear For Me by Cynthia Eden

TITLE: Fear For Me: A Novel of the Bayou Butcher
CHARACTERS: Anthony Ross & Lauren Chandler
AUTHOR: Cynthia Eden
PUBLICATION DATE: November 12, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
She’s the obsession two men share: one wants her love, the other wants her life.
A shared passion for justice first brought Baton Rouge district attorney Lauren Chandler and US marshal Anthony Ross together—when each played their part in bringing down the infamous Bayou Butcher. The sparks flying between the two made it clear they weren’t just a legal dream team. Then desire had to make way for duty, and what they had was done. But it would never be over.
Five years later, it’s none other than the Butcher who gets things started again, when his shocking jailbreak reunites the lawyer and the lawman…and reignites their love. But this time, the pair is in danger of being permanently parted—by a killer with revenge on his mind, and Lauren on the top of his list. As a new wave of terror sweeps through the streets and swamps of Baton Rouge, one man will pit his boundless passion against another relentless hate, for the life of the woman who obsesses them both.

REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts
5 years.
5 years he has waited.
5 years he has planned and today is the day that he will finally get his revenge on those who put him here.

This was a disturbingly good story. I have often said that the mind of a suspense author is a very scary place to be. Cynthia Eden has proven that again with Fear For Me. If you have read Die For Me: A Novel of the Valentine Killer, you will see a few familiar names in Fear For Me. But if you have not read Die For Me yet, I would suggest that you do. Fear For Me my hold a spoiler.
I really enjoyed this book and the twists and turns made me a little afraid to close my eyes and try to sleep. While I feel a little strange saying that I can’t wait for Cynthia’s next serial killer. I am looking forward to Scream For Me (Feb 4, 2014)

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley & Montlake Publishing in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

November 28, 2013November 3, 2013

Kelly reviews Window by Michele Renae

TITLE: Window
SERIES #: Paris Secrets #1
CHARACTERS:
AUTHOR: Michele Renae
PUBLICATION DATE: Oct 22, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
An erotic romance behind glass

The first time she sees her new neighbor, his sexy smile arouses her curiosity — and her desires. His hard, chiseled muscles and playful invitations are irresistible.

Bared before their windows, framed and displayed above the streets of Paris, they embark upon a provocative affair.

Their daring game of exhibitionism lures her back for more and more, and she quickly realizes he is the man she has dreamed about.

Yet she’s never heard his voice. Never felt his touch. Never thought she’d experience something this exquisite.

Or this bold…

Paris Secrets
Do you dare?

REVIEW:
3.5 Hearts Window is an interesting twist on an erotic romance story. Two people, two windows, no touching, no talking yet a relationship of sorts has started. But the question is how will it end? I enjoyed this book. It is very different than your normal boy meets girl romance. That alone is refreshing. I am glad that I pick up this book and gave it a try. I am looking forward to seeing what Michele has next in this series. I really hope that the hero & heroine will finally take that step and move their relationship to the next level.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

November 26, 2013November 22, 2013

Interview with Laura Kaye

Happy Release Day to Laura Kaye!!

HARD AS IT GETS is one steamy read! How did you first get into writing?

Thanks so much! And thanks for having me here! I’ve been a writer all my life. I’m a historian by training, so writing non-fiction was a part of my job for the fifteen years I worked as a college professor. But I started writing fiction in 2008 in kind of an unusual way. I hit my head on July 4, 2008. I didn’t think much of it that day, but soon after I realized I’d really hurt myself, and it turned out I had a minor traumatic brain injury. As I recovered, I was filled with an amazing urge to be creative, so I started taking guitar lessons (still not very good at that!) and wrote my first novel in 12 weeks (fortunately, I’m better at that LOL!). The experience of writing that first book was truly transformative. It was what I was supposed to be doing, so I revised that book until it sold and kept writing new ones. And I haven’t looked back since!

Why did you choose to write romance?

I had been an avid reader of paranormal romance for years at that point, so I wrote what I loved. But I also picked romance—unconsciously, I think—because to me it’s an incredibly hopeful genre. Romance stories are inherently stories about people who can’t find love or think they don’t deserve it who overcome the odds and find it in the end. In the years leading up to starting writing, I experienced a number of very hard personal losses, so writing in this genre was one way I worked through those issues.

What does “Hard Ink” refer to? What importance do tattoos play in your story?

Hard Ink is the name of the Rixey brothers’ tattoo shop in the Hard Ink series. Nick and Jeremy Rixey are co-owners, though Nick (the hero of book one, Hard As It Gets) prefers to be more of a silent partner, despite Jeremy’s efforts to put Nick’s artistic talents to work. In this series, tattoos are a way people remember, pay penance, or highlight what’s important to them. The act of creating permanent marks on skin has deep meaning to them. And the shop creates a gritty setting where diverse kinds of people meet and interact in the series. I really love it!

Describe Becca—what do you love most about her? And Nick?

I’d love to! Because I really loved writing these characters!

Becca Merritt is smart and strong and honest and protective. I really loved the way she was willing to stand up for those she loves, even against people and forces who might be stronger and even a little scary. There’s a scene in particular when she dresses down Nick’s Special Forces teammates after a fist fight where I was particularly cheering for her! LOL

Nick Rixey is, omg, so freaking hot, you guys! He’s brooding and tortured and honorable and when he falls he falls so hard. I especially loved Nick’s mix of hard, alpha edges with his artistic side. When Nick shows Becca what her idea for a tattoo might look like on her skin, it’s just scorching!

What significance does the military play in the book?

Military themes are central to the whole Hard Ink series. The military isn’t just sexy window dressing nor is it just there to provide an intriguing backstory. The prior SF guys are this series are entirely defined by their military experience good and bad. It informs their identity, their sense of honor and duty, their view of the world, and of course gives them the skill set required to fight the battles they face in the series. The overall series mystery the characters are working to solve revolves around a military conspiracy in Afghanistan, so even though they’re out of the Army, the military themes are central.

If you could describe your book in a 140 character tweet, what would it be?

In #HardAsItGets, an ex-soldier joins forces w/his dead commander’s daughter to regain his tarnished honor & save her brother from a gang

Is there a particular author or book that has influenced your writing?

There are a number of authors that have influenced me, but if I had to pick one it would be J.R. Ward. A lot of what I know about how to write sexy, authentic male point of view comes from reading her books. And I definitely learned the importance of a good bromance to a romance novel from her Black Dagger Brotherhood series, too. Given my ginormous fangirling, you can only imagine how flipping excited I was when this happened:

“Edgy, sexy, and full of suspense! A great read from a great new author!”

~J.R. Ward on Hard As It Gets

You guys, I bawled like a baby in the middle of a huge workshop put on by my publisher. For real. LOL

What advice would you give aspiring writers looking to get into the publishing industry?

Here’s my advice:

1) Write, write, write. You can’t revise what you haven’t written and you can’t sell what you haven’t written. And the psychological and emotional boost you’ll get from writing “The End” for the first time cannot be overestimated.

2) Revise, revise, revise. That first time you type “The End”? Yeah, you’re nowhere near done. Your book will need to be edited, by you, several times before you ever put it in front of an agent or editor. You get one shot with them, so don’t waste it by not showing them your very best and most polished work.

3) Find critique partners. And your mom, siblings, and best friend do not count (unless you’re really lucky, like me, and your best friend happens t also be a professional author). You need other aspiring writers in your genre who will give you honest but constructive feedback about how to improve your manuscript. Let them catch all the embarrassing goofs and plot holes you thought you caught before it gets to an agent or editor.

4) Want to be a professional, then act it. And by that I mean join the professional organization(s) of the genre in which you write. Through them you will find classes to help hone your craft, critique partner match-ups, networking opportunities, calls for submission, and other opportunities invaluable to breaking into publishing.

5) Don’t give up. You will hear way more no’s than yeses, particularly early in your writing career. Stick with it. Believe in yourself. Give yourself one day to wallow in the rejection and eat a bunch of chocolate and then get right back on the horse. If your first book doesn’t sell, chalk that up to learning and write a second.

What can fans of HARD AS IT GETS look forward to next?

I’m currently writing four series: two contemporary (Hard Ink, Heroes) and two paranormal (Hearts of the Anemoi, Vampire Warrior Kings). I’ll have books from all four of those releasing in 2014. My next release is Hard As You Can (Hard Ink #2) coming 2/25/14!

Introducing Nick and Becca from Hard As It Gets

I am absolutely thrilled to be celebrating the release of my sexy contemporary romance, Hard As It Gets, the first book in my new Hard Ink series. If you like sexy, gritty contemporaries, military heroes and themes, and even a little suspense, Hard As It Gets is the perfect book for you! *grins*

Today, I’d like to introduce you to Nick Rixey and Becca Merritt, the hero and heroine of Hard As It Gets. They just sizzled together on the page and I really enjoyed writing them. I hope you love them, too! So, without further ado, please meet Hard As It Gets’s Nick and Becca:

MEET HERO NICK RIXEY:

Becca’s first impression of Nick:

“I’m Nick Rixey. Who wants to know?”

Becca jumped at the deep sound of the man’s voice. Geez. How long had he been standing there? And, big as he was, how had she not heard him approach? It was like he’d materialized out of thin air.

The surprise of his appearance pounded adrenaline through her system. Her racing pulse had absolutely nothing to do with the bulge of his impressive biceps straining the sleeves of his black T-shirt, the hints of ink just visible on his upper arms, nor with his harsh yet darkly handsome face. And definitely not with the way his jeans hung on those lean hips. Right. Definitely not.

Given who her father was, or had been, this was the type of man she’d expected to find at the end of Charlie’s cryptic note. His dark hair was a little on the long side, but the hard edges and leashed strength of his body clearly read ex-military.

Nick’s Job: Process Server, Part-time Tattoo Artist

3 Words that Describe Nick: Tortured, Alpha, Heroic

3 Things he Loves about Heroine Becca Merritt: Her courage, her compassion, the way she takes away his hurt

Who could play Nick if the book was made into a movie? Tyler Hoechlin hung above my desk for months (in fact, he just may still be there!), so he’s got the look for sure!

MEET HEROINE BECCA MERRITT:

Nick’s first impression of Becca:

Becca Merritt was the all-American girl personified, with her fierce blue eyes and wavy hair the rich color of honey. Bet she tastes as sweet, too. And, damn, that body. It was all he’d been able to do not to gawk at the curves her fitted T-shirt hugged, or trace his eyes over the lace just visible through the thin cotton. It was like the sun had strolled through their front door, casting heat and light all over him. Only the haunted dark circles under her eyes ruined the analogy.

Becca’s Job: ER nurse

3 Words that Describe Becca: Loyal, Compassionate, Strong

3 Things she Loves about Hero Nick Rixey: His intensity (in everything), his strength, his willingness to help her and her brother

Who could play Becca if the book was made into a movie? With her wholesome prettiness, Blake Lively would make a good Becca Merritt!

Do you have a question for either of the characters or their author lady? Ask away and we’d all be happy to chat!

Thanks for reading!

Laura

*****

Hard As It Gets

Hard Ink #1

Nov. 26, 2013
Amazon | B&N

Tall, dark, and lethal…

Trouble just walked into Nicholas Rixey’s tattoo parlor. Becca Merritt is warm, sexy, wholesome — pure temptation to a very jaded Nick. He’s left his military life behind to become co-owner of Hard Ink Tattoo, but Becca is his ex-commander’s daughter. Loyalty won’t let him turn her away. Lust has plenty to do with it too.

With her brother presumed kidnapped, Becca needs Nick. She just wasn’t expecting to want him so much. As their investigation turns into all-out war with an organized crime ring, only Nick can protect her. And only Becca can heal the scars no one else sees.

Desire is the easy part. Love is as hard as it gets. Good thing Nick is always up for a challenge.

Read Chapter 1 of Hard As It Gets

Check out Kelly’s review HERE

About Laura Kaye:

Laura is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over a dozen books in contemporary and paranormal romance. Growing up, Laura’s large extended family believed in the supernatural, and family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses cemented in Laura a life-long fascination with storytelling and all things paranormal. She lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter SignUp

Follow the whole tour HERE:

November 26, 2013November 24, 2013

Kelly reviews Tempting His Mate by Savannah Stuart

TITLE: Tempting His Mate
SERIES #: Crescent Moon Series #3
CHARACTERS: Asher Kincaid & Ella Hayes
AUTHOR: Savannah Stuart
PUBLICATION DATE: November 22, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
She ran from him once…

Wild one night stands are not Ella Hayes’s style, but with her confidence at rock bottom after a devastating betrayal and her painful departure from her jaguar pride, who could blame her for falling into bed with a sexy wolf? She never thought she’d see him again. And never in her craziest dreams did she expect to come face-to-face with him on her first day with the Kincaid wolf pack. Sleeping with Asher had been one of the most intense experiences of her life—but now she wonders if they could have more.

He’s not letting her go again…

Tired of life as a lone wolf, shifter Asher has joined his cousin’s pack. The last person he expected to see was the sexy woman who ran out on him in the middle of the most incredible night of his life. The Ella he meets now is nothing like the wild, sensual woman he let his guard down with, but he likes both sides of the complicated female. But now somebody—or something—sinister is targeting Ella, and Asher moves quickly to get her under his roof and under his protection. Keeping the sexy female safe and proving they belong together are two missions he doesn’t plan to fail. Because this time, he’s playing for keeps.
Length: novella

REVIEW:
A chance meeting at a bar, a wild night together and very polite thank you note will set the balls of fate rolling.

This was a quick enjoyable read. But like any novella you always want more. I really enjoyed Asher & Ella’s story.

Tempting His Mate is book 3 in the Crescent Moon Series and while you can read each as a stand alone it would be more fun to read for the beginning to understand how everyone got to where they are in this book.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

November 26, 2013November 3, 2013

Kelly reviews The Pieces We Keep by Kristina McMorris

TITLE: The Pieces We Keep
AUTHOR: Kristina McMorris
PUBLICATION DATE: November 26, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
In this richly emotional novel, acclaimed author Kristina McMorris evokes the depth of a mother’s bond with her child, and the power of personal histories to echo through generations.
Two years have done little to ease veterinarian Audra Hughes’s grief over her husband’s untimely death. Eager for a fresh start, Audra plans to leave Portland for a new job in Philadelphia. Her seven-year-old son, Jack, seems apprehensive about flying—but it’s just the beginning of an anxiety that grows to consume him.
As Jack’s fears continue to surface in recurring and violent nightmares, Audra hardly recognizes the introverted boy he has become. Desperate, she traces snippets of information unearthed in Jack’s dreams, leading her to Sean Malloy, a struggling US Army veteran wounded in Afghanistan. Together they unravel a mystery dating back to World War II, and uncover old family secrets that still have the strength to wound—and perhaps, at last, to heal.

REVIEW:
3.5 Hearts This is a story of two very different worlds. One set in the present day and the WWII era. But we have two women struggling with love, live and the world around them. Yet some how they are connected.

The Pieces We Keep tells the story of both of these women. Audra is a young widow who is struggling to raise her little boy. But Jack’s night terrors is making life very hard. But the journey that Audra goes on in order to help her son will soon open the doors to a past that and how everything is so connected.

This was another great book by Kristina. I really loved how Kristina took a topic so close to her heart and found through research that the old saying of having an “old soul” is very true. I loved that she was able to take her love of history and mix it with a story that keeps you wanting to turn the page.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

November 25, 2013November 3, 2013

Kelly reviews Hunter’s Moon by Lisa Kessler

TITLE: Hunter’s Moon
SERIES #: Moon #2
CHARACTERS: Aren Sloan & Sasha
AUTHOR: Lisa Kessler
PUBLICATION DATE: Oct 22, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Sasha’s future was stolen from her the moment she was bitten. Now she’s on the run from the Nero Organization that transformed her from a human detective into a shape shifting jaguar assassin.

When a rogue bounty hunter threatens her younger sister, she’ll be forced to fight, and with nowhere else to turn, Sasha will need to trust the one man who has every reason to want her dead.

Aren is a werewolf with a secret. While protecting his twin brother and Alpha of the Pack, he found his one mate for life. Sadly she’s also the jaguar assassin who tried to kill them both. Now Aren is struggling between his animal nature to love and protect her, and his loyalty to the Pack.

REVIEW:
Another really good book by Lisa. I really loved Aren & Sasha’s characters. And if you have not read Moonlight I would suggest you stop here and go grab Moonlight then come back. Moonlight and Hunter’s Moon are very connected and you might feel like you are missing a piece of the puzzle. Be warned below might be a spoiler for you.

Aren & Sasha have a bit of a history. And it is not a very pleasant history. You know with whole tasering, kidnapping, gagging and shooting of body parts these two do not have your typical love at first sight romance. Well it kinda was for Aren, well right after Sasha head butted him that is.
But now the Nero Organization has it’s sights set on Sasha and they are not playing for keeps. This is seek and destroy mission. Aren is determined to do everything in his power to protect Sasha not matter what. But when Sasha’s little sister is used a leverage and now plan has to be formed.

This was a great story. Again we get the story from both Aren & Sasha’s point of view. I am very much looking forward to the next installment in The Moon series. But while I really enjoyed Aren’s story I am so looking forward to Sebastian’s story.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

November 20, 2013November 18, 2013

Guest blogger: Cindy McDonald

Change of Life

I’ve had several bloggers ask me to write the article: A DAY IN THE LIFE OF AN AUTHOR. And while that is kind-of, sort-of an interesting subject—I think I’m going to write an article called: THE DIFFERENCE IN A DAY OF MY LIFE SINCE BECOMING AN AUTHOR—because whoa, has my life changed!

As the bio on the back of my books and on my website reads: For twenty-six years my life whirled around a song and a dance: I was a professional dancer and choreographer for most of my adult life and never gave much thought to a writing career until 2005. What was a day in my life like as professional dancer? Well, it was considerably different than it is now. Let me show you…

When I was a dancer I would get up at my leisure, have a cup of coffee, some breakfast, and then I would work-out with weights and an elliptical for an hour. I would spend the next few hours doing what was required around the house. By 2:30 I was at the auditorium working with the cast of whatever musical I was choreographing, and by 3:45 I was in my car on my way to my dance school to greet my first round of students by 4:00. I would teach an entire schedule of ballet/pointe, jazz, and tap classes until approximately 9:30. I taught at my dance school Monday through Thursday and rehearsed musicals Monday throughSaturday.

Whew! Just thinking about it makes me sweat.

After twenty-six years I was ready to do something else with my life, and in 2005 I had started writing. In 2011 I published the first book of my first series, Unbridled. There are four books in that series thus far with another coming in January of 2014, and of course I now write another series, First Force—the first book from that series has just released, INTO THE CROSSFIRE. In May of 2011 I retired from my dance career. It was a scary proposition to leave the lifestyle that I lived for so long, but change was something that I was ready to embrace.

My life is much different now. It’s…quieter. I get up every morning, drink coffee, workout with weights and my elliptical—sometimes I take my dog for a run, and then I settled in my chair to wrangle with all the social networking sites to market my books. By 11:00am I am usually in my office with my glasses parked on my nose dragging my characters into one debacle or another. It’s quiet…well, until the bullets start flying and my characters are diving for cover. Of course I take time out over the course of the afternoon to check my email, market, market, and more marketing for my books, and then there’s dinner that I must prepare—another change in my life. When I was a dancer I never cooked dinner because I was always at the dance school during the dinner hour. To tell you the truth, teaching myself to prepare dinner every night has been more of a challenge than writing—my husband will gladly confirm that for you.

I’ve experienced a lot of things in the last two years: attending conventions, talking with groups, attending book festivals, and my favorite: virtual book tours—I just love them!

People are always asking me, “Do you miss dance?” Sometimes I do. I miss my students. I miss choreographing musicals, and quite frankly all the applause. Nevertheless I love my books, and I love sharing them with you.

A notorious killer leaves Jack Haliday’s world in shambles.

It has been four years since ex Navy SEAL, Jack Haliday, had an explosive run-in with a biker gang, wounding their leader, Gunner. During those years Jack had acquired everything he ever wanted: a beautiful wife, an adorable daughter, and a lovely home in the suburbs—everything was just about as perfect as it could get, until Gunner returned to twist Jack Haliday’s world inside-out with a vengeance that he could never have prepared for.

Now Jack has a score to settle and he’s got some friends to help him do it!

Purchase your copy at AMAZON.

Discuss this book in our PUYB Virtual Book Club at Goodreads by clicking HERE.

About the Author:

For twenty-six years Cindy’s life whirled around a song and a dance: she was a professional dancer/choreographer for most of her adult life and never gave much thought to a writing career until 2005. She often notes: Don’t ask me what happened, but suddenly I felt drawn to my computer to write about things I have experienced (greatly exaggerated upon of course—I’ve never been murdered!) with my husband’s Thoroughbreds and happenings at the racetrack. Viola! Cindy’s first book series, Unbridled, was born—there are four books to that series so far.

Cindy is a huge fan of romantic suspense series, and although she isn’t one to make New Year’s resolutions, on New Year’s Day 2013 she made a commitment to write one, Into the Crossfire is the first book for her new series, First Force.

People are always asking Cindy: do you miss dance? With a bitter sweet smile on her lips she tells them: Sometimes I do. I miss my students. I miss choreographing musicals, but I love my books, and I love sharing them with you.

For more information, book trailers, and excerpts for all of Cindy’s books please visit her website: www.cindymcwriter.com.

Connect & Socialize with Cindy!

TWITTER | FACEBOOK

*****

Kelly’s review of Into The Crossfire

TITLE: Into the Crossfire
SERIES #: First Focus #1
CHARACTERS: Jack Haliday
AUTHOR: Cindy McDonald
PUBLICATION DATE: September 24, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
It has been four years since ex-Navy SEAL Jack Haliday, had an explosive run-in with a biker gang, wounding their leader, Gunner. During those years, Jack had acquired everything he ever wanted: a beautiful wife, daughter, and a lovely home in the suburbs–everything was just about as perfect as it could get, until Gunner returned to twist Jack’s world inside-out with a vengeance that he could never have prepared for. Now Jack has a score to settle and he’s got some friends to help him do it

REVIEW PROVIDED BY: Kelly
NUMBER OF HEARTS: 3 1/2
REVIEW:
Jack Haliday has always known his job could be dangerous. But he never realized just how dangerous it could end up being until the day that his world was turned completely upside down and he lost everything.

This was an okay book for me. I enjoyed the storyline and the characters but there was something missing for me. I just never really connected with it over all. But fan’s of suspense novels would enjoy this story.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

November 19, 2013November 3, 2013

Kelly reviews Risky by Jo Davis

TITLE: RISKY
SERIES #: Torn Between Two Lovers Novella #2
CHARACTERS: Anna Claire & Joaquin Delacruz
AUTHOR: Jo Davis
PUBLICATION DATE: Nov 19 , 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
TORN BETWEEN TWO LOVERS is a gripping and sexy romance trilogy with a unique twist: Our heroine needs your help to decide who wins her heart…RISKY is the second novella in this sizzling new series, in which two enticing men will vie for Anna’s heart—culminating in a choice that will be determined by reader vote!

Still hurting badly from Grayson Sloan’s betrayal, Anna Claire meets Joaquin Delacruz—and she is completely won over by the wealthy and sophisticated casino mogul. Joaquin is like no one else she’s ever known—insanely sexy, passionate. . .and extremely dangerous.

Joaquin’s fortune is built on crime; but unlike Gray, he hides absolutely nothing from her. Soon she finds herself ensnared in the web of a powerful, magnetic man who can’t—and won’t—promise her forever.

But Joaquin is used to getting what he wants, and he wants Anna. He is even starting to dream of going legit and living a normal life, with Anna by his side. That is, if Anna’s ex, the FBI agent who is his most hated enemy, doesn’t get in his way. . .

So, will you join #TeamJoaquin or #TeamGrayson? Make the informed choice: Check out RAW, the first in the series, and REWARDED, where Anna’s decision will be revealed, in February 2014.

REVIEW:
The second installment in the Torn Between Two Lovers Trilogy finds Anna taking a much needed vacation after Gray’s betrayal. But Anna never thought that she would find comfort in the arms of another. But Joaquin is charming, handsome and very upfront about who he is, his past and what he wants. But is Anna ready to move on? To forget her feelings for Gray? Or is this thing with Joaquin the real deal? But what happens when Anna’s life is put on the line?
Now that you have read RAW & RISKY who will you pick for Anna? Tell Jo. And find out in Feb 2014 for the final novella in the trilogy REWARD. So what team are you?? Me? I am #TeamJoaquin

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

November 18, 2013November 3, 2013

Kelly reviews Warrior’s Revenge by Coreene Callahan

TITLE: Warrior’s Revenge
SERIES #: Warrior’s of the Realm #1
CHARACTERS: Lord Brigham de Mornay & Lady Aurora de Marquise
AUTHOR: Coreene Callahan
NARRATOR: Sue Pitkin
PUBLICATION DATE: June 25, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N | Audible

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
After the death of her parents, Lady Aurora de Marquise is left with no illusions. Stripped of her birthright and betrayed by her uncle, escape is her only option. With her life on the line, she narrowly avoids another murder attempt—only to run headlong into Lord Brigham de Mornay, a man most consider a monster.

With her uncle’s henchmen nipping at her heels, Aurora knows better than to trust a stranger—especially one as compelling as Brigham. Well-honed instincts urge her to flee before his abundant charm takes a nasty turn into aggression—and she ends up neck deep in trouble.

Wary, but undeniably drawn to him, Aurora pits her will against his, challenging his authority every chance she gets. But when her uncle manages to track her, the game of fox and hound takes a perilous turn and she is left with the ultimate choice—surrender to the man who now holds her heart or risk it all trying to escape again.

Gritty and fast-paced, Warrior’s Revenge brings to life the magnificence of the medieval age while exploring the meaning of honor, duty, and nature of true love.

REVIEW:
3.75 Hearts I enjoyed this book. I listened to all but the last two chapters on audio book, because I was impatient and could not wait until the next morning to finish. So since I had Warrior’s Revenge on my kindle I read the last two chapters. So I will start there. Sue Pitkin is not my favorite narrator. She did a good job with the telling of the story and the female voices. But the male voices were just off for me. They didn’t sound quite right.
I can’t really put my finger on it. But even with that I enjoyed the story.
Aurora is fun (even if she likes the words “the big brute” too much). I liked her fighting spirit and her will to survive. I did have to say I really enjoyed the banter between Aurora & Brigham. It was really fun to watch the each of the try to push the other to the breaking point.

Brigham for a better word is a brute. He has been very accustomed to getting his way and never having anyone stand up to him. I loved that Aurora got the better of him time and time again.

I am looking forward to seeing what is next in the Warriors of the Realm series I really want Cam’s story and I want to learn more about Quinlyn, Aurora’s feisty best friend.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

November 15, 2013November 3, 2013

Kelly reviews Moonlight by Lisa Kessler

TITLE: Moonlight
SERIES #: Moon #1
CHARACTERS: Adam Sloan & Lana Turpin
AUTHOR: Lisa Kessler
PUBLICATION DATE: July 15, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Rancher Adam Sloan is more than meets the eye. As the heir to his Pack, the sexy werewolf’s biggest challenge is keeping his kin’s true nature under wraps. But a group of jaguar shifters threatens to reveal the pack, blasting into town killing humans in plain sight. And when he smells one at the local diner, his standing orders are to take her out.

Lana Turpin doesn’t realize she’s a moving target. Raised in the foster system, she only knows that she blacks out during the new moon and wakes up without remembering a thing. But now she’s being tracked by some strange organization that wants her back—even though she’s never stepped foot inside their compound. And the stranger across the diner is watching her like an enemy.

It should be a simple mission for Adam, but when he touches the frustratingly beautiful Lana, his inner wolf howls…mate. Now, the two must find and stop the people who hunt her…and Adam must keep his own family from killing the only woman he will ever love.

REVIEW:
3.5 Hearts The only good jaguar is a dead jaguar. That has been Adam’s moto for a very long time. It is part of Adam’s job to hunt down the jaguars that have been hunting humans in his pack’s territory. But all that is about to change, when Adam’s scents a new jaguar in the area.

Lana has been on the run for months. She knows the new moon is coming and fears where she will end up next. But worse than that are the men that are after her. How long can she keep going on like this at some point her luck is about to run out. No sooner does she think that then a very imposing man walked through the door. But something about him puts her at ease.
Adam & Lana have to fight off an unknown enemy, all while fighting the fact that they should be enemies themselves. The lines have been drawn and there is only one thing left to do when you find that your enemy is your intended mate. Fight like help and hope you both survive.

This was a good book. It took me a while to really get into the story. I am thinking that it was how the book was written. The story is told in first person from both Adam & Lana’s point of views. But after getting use to how the story was being told I started enjoying it more. I am looking forward to the next installment in the Moon series, Aren’s story is next. I do hope that Lisa will write a story about Sebastian.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.