Category: Kelly’s Review

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Kelly’s review of Forever A Lord by Delilah Marvelle

TITLE: Forever A Lord – The Rumor Series #3
AUTHOR: Delilah Marvelle
Characters: Lord Nathaniel James Atwood & Lady Imogene Norwood
PUBLICATION DATE: 12/18/2012
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Lady Imogene Norwood lives a sheltered life of quiet respectability and routine…until she meets the wild and broken Lord Atwood. He is wholly unexpected among London’s elite, and the very shy English rose suddenly realizes that a little chaos might just be what her heart desires.

Lord Nathaniel James Atwood doesn’t believe true love exists. Since scandal tore him away from his family at an early age, he has spent his life fighting for what he wants. That attitude has made him a rising star in bare-knuckle boxing, and now leads him back to London to reclaim the life that was stolen from him. But upon meeting the innocent Imogene, his beliefs are trounced…as guarding his heart against her proves to be the fight of his life.

REVIEW:
As the final book in Delilah Marvelle’s Rumor series Forever a Lord brings us full circle with the story of what happened to Lord Nathaniel Atwood. if you have read the Rumor series today (which I would highly recommend you read this series in order) we all know that Lord Atwood went missing when he was just a young boy. What we didn’t know was the why, how and where he has been. Until now.

Forever a Lord gives us these answers. Yet this story so much more then what just happened to Lord Atwood as a child. Throughout the series we have seen Nathaniel yet never knew he really was. Nathaniel learns a lot about himself in this book and learns that love, trust and forgiveness are very important if one is to ever truly be happy. Lady Norwood is a great fit for Lord Atwood. She is kind, understanding and stands up to Lord Atwood when it is necessary.

I am happy that Atwood finally got his Happily Ever After, but I am sad that this series is over. I am still upset with Delilah for killing off one of my favorite characters early on. But I forgive you D. Over all I really, really enjoyed this series and it is now on my keeper, read over again shelf.

If you have not started the Rumor series I would suggest you start with the Novella Forever Mine and go from there.

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.

4 Hearts
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Kelly’s review of The Cat’s Meow by Stacey Kennedy

TITLE: The Cat’s Meow – Witch’s Brew #1
AUTHOR: Stacey Kennedy
Characters: Libby & Kale
PUBLICATION DATE: 12/13/12
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Libby is an Enchantress—a witch gifted by the Goddess to conjure spells. When a magical presence is detected around a recent string of feline slayings, Libby takes the case to uncover the reasons behind the odd deaths. Much to her displeasure, the coven also sends a sexy warlock, Kale, to assist her.

While having the muscle around proves to be useful, fighting the attraction between them is worse than a hex, especially considering Kale is keeping secrets. But soon, Libby has bigger problems than the elusive warlock when her spells turn up clues that point to something far more sinister than slaughtered cats.

Now Libby has landed herself in the midst of an uprising. She trusts no one and isn’t safe—not from the warlocks stirring up trouble. Not from the worrisome rebellion she can’t escape. And certainly not from Kale, who is weaving a very dangerous spell over her heart.

REVIEW:
When evil comes knocking on your door you have two choices. Run or Open the door and kick it’s evil backside off your porch. Libby finds herself in this very dilemma in The Cat’s Meow. But Libby is about to learn she has a very good back up plan in the form of a warlock that doesn’t take no for an answer.

This was a fun book. I will admit that the book started just a little slow for me. But as the book went on it got better and better. I really liked the world that Stacey developed and love the cast of characters she brought to life. And I am looking forward to what is next in the Witch’s Brew Series.

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.

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Kelly’s review of A Taste Of Ice by Hanna Martine

TITLE: A Taste of Ice – Elements #2
AUTHOR: Hanna Martine
Characters: Xavier & Cat
PUBLICATION DATE: 12/31/12
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
There is an untapped world of magic that any man would covet…

Five years ago, Xavier escaped from the Ofarian Plant. Today he calls a Colorado mountain town home. It’s there he buries himself in his work, swearing off magic and relationships—until a woman threatens every promise he’s made to himself.

Cat has always known she is different. Water speaks to her on an uncanny level, and she channels this gift into beautiful painted waterscapes. Now, a gallery is debuting her work in Colorado—and it’ll reveal far more about her than she imagined.

The spark between Cat and Xavier is enough to throw both of them off balance. Every tantalizing moment sends them dangerously close to a rising flood of desire. Dangerous because Xavier comes to suspect that Cat is an Ofarian—his people’s enemy. But they’re both about to discover a far greater, more malicious power at play.

REVIEW:
I am really on the fence about this book. I think I really should have read book one Liquid Lies first. I think there was more history with the Element world and the main character Xavier’s history.

I enjoyed this book, but didn’t love. I liked Xavier and Cat but never really connected with them. I am not sure what it was about this book. It just didn’t suck me in. I do plan on going back and reading book one and then maybe I should read book two again and see if I feel the same way. I will be planning on reading the next book in this series too.

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.

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Kelly’s review of Stolen by Shiloh Walker

TITLE: Stolen
AUTHOR: Shiloh Walker
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/30/12
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Shay Morgan has stayed hidden for a long time. Living a reclusive life in Earth’s End, Alaska, she’s as far away as she can get from the trauma of her childhood and the man who hurt her long ago. But terror takes over Shay’s life yet again when an unknown stalker steals away the fragile peace she’s built for herself—targeting not only her but the one man who’s ever managed to get past the walls she’s built around herself.

Elliot Winter has lived through being falsely accused before—it ruined his military career. Now it’s happening all over again. And this time, his accuser is a twisted impostor who’s targeting his ex-girlfriend, Shay. Despite a fierce mutual attraction, Shay and Elliot broke up because Shay couldn’t let her guard down, couldn’t let Elliot in. But now they both need to trust each other to confront a psycho who seems to know all their secrets

REVIEW:
Shay Morgan has had anything but a storybook life. Her childhood is something made of nightmares and her adult life is not going much better. Recovering from a car accident, breaking up with her boyfriend, her best friend is starting to act really strange and to top it all off someone is impersonating her.

Shay will soon learn that she has to step out of her comfort zone in order to protect herself from this most recent threat. But can Shay let the past go long enough to truly trust the only person in her life that is worth her trust?

This was a great story. Messed up, but a great story. Even when I learn the who, the what and the why I was still dying for more. I didn’t want to put this book down until the last page was read.

Really Good!! If you love a good romantic suspense you really should pick up a copy of Stolen.

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

4 Hearts
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Kelly’s review of One Night With A Hero by Laura Kaye

TITLE: One Night with a Hero
AUTHOR: Laura Kaye
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/20/2012
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
He wants just one night…

After growing up with an abusive, alcoholic father, Army Special Forces Sgt. Brady Scott vowed never to marry or have kids. Sent stateside to get his head on straight—and his anger in check—Brady’s looking for a distraction. He finds it in his beautiful new neighbor’s one-night-only offer for hot sex, but her ability to make him forget is addictive. Suddenly, Brady’s not so sure he can stay away.

…what they need is each other.

Orphaned as a child, community center director Joss Daniels swore she’d never put herself in a position to be left behind again, but she can’t deny herself one sizzling night with the sexy soldier who makes her laugh and kisses her senseless. When Joss discovers she’s pregnant, Brady’s rejection leaves her feeling abandoned. Now, they must overcome their fears before they lose the love and security they’ve found in each other, but can they let go of the past to create a future together?

REVIEW:
Brady, Brady, Brady……
One Night with a Hero is Laura Kaye’s follow up to her Forbidden Hero story. Brady is Alyssa’s big brother and this boy has some major demons of his own.

In One Night with a Hero Brady tried to drowned his self-imposed sorrows in that of a very feisty and super cute Joss. But when Brady finds that his one night stand is living next door he can’t help but go back for seconds, then instantly regrets his actions.

But will seconds be enough?

There is just something about Joss that draws Brady, but he is too darn stubborn to take a chance. And therefore does everything he can to distance himself from her.

Brady is a beyond stubborn and a bit of an a$$. Yes, he has some issues from his past. The way he treats Joss at times made me want to slap him upside the head. Joss is a big girl and really does know how to take care of herself. But protecting your heart is a totally different situation. There are some thing a girl should not have to deal with on her own. But when push comes to shove Joss knows how to shove back.

Over all I really liked this story and very glad that Laura gave us Brady’s story

Disclaimer:
I purchased this book. The following review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

4 Hearts
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Kelly’s review of Last Kiss Goodnight by Gena Showalter

TITLE: Last Kiss Goodnight – Other World Assassin #1
AUTHOR: Gena Showalter
Character: Soloman Judan & Vika Lukas
PUBLICATION DATE: 12/24/12
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
The breathtaking first novel in New York Times best selling author Gena Showalter’s new paranormal romance series, Otherworld Assassins, featuring a black ops agent who is captured and enslaved…and the beautiful deaf girl who holds the key to his salvation…

THE SWEETEST TEMPTATION…

Black ops agent Solomon Judah awakens caged and bound in a twisted zoo where otherworlders are the main attraction. Vika Lukas, the owner’s daughter, is tasked with Solo’s care and feeding. The monster inside him yearns to kill her on sight, even though she holds the key to his escape. But the human side of him realizes the beautiful deaf girl is more than she seems—she’s his.

THE ULTIMATE PRICE…

Vika endures the captives’ taunts and loathing, hoping to keep them alive even if she can’t free them. Only, Solo is different—he protects her. But as hostility turns to forbidden romance, his feelings for her will be used against him…and he’ll be put to a killer test.

REVIEW:
I have not had the chance to read Gena’s Alien Huntress series yet, which Last Kiss Goodnight is a spin off of. I will say that I don’t think that you have to have read Gena’s the Alien Huntress series first. Gena does a good job of explaining the world. But I think if you did read them you would have a greater understanding of the world.

That being said I am on the fence about this book. I loved the setting, the idea, and a good majority of the characters. Solo & Vika are great together and apart. But I will admit that I was bored more than once while reading. Maybe I was tired. But there didn’t seem to be the same amount of action or sexual tension as I have found in past books of Gena’s. But overall I did enjoy. Really like the ending and the tension. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

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.

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Kelly’s review of We’ll Be Home For Christmas by HelenKay Dimon

TITLE: We’ll Be Home for Christmas
AUTHOR: HelenKay Dimon
PUBLICATION DATE: 03/02/12
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
No man likes having his bedroom skills described as forgettable, but that’s just what Lila Payne does when she runs into Spencer Thomas again. When she discovers that he’d lied about his name during their brief three-day romp a few months before, she’s so angry that she pretends she doesn’t remember him.

Spence regrets his deception, but not as much as he regrets that their time together didn’t last longer. When she shows up in his town, looking to revitalize her uncle’s mountain resort, Spence is determined to help. Maybe rescuing Lila from a hopeless renovation project will get him in her good graces—and back in her bed.

Lila has no interest in being rescued, and Spence is insulted by her stubborn rebuffs and her “faulty” memory. But when rehab work turns into an after-hours meeting, the two of them are in for a night that just might prove unforgettable

REVIEW:
This was a fun novella of two people who are looking for something more out of life. A chance encounter at a hotel, three blissful days together only to part ways. But funny thing about fate when you least expect it she throws you a curve ball.

Since this is a novella. I will just say that I loved this story and would suggest you pick up a copy.
Also this novella can be found in the Romancing the Holiday’s Anthology with 2 other wonderful Christmas novella’s

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.

4 Hearts
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Kelly’s review of She Can Tell by Melinda Leigh

She Can Tell

She Can…. #2
AUTHOR: Melinda Leigh
PUBLICATION DATE: 12/04/12
Characters: Mike O’Connell & Rachel Parker

ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
When a terrible accident abruptly ends her riding career, Rachel Parker returns to Pennsylvania to rebuild her family’s horse farm. But her welcome home is anything but warm. Her sister’s abusive husband and a violent vandal threaten Rachel’s new business and her life. Someone is systematically trying to destroy her. Someone who knows private things about her. Someone who’s been watching her. Now Rachel must face the fact that the sins of her carefully hidden past have returned to haunt her…
Police Chief Mike O’Connell never had trouble drawing the line between his personal life and his job—until he met Rachel Parker. Mike’s investigation uncovers a shocking number of secrets and suspects. But the stalker’s escalating violence convinces him he doesn’t have much time to sort through it all. Whoever is watching Rachel wants her dead. Mike and Rachel race to untangle a web of deceit and lies that stretches two decades into the past—before her stalker strikes again.

REVIEW:
She Can Tell takes us on a wild ride of who done it. Even when you think you know you don’t know.

Whenever I read a suspense book I try so hard to figure out who it the bad guy. In She Can Tell I thought I know who did it, then Melinda throughs something in that makes me questions and rethink myself. Then when I think I have it again she switches the focus on to someone else again. And still I think I know, but oh NO…. that can’t be right.

That being said I really loved She Can Tell. I loved the world Melinda created, the characters she developed and the suspense that she infuses in this story. I can’t wait to see what Melinda has in store for us next.

If you love a good romance suspense and have not tried Melinda Leigh yet, I would highly recommend you go pick up a copy of She Can Tell.

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.

4 Hearts

 

Learn more about Melinda Leigh’s Promo tour here

12/07 – Paranormal Haven
12/13 – United by Books
12/19 – Books-n-Kisses – Review
12/26 – All Things Books – Review

01/03 – Book Lovin’ Mamas – Review
01/14 – Romance Crush Junkies – Review
01/18 – The Reading Café – Review
01/23 – Cocktails and Books – Review

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SHE CAN RUN

Series:  She Can…,  Book 1
Publisher: Montlake Romance
Publication date:  November 28, 2011
Purchase Links:  Amazon / B&N

 One bad decision turned a single mom into a fugitive.

Ten months ago, Elizabeth Baker uncovered a dangerous secret about her politician husband—a secret that nearly got her killed. Now she and her children are running for their lives. When Beth is hired as the caretaker of a remote Pennsylvania estate, she dares to hope she has found a corner of the world where Congressman Richard Baker can’t find them. But when her new boss dies suddenly and his nephew inherits the estate, Beth is faced with outwitting a former homicide detective who is very smart, very suspicious—and very attractive.

Forced into retirement by an injury and grieving the loss of his uncle, Jack O’Malley is unprepared to share his new home with a strange woman and her two kids. He is even less prepared for the instantaneous attraction he feels whenever Beth enters the room. She is beautiful, intelligent, kind…and obviously terrified of someone or something. As Jack’s investigation uncovers the shocking details of Beth’s past, the rural community is shaken by the murder of a local woman  Driven by instinct and desire, Jack is determined to keep Beth and her children safe, even if doing so means putting his heart—and his life —on the line.

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Kelly’s review of Deliver Me From Temptation by Tes Hilaire

TITLE: Deliver Me From Temptation – Paladin Warriors #2

AUTHOR: Tes Hilaire
PUBLICATION DATE:12/4/12

ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Logan Calhoun is the last full-blooded Paladin, the future leader of a race of immortal warrior angels. The heavy responsibility of continuing the Paladin line falls to him, and the last thing he should do is get involved with a human. Then fate throws Jessica Waters, a homicide detective who doesn’t believe in fate or divine intervention, into his path. Her devotion lies in her Glock and a good set of handcuffs. Like Logan, she’s a warrior for her people, and she awakens within him something he’d never thought he’d feel. But she’s also as human as they come

REVIEW:
Deliver Me From Temptation (DMFT) is Tes Hilaire’s second book in her Paladin Series. I liked this book, but didn’t love it. Really for me it was not until the very end that I really felt anything for Jessica (our heroine). Logan, I really liked him in book one (Deliver Me From Darkness) and thought that he lived up to who I thought he should be.

I did like the twist that Tes put on the end of the book. That being said I did like the book, didn’t love. But I am looking forward to seeing where the Paladin series goes next.

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

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Kelly’s review of Rescue My Heart by Jill Shalvis

TITLE: Rescue My Heart
AUTHOR: Jill Shalvis
PUBLICATION DATE: 11/06/12
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
After a tragic stint in the National Guards, Adam Connelly returns to Idaho and to Belle Haven, the animal shelter he owns with his brothers. All Adam wants is to be alone. Then he opens the door to the past—the woman whose heart he once broke. Still gorgeous, still tough-as-nails, but this time, unusually vulnerable.

Holly Reid learned the hard way to never depend on a man for anything. Now, of all men, it’s the last one she wants to see, and the only one she needs. Her father has gone missing in the Bitterroot Mountains and she could use someone with tracking skills to help find him.

For Holly and Adam, each with their ghosts, a trek this desperate, this unpredictable, and this intimate, will have its share of risks—including opening their hearts one more time.

REVIEW:
4.5 Stars I am convinced that Jill Shalvis can do no wrong when it comes to writing a romantic story. Jill really knows how to suck us into a story and then never let us go until we are completely satisfied. Rescue My Heart does just that. Sucks you in and hangs on tight. Besides who doesn’t love a great second chance at love story?

Adam & Holly were in love one wonderful summer in their younger years, but fate and stubbornness drove them apart. So after so much time apart Holly fears that if she asks Adam for help he will say no. But what she doesn’t know is how much Adam still loves and misses her.

Adam as tough as he is thought that he was prepared for anything. That was until the love of his life walks back in and asks for help to find her missing father. Adam is powerless to tell her no, but does tell her he will find her father on his own. It is no surprise that Adam finds he has a stow-away in the back of his vehicle.

These two go on a journey not only looking for Holly’s dad, but to learn more about each other. Why things went so wrong in the past and to learn that sometimes being stubborn might just get you everything you want
As I said before, I think Jill can do no wrong with her books. I have yet to pick up one of her books and not fall completely in love with the characters. Rescue My Heart is such a good book. If you are a fan of Jill’s you really should pick up a copy of Rescue My Heart and fall in love with Adam & Holly. While this is part of the Animal Magnetism series it is easily read as a stand alone book

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

4 Hearts
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Kelly’s review of Heart Of A Soldier by Tamara Hoffa

TITLE: Heart of a Soldier
AUTHOR: Tamara Hoffa
PUBLICATION DATE: 09/21/12
ORDER LINKS: Amazon

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Soldier Jameson Hunter faces the battle of his life: winning the heart of Charlotte Mackenzie, widowed mother of a young recruit.

REVIEW:
Since this was a short novella I will keep my review short (mostly because I don’t like to give spoilers)and say. If you love a good quick read about a second chance for love I would recommend picking up a copy of  Heart of a Soldier. Only down side to being so short is that I was left wanting more, wanting to know how things are going with these two. But isn’t that what a good short story should do?

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

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Kelly’s review of Under The Mistletoe by Jill Shalvis

TITLE: Under the Mistletoe – Lucky Harbor #6.5 (Novella)
AUTHOR: Jill Shalvis
PUBLICATION DATE: 12/4/12
ORDER LINKS: Under the Mistletoe| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
JUST ONE MORE KISS

There’s no place like home for the holidays. And the Lucky Harbor Bed & Breakfast is bursting with festive lights and good cheer. But for Mia, Christmas is turning out to be anything other than merry and bright. Her recent break-up with her boyfriend Nick has made her return bittersweet. But then a surprise arrives, when Nick follows her to town bearing gifts-and asking for forgiveness.

Nick grew up without a family of his own so he’s overwhelmed by the love that Mia receives from all her relatives, gathered together to celebrate the season. Under their watchful eyes, Nick finds earning back her trust the hardest thing he’s ever had to do. If he succeeds, he will receive the greatest gift of all, Mia’s love for a lifetime.

REVIEW:
Another great story from Jill. Under the Mistletoe takes us back into the lovely little town of Lucky Harbor for a wedding.

We get to meet Mia & Nick. Who are both a little gun shy when it comes to family and love. Both have had to deal with the loss of family and love in the past. But Mia is ready to move on and is looking for her happily ever after. The question is: Is Nick ready? Or will he turn tail and run?

This was a very quick read and I loved every page. Nick & Mia are so sweet together. Because when you finally find your one true love you are willing to do anything for them. Even if that means facing your fears.

I always love to be back in Jill’s town of Lucky Harbor. If you are fan of Jill’s and love the Lucky Harbor series you will love this novella.

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

4 Hearts