TITLE: Mai Tai For Two
CHARACTERS: Julie & Alan
AUTHOR: Dephine Dryden
PUBLICATION DATE: 05/01/14
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Julie’s Hawaiian Vacay Itinerary!
You and your “work husband” have just won an all-expenses-paid vacation in Oahu. Now the fun begins…
1.Get lei’d. (With flowers, obvi.)
2.Settle into your gorgeous ocean-side cabin. Contemplate living in Hawaii forever.
3.Become overwhelmed with hideous unexplained jealousy when your bestie decides to make sexy moves on your work-husband, Alan.
4.Dismiss jealousy. After all, you’re not interested in Alan “that” way… are you?
5.Avoid joyous dancing when bestie’s ex arrives, and sweeps her off her feet—leaving Alan completely and totally available.
6.Now you’re alone with Alan. Alone. In paradise. Take a deep breath, have a mai tai—or two—and (gulp!) make your move. Be classy.
7.”Accidentally” let Alan peek under your grass skirt.
8.Take off grass skirt.
9. Do Incredibly Naughty And Sexy Things everywhere.
10.And do not think about what happens when you and your work husband go back to reality…
REVIEW:
2 Hearts Trying to be nice I will say this was just not a good story and the writing was even worse. I have read books by Dryden before and while youthful without being YA it has never been like this book. I can’t imagine anyone talking like these people did. I mean really what near thirty year olds say “I like like you not just like you”? The story was cliche’ as well. Just not one I would recommend even as a short read.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
TITLE: Blind Faith
SERIES #: Sin’s Brother #3
CHARACTERS: Nate Dean & Audrey Madison
AUTHOR: Rebecca Zanetti
PUBLICATION DATE: May 6, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
A betrayal he couldn’t forget . . .
For Nate Dean, love is a four-letter word. As part of a secret black-ops military unit, he and his brothers were genetically engineered by the government to be ruthless soldiers with an expiration date. They were loyal only to one another . . . until Nate laid eyes on the woman who stole his heart and blew his world apart. Now, years later, his family is still paying the price for his mistake. But as time runs out, there’s only one person who can save his family: the very woman Nate swore he’d never trust again.
A love she couldn’t deny . . .
The moment Audrey Madison spies Nate across a crowded ballroom, she can barely breathe. He’s just as undeniably sexy as she remembers, yet there’s an edge to him now that’s as irresistible as it is dangerous. When he asks for her help, Audrey can’t refuse. But she has secrets of her own-secrets that, if Nate ever discovers them, may cost them both their lives .
KELLY’S REVIEW:
4.75 Hearts Nate Dean is not only fighting for his life he is fighting for his brothers and the truth. A fight that is close to coming to an end. Nate has a few more things to do before time runs out, find his youngest brother, save Mattie & Shane and make sure the only woman he loves is safe. No matter the cost he must pay.
Book 3 in Rebecca’s Sin Brothers series takes us back into the world of super soldiers, family love and revenge. This was a great book as always Rebecca takes us on a wild journey of the Dean brother’s mission to save the freedom that they fought so hard for. But as time is slowing ticking away and a very deadly deadline looming over them this mission is now in a critical state. Nathan & Audrey’s book has a lot of emotional ups and downs. There is a lot of hurt but a lot more love between these two. The questions is can they overcome the pain from the past to have a future together?
If you have not read the first two books in the Sin Brother series you need to read them before you read Blind Faith. I can’t wait for the next book in this series. The teaser at the end of Blind Faith has my anxiety going 🙂
KIMBERLY’S REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts This is the third in the Sin Brothers series and maybe the best so far. This one starts with Audrey and Nate having known each other and been in love years ago so the connection is pretty instantaneous. As with all the brothers they are diamonds in the rough. Trained to be killers and yet have managed to find their hearts in the process. We didn’t get to see a lot of the brothers from the first two books (Matt and Shane) but when we did the love and commitment between them is one that stands the test. Audrey is an interesting character as well. She is so strong but yet is still a little girl wanting her mothers approval.
As with all of Rebecca’s books this is a page turner. It has the feel of the GhostWalkers feel of Christine Feehan so if you like that series you will enjoy this one too. I can’t wait for the next in the series about Jory. Something tells me he will be the best of the four brothers.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley & Forever (Grand Central Publishing) in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
TITLE: Frisky Business
CHARACTERS: William Barclay & Marley Cartman
AUTHOR: Tawna Fenske
PUBLICATION DATE: May 6, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Marley Cartman is fed up with arrogant rich guys who treat her like garbage, so she vows to only date men with modest paychecks and a little dirt under their nails.
Her new boss, William Barclay, is exactly the kind of man she’s trying to avoid: an eccentric millionaire with duct shape shoes and an unexplained vendetta against her.
But as Will and Marley butt heads over grumpy badgers and phallic artifacts, they discover that sometimes the opposite of what you want is exactly what you need.
KELLY’S REVIEW:
4 Hearts She finally did it… She moved to Bend. She is finally doing what she wants to do. Well kinda, Marley is still trying to convince her dad that he doesn’t know best, trying to keep the secrets of her past secrets and trying hard to avoid her very hot, down to earth and uber rich new boss. Why you ask? Because she is has been burned more than once by a man with money.
Frisky Business is a story about new starts, new love and realizing that you have to grab on to what makes you happy. I loved that Marley thinks that all her man problems will be solved simply by dated a man that doesn’t have tons of money. It made it rather funny when she went on some rather interesting dates. My favorite was the model airplane guy…. hehehe.
This was a fun book. Like all of Tawna’s books you will laugh, cry and wonder how the heck she comes up with this stuff. 🙂 If you are looking for a feel good book you really should pick up a copy of Frisky Business.
KIMBERLY’S REVIEW:
4 Hearts This is a delightful humorous story which I enjoyed very much. I was chuckling/smiling before chapter 3 and didn’t stop most of the story. The humor that is written for Will and Marley is so funny. They are so snide and quick witted. Besides the humor the writing of the story is well done as well.
I have not read anything from this author before but I will be reading her again. While funny the story was also poignant in understanding who you are and what you need to overcome to become that person. I will say that I had a problem with each “average” guy being a jerk or dork. Sure we all want to end up with the millionaire sweetheart average guys are not all bad. I wish there had just been one guy who was average and sweet and a good guy but they just didn’t connect. But that being said I really enjoyed this book very much.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley & Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
TITLE: In Bed With The Boss
CHARACTERS: Trish & Keith
AUTHOR: Alexa Bravo
PUBLICATION DATE: 05/01/14
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Trish Carter is chasing the career opportunity of a lifetime, and nothing is going to stand in her way. After a failed marriage and years of self-doubt, she needs her business proposal to succeed — but there’s one hurdle left: presenting to the Board of Directors and charismatic CEO, Keith Donnelli. So then it can only be the stress and extreme tension that leads her to jump the hot stranger in the elevator…
But the unexpectedly explosive encounter puts all her plans in jeopardy, when the stranger isn’t a stranger at all. Now, her whole future rides on how well she can resist the temptation of sleeping with her boss. Will Trish finally have the chance to make her secret dreams come true or will following her heart destroy her chance at a future?
REVIEW PROVIDED BY: Kimberly NUMBER OF HEARTS: 3 Hearts
REVIEW:
This is a somewhat short story but the problem is that it is very wordy so it seems longer. It is a alright story. The characters have good chemistry. The story is a bit cliche’ but for a short romance it is fine.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
TITLE: Forged
SERIES #: The World of Nightwalkers #4
CHARACTERS: Katrina & Ahnvil
AUTHOR: Jacquelyn Frank
PUBLICATION DATE: 04/29/14
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
When Katrina Haynes discovers a large man lying wounded in the snow, she fears he is at death’s door. But as Kat tends to his injuries, she quickly realizes that they’re the least of her worries. With an irresistible Scottish brogue and a strange ability to harden his chiseled body like a statue, the stranger awakens a desire she is unable to resist—and a fascination about the intriguing world he exists in.
As a proud Gargoyle, Ahnvil must safeguard the Nightwalker to whom he’s sworn fealty. But as this bewitching woman nurses him back to health, arousing an almost uncontrollable hunger within him, he is possessed with the fierce impulse to protect her as well. And he will have to shield her—for by coming to his rescue, Kat has placed herself in the middle of a supernatural war . . . and exposed herself to dark, powerful magic. As human and Gargoyle forge an unbreakable bond, Kat will discover that despite his intimidating strength and size, one thing Ahnvil does not possess is a heart of stone.
REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts I loved this story. I enjoyed the characters very much. I enjoyed the suspense as well as the sexual tension. I did not know this was part of a series until I went to get this information for my review so while it can be a stand alone I will most certainly be working my way backwards to read the first three in the series. I could not put this book down. I read it in one sitting staying up way too late to finish it.
I loved that Ahnvil was a Gargoyle. I have not read a story about them before so having that new twist was so exciting. I enjoyed the way he interacted with Kat. Their connection is very strong right from the start. Kat is a strong woman even though she doesn’t think so.
If you enjoy a paranormal with a twist from the vamps and shifters this is the book you need to pick up. You will not be disappointed.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
TITLE: When We Met
SERIES #: Fools Gold #13
CHARACTERS: Angel Whittaker & Taryn Crawford
AUTHOR: Susan Mallery
PUBLICATION DATE: April 29, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Angel Whittaker earned his scars the hard way, but the scars that can’t be seen are the ones that haunt him the most. Since he moved to Fool’s Gold, California, he’s cobbled together a life for himself as a bodyguard trainer. If he’s not exactly happy, at least his heart is safe.
Working with pro-football superstars taught tough-talking PR woman Taryn Crawford one thing—she can go toe to toe with any man. But then dark, dangerous former Special Ops Angel targets her for seduction…and challenges her to resist his tempting kisses.
Even in four-inch heels, Taryn never backs down. Unless, somehow, Angel can convince her that surrender might feel even better than victory.
KELLY’S REVIEW:
3.5 Hearts Another good story from Susan. I didn’t enjoy this book as much as the past Fool’s Gold books this was still a really good book. I have been wanting to read Angel’s story since he stepped on to the pages. He seems like such a scary dude, but is really a softy at heart. His back story is heart breaking. Tayrn, kinda rubs me the wrong way. I am not sure if it is because she is trying too hard to never be what she once was? Or if she is a little on the stuck up side. But either way I think that Angel & Tayrn made a good couple.
I am looking forward to the next book in the Fools Gold series.
KIMBERLY’S REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts Fool’s Gold is my favorite fictional location and it is always a great time to go back and visit. Susan Mallery is the Queen of Contemporary Romance in my opinion and I love spending time in her world.
This story took me a little bit to get into. Taryn is so “city” that it was hard to see her in a small town but somehow she acclimates to the town and it because part of who she is. Angel is the last in the CDS men and I couldn’t wait to read his story. He has had such an interesting past. Taryn is the best person he could have in his life and I loved their story. I so loved the softer side of Angel. Reading about his Acorns and when he confronts his past was so sweet.
I loved the little changes in this story and yet still keeping with tradition. The dumped party was great. The slogan change of the town is great. What the “boys” want to change it to had me chuckle every time. And I can’t wait for the rest of the football players to get their “happy ending”. I hope the sentence from Mayor Marsha about needing a S&R team is a hint of what 2015 will bring to Fool’s Gold. And on a personal note: Thanks Susan Mallery for mentioning Asheville, NC. I live right outside it and the city is worth a visit.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley & Harlequin in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
TITLE: Half Moon Harbor
SERIES #: Bachelors of Blueberry Cove #2
CHARACTERS: Grace & Brodie
AUTHOR: Donna Kauffman
PUBLICATION DATE: 04/29/14
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Bold, brash, Irish—Brodie Monaghan’s been breaking hearts ever since he arrived in Maine to rebuild the family business. Still, there’s one woman he just can’t wow.
Grace Maddox claims she’s now part owner of Monaghan Shipbuilders, and she has her own dreams for the weathered dockside buildings.
Tiny Blueberry Cove has a way of welcoming strangers with wide open arms, but is the sleepy coastal village ready for the fireworks these two spark?
REVIEW:
I really enjoyed this story. I honestly have to say I really enjoyed Brodie. Talk about a great guy! There was something about Brodie in book #1 (Pelican Point) that every reader knew he had to be the next bachelor to go down and Grace was the perfect fit for him. Brodie is a roll with the flow kind of guy and plays a different role than the alpha type man but yet is not the strong silent type either. But there is just no way to put Brodie into a cliche’ but he is adorable.
Grace is starting over in every aspect of her life and she couldn’t have found a better person to help her down that road than Brodie. I was sad to not see very much with Grace and Ford but I think that is coming in book #3 (Sandpiper Island) so it is something to look forward to.
I love this new series from Donna Kauffman and can’t wait for the next in the series… and the next and the next and the next.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Friends with benefits was never the plan…
Melanie Jacobs is in trouble. With three jobs—including running her ranch—and dwindling funds, she’s exhausted. Not to mention desperately trying to hide a secret. Unfortunately, her best friend Colton Freeze knows all too well that’s something is going on, and he won’t give up until he knows exactly what he needs to fix.
Then Colton learns the truth—that Melanie’s future happiness rests in the fickle hands of fate, and her chances for having a family are shrinking with every passing day. Her only comfort is Colton, but when a heated argument between them turns into an even hotter kiss, the boundaries of their friendship are erased, leaving only a scorching-hot hunger for more.
Every kiss—every touch—is a stolen pleasure. But will their new friends-with-sexy-benefits arrangement bring them closer together, or destroy everything they once shared?
REVIEW:
4.25 Hearts Every time Rebecca Zanetti writes about a cowboy I think I will never love her last guy as much as I loved the one before but here I am wrong again. Colton is the perfect alpha man with a giving heart. He is a fixer and a planner. He needs thing to go by that plan or he really doesn’t get why it fell apart and suddenly Melanie is something he never planned but she has a problem he needs to fix and dang it he will do it.
Melanie has her own issues and while she usually includes Colton (and Hawk) in any problems this is something she thinks she needs to handle on her own. I love the way that Melanie is snide and quick witted. She doesn’t take any crap.
This is another great book by Rebecca Zanetti. And I can’t wait to read Hawk’s story. He might just turn into the cowboy I fall in love with the most. Oh, and I gave this book an extra .25 stars because any book that mentions Grease (my favorite movie) deserves a little extra.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
TITLE: The Pleasures of Spring
SERIES #: Pleasures #4
CHARACTERS: Roz & Andy
AUTHOR: Evie Hunter
PUBLICATION DATE: 04/24/14
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Roz Spring is an actress and a chameleon, the kind of woman who always lands on her feet. But even Roz can’t talk her way out of witnessing a murder, and she must go into hiding before the murderer comes for her. Andy McTavish has turned his back on a life of privilege to prove himself in the world of international security. Tall, dark and dangerous, Andy is the ultimate seducer who has never met a woman who can tame him. Roz needs his protection and, to get his family off his back, Andy needs a fake fiancée. The solution is obvious: pretend to be a couple. Getting up close and personal won’t be hard, as the chemistry between them is electrifying. As two practiced charmers drive each other beyond the limits of sensual endurance, they find their usual defences are no good. When the barriers come crashing down, a raw passion emerges that neither wants to admit.They know that when the murderer shows his hand, they will face a fight for life and freedom. And if they survive, what will happen when the need to pretend is over? The Pleasures of Spring is the latest sizzling standalone novel from Evie Hunter whose trademark combination is an addictive erotic story and a page-turning plot. If you’re an Evie fan, you won’t be disappointed. And if you’re new to Evie, well, you’re in for quite the delicious treat…
REVIEW:
3.75 Hearts I was on the fence for more than half of the story not because it wasn’t good but because it was just too drawn out. I was tired of the same lines over and over. It seemed like the author(s) kept forgetting they had already told us about Roz’s poor upbringing and how she had to save her father. But the last part was fast paced and entertaining. I enjoyed the story for the most part.
A few things. Besides the constant reminder of Roz’s past the book was just a bit too long. I mean really 480 pages? It should have been cut by about 100. Andy is a interesting character but not the Dom that he claims to be. Yeah he likes control but he is more playboy/flirt than a Dom.
But this is Roz’s story and it is a good one. It closes off the series, which I guess they are doing with this book, nicely.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
TITLE: Once Upon A Billionaire
SERIES #: Billionaire Boys Club #4
CHARACTERS: Maylee & Griffin
AUTHOR: Jessica Clare
PUBLICATION DATE: 04/15/14
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
The Billionaire Boys Club is a secret society of six men who have vowed success—at any cost. Not all of them are old money, but all of them are incredibly wealthy. They’re just not always as successful when it comes to love…
As a member of the royal family in a small European country, Griffin Verdi’s presence is requested at the wedding of the century. The scholarly billionaire feels out of his depth in social situations, so a good assistant is required—especially when dealing with royal etiquette.
Unfortunately for Griffin, he’s stuck with Maylee Meriweather, a pretty, charming, and thoroughly unsuitable woman who doesn’t know a thing about high society—but she sure can kiss. Her lack of polish may sink Griffin, because after all, even his money can’t buy class. But through Maylee’s eyes, he’s starting to appreciate the simple things in life—if simple means the most complicated woman he’s ever met.
Maylee is everything Griffin isn’t—and everything he wants—if he can let down his guard and step outside his sheltered world…
REVIEW:
2.75 Hearts I had a hard time with this story. Maybe it was because it is the 4th in the series which I didn’t realize but I really think it was the writing. It had a youthful feel the writing and the way Maylee speaks seems “dumbed down” and stereotypical of what a southern is supposed to sound like.
I didn’t feel any kind of real connection between any of the characters even the men in the club. Just not my cup of tea I guess.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
TITLE: Navy SEAL Surrender
SERIES #: Texas Family Reckoning #1
CHARACTERS: Alicia & John
AUTHOR: Angi Morgan
PUBLICATION DATE: 04/15/14
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
A NAVY SEAL RETURNS TO TEXAS TO FIND HIS FAMILY IN TROUBLE AND HIS HIGH SCHOOL SWEETHEART IMPOSSIBLE TO RESIST
Navy SEAL John Sloane thought he’d come home to Texas to save the family ranch and reconnect with his estranged twin brother. He never expected to reunite with the girl whose heart he broke. But when Alicia Adams’s daughter is kidnapped, the fearless SEAL jumps into action.
However, the off-book op poses unfamiliar dangers to John, none more risky than his feelings for Alicia. To regain her trust and protect her from the kidnappers, he’ll risk his career and even his life. It all hinges on one daring scheme that could prove he’s the hero she needs or break her heart all over again.
REVIEW:
I don’t know… Something about this book is just off. Not sure what it is. The characters didn’t have a lot of connection and the writing wasn’t all that great but it was ok. The story is interesting and keeps your attention but something is just off.
John really didn’t have the SEAL feel to him. He messed up more often than not. He seemed over his head a lot of times in the story and then all of a sudden he would have this amazing thought that everyone ohhh’ed over. Alicia seems worthless if you ask me. She lets everyone just take advantage of her. I actually liked the twin brother Brian better than anyone so I will probably read the next in the series to see what happens with him.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
TITLE: Mine To Claim
SERIES #: Damaged Hearts #1
CHARACTERS: Grace & Aidan
AUTHOR: A.C. Arthur
PUBLICATION DATE: 04/08/14
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Shadow Shifters: Damaged Hearts—a deeply emotional, unforgettable New Adult paranormal romance series by A.C. Arthur about the men who are sworn to protect the females—human or otherwise—from the savage fury of his own nature…In Mine to Claim by A.C. Arthur, Grace Kincaid has been trapped her whole life. Controlled in every way by her domineering parents, she has never had any moment of excitement or passion in all her eighteen years. When a rare night out with a friend ends in violence, Grace believes that perhaps her parents are right to keep her under lock and key. There’s just one problem—she can’t get the irresistibly sexy, mysterious man who saved her from danger out of her head. She knows she should go back to her safe world, but her newfound passion for life—and for her enigmatic protector—are making that impossible…Despite his strength and power, Aidan Sanchez cannot escape. Bound by his Shifter bloodline, he is repulsed by the very attributes his family wishes him to embrace. His main goal is to keep his more dangerous…hungers… under wraps. But when a fight at a club forces Aidan to protect the most alluring woman he’s ever seen, there’s no turning back. He knows he shouldn’t drag her into his world, but she’s awakened a fire within him, and for once, he’s willing to lose control if it means having Grace…
REVIEW:
3.5 Hearts While I didn’t see it anywhere I feel like this book is more YA then anything. While a sweet short paranormal it is written with a youthful feel. I liked Aidan, he seemed strong and alpha. Grace was wishy-washy if you ask me but I did like her. While obvious Aidan is a shifter there is no shifting until the last chapter which seemed odd to me. Good just young.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
TITLE: Mai Tai For Two
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