Carrie Ann Ryan is interviewing Leslie from her new novella His Choice

Hi! Thank you all for coming to hear a little bit about my novella HIS CHOICE. I’m sitting down with Leslie, my heroine who not only is in this novella, but is also in AN UNLUCKY MOON.

Carrie Ann: Hi Leslie! Thank you for sitting with me.

Leslie: Thank you for having me.

Carrie Ann: So tell me about Fawkes. He’s a cutie, isn’t he?

Leslie: *blushes* Oh totally. He might be younger than me, but since we live for hundreds of years, it really doesn’t matter. We’ve been through so much on our own that it only makes sense that when we came together we found our way.

Carrie Ann: What was your first impression of him?

Leslie: That he looked lost.

Carrie Ann: Knowing what we know now, that totally makes sense. I’m glad you found him.

Leslie: I’m glad he found me.

Carrie Ann: What’s your favorite part about him?

Leslie: His laugh. He’s sense of humor rocks.

Carrie Ann: What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream?

Leslie: Rocky Road. It fits. You know? Plus I dig the marshmallows.

From five bestselling authors comes five brand new novellas sure to heat up the night.

From Carrie Ann Ryan‘s Dante’s Circle series, a demon from the fiery depths of hell must make his choice to follow in the footsteps of his father or love the submissive wolf who lays claim to his heart in His Choice.

From Marie Harte‘s Beasts of Burden, Eira, a fierce valkyrie, has spent fifty years trying to get a rise out of her goddess’s guardians. But when the battle-cat shifters give her what she wants, can she handle the heat—and the danger—that comes from loving them?

From Rebecca Royce‘s brand new series, the Alphas of each werewolf Pack are on the brink of war. Travis Michaels will use all in his power to keep innocent Lilliana out of danger and into his arms…away from rival Alpha Cyrus Fennell.

From Lia Davis’s Ashwood Falls series, buried pain, old lies, and dangerous secrets aren’t enough to keep the sparks from flying as Sarah Mathews and rebel leader, Damian Palmer, try to survive a new threat against their race.

From Leia Shaw’s Shadows of Destiny series, a war is brewing in the supernatural world. Rebel shifter Dalton’s only passion is protecting the colony, and flirtatious misfit, Eden, is a distraction he can’t afford. But as danger approaches, he learns that underestimating the sexy little wolf is a big mistake.

A little about Carrie Ann Ryan:

USA Today Bestselling Author Carrie Ann Ryan never thought she’d be a writer. Not really. No, she loved math and science and even went on to graduate school in chemistry. Yes, she read as a kid and devoured teen fiction and Harry Potter, but it wasn’t until someone handed her a romance book in her late teens that she realized that there was something out there just for her. When another author suggested she use the voices in her head for good and not evil, The Redwood Pack and all her other stories were born.

Carrie Ann is a bestselling author of over twenty novels and novellas and has so much more on her mind (and on her spreadsheets *grins*) that she isn’t planning on giving up her dream anytime soon.

Carrie Ann loves hearing from readers. You can find her at: Website | Facebook | Goodreads | Twitter: @CarrieAnnRyan

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November 22, 2013November 3, 2013

Kimberly reviews Until Fountain Bridge by Samantha Young

TITLE: Until Fountain Bridge
SERIES #: On Dublin Street #1.6
CHARACTERS: Ellie & Adam
AUTHOR: Samantha Young
PUBLICATION DATE: 06/18/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Ellie Carmichael had a crush on Adam Sutherland, her brother, Braden’s, best friend, for years, and although Adam treated her with proprietary concern he made it clear he thought of her only as a little sister.

Over the years, as Ellie’s crush develops into love, her romantic idealism makes it difficult for her to move on. To make matters worse, as she’s gotten older, Adam’s attitude has changed toward her. His affection for her is now joined by attraction, but his loyalty to Braden, and his fear of losing the only family he has, stops him from claiming Ellie the way she wishes he would.

But one night his attraction is put to the test, and as much as Adam would like things to remain the same everything changes between them in a simple brush of the lips.

Soon lust, love, jealousy and heartbreak combine to force change upon their relationship… and Adam discovers the hard way that life is too damn short to spend it on regret.

REVIEW:
This is a novella of what happened behind the scenes in On Dublin Street between Ellie and Adam and having read the first book I loved being able to watch these scenes unfold.

I enjoyed the way it was written as well. Not as if it was a new story but a look back at the love story through Ellie’s diaries that Adam had not read before. Very sweet and moving. And I love this couple.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

November 22, 2013November 3, 2013

Kimberly reviews Wild Child by Molly O’Keefe

TITLE: Wild Child
CHARACTERS: Monica & Jackson
AUTHOR: Molly O’Keefe
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/29/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Monica Appleby is a woman with a reputation. Once she was America’s teenage “Wild Child,” with her own reality TV show. Now she’s a successful author coming home to Bishop, Arkansas, to pen the juicy follow-up to her tell-all autobiography. Problem is, the hottest man in town wants her gone. Mayor Jackson Davies is trying to convince a cookie giant to move its headquarters to his crumbling community, and Monica’s presence is just too . . . unwholesome for business. But the desire in his eyes sends a very different message: Stay, at least for a while.

Jackson needs this cookie deal to go through. His town is dying and this may be its last shot. Monica is a distraction proving too sweet, too inviting—and completely beyond his control. With every kiss he can taste her loneliness, her regrets, and her longing. Soon their uncontrollable attraction is causing all kinds of drama. But when two lost hearts take a surprise detour onto the bumpy road of unexpected love, it can only lead someplace wonderful.

REVIEW:
I enjoyed this story. This story has a bit of a different storyline to it which was enjoyable to read. I thought the characters have an instant connection and it is well written. It is a bit repetitive at times but it does not take away from the story.

I enjoyed the characters and the growth that they both go through and even the growth of the town. I enjoyed the background characters as well. It would be interesting to read Shelby’s story next (hint, hint Molly O’Keefe).

Enjoyable read that any fan of small town romance would enjoy.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

November 21, 2013November 3, 2013

Jennifer reviews Barefoot by the Sea by Roxanne St. Claire

TITLE: Barefoot by the Sea
SERIES #: Barefoot Bay #4
CHARACTERS: Tessa Galloway and John Brown
AUTHOR: Roxanne St. Claire
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/29/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS: Tessa Galloway is a gifted nurturer–her verdant garden at Barefoot Bay’s new resort is living proof. If only the woman who can grow anything could grow what she wants most: a baby. Her friends think the right guy will come along, but Tessa doesn’t want to wait. All she needs is the perfect donor to make her dream come true. Then John Brown is hired at the resort. If anyone could make beautiful babies, it’s this gorgeous, mysterious man. So why does Tessa suddenly find herself wanting so much more?

It’s been three long years since John Brown had to leave his old life. Forced into the witness protection program, he’s desperate to be reunited with his toddler twins. When he gets the chance, there’s a catch–he must prove he’s got a steady job and a new wife. Landing a gig as a chef in Barefoot Bay is easy enough. And falling for lovely Tessa is even easier. The hard part? Can he win the heart of a woman who prizes honesty–when the truth may shatter it?

REVIEW: I fell in love with the characters in this book especially the four women who run the Casa Blanca resort in Barefoot Bay. Each of these lovely women have found their happy ending except for Tessa, who is the gardener for the beautiful resort. She has decided after heartbreak and betrayal, all she wants is to have a baby and is desperately looking for a donor to help those dreams come true. In walks John Brown, a sexy man that immediately attracts Tessa’s attention but has secrets of his own. He is on the run from his past and looking for a place to call home until he can retrieve his children from protective custody. When the two meet, sparks fly but they soon find very quickly that they both want two very different things in life. But John has to build a life in Barefoot Bay if he wants any chance of being reunited with his children and being around Tessa makes him want more out of life than just barely surviving.

Tessa was such a great character in this book. She wanted to have a child after suffering from heartbreak and was already in the process of making that happen. She was looking for a donor and to her surprise, the perfect man walked into her life and wanted to work as the new chef at Casa Blanca. She hated secrets because they only led to pain and John was holding quite a few secrets from Tessa because he didn’t want to fall in love with her and then end up leaving her.

John had been through so much after losing his wife and having his children go into protective custody. He wanted to start a new life but meeting Tessa wasn’t something that he planned on. She was everything that he wanted but he was afraid to love again especially if he had to leave to get his children and never return. I was irritated with him toward the middle of this book because he should have told Tessa about his previous life instead of creating more lies that were bound to be discovered. Especially when it came to telling her his real name was Ian. He redeemed himself by the end of the book but there was a point there that I wanted to smack him for Tessa’s sake.

Barefoot by the Sea was a wonderful novel that had me wanting to visit the beautiful Barefoot Bay and spending time with Ms. St. Claire’s characters. I loved Tessa’s and Ian’s story and I can’t wait to read the rest in the series especially the new spinoff series involving the new wedding planners.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest 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 8, 2013

Tempting His Mate by Savannah Stuart Blog Tour

Tempting His Mate

by Katie Reus

Genre: Paranormal romance

Tone: sexy romance

Elements/Tags: sexy paranormal romance

Heat Level: sexy

Series: Crescent Moon series, #3

Publisher: Savannah Stuart

Pub. Date: November 18, 2013

Length: 25,000 words (novella)

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.

For the past six months—okay, way longer than that—she’d been feeling restless and ready to move away from her pride anyhow. Her sister’s mating had been the perfect excuse for her to pack up and head down to Gulf Shores, Alabama to live with her cousin, Lauren. Well, not with her, since Lauren was newly mated, but Ella was joining her cousin’s new wolf pack of all things.

Her cousin had mated a wolf and was now part of their pack. Once Lauren heard she was looking for a change she’d almost come up and packed Ella herself. And Lauren had refused to come to the wedding out of a sense of sisterhood. It didn’t matter that they weren’t actual sisters, Ella and Lauren had grown up closer than Ella had to her own younger sister.

Clearly.

She wasn’t expected for another two days so Ella had decided to take her time and tonight she’d stopped at a well known shifter bar in Montgomery. No humans were allowed in so shifters were free to be who they were. She’d never been, but had heard wild stories about it. Wild wasn’t normally her thing, but tonight it was perfect because she was ready to let her inhibitions loose. Just for one night.

As she motioned to the bartender for another shot, she glanced in the mirror above the bar and saw a sexy as sin shifter leaning against one of the six pool tables, stick in hand, as another man racked their balls. He wasn’t overtly tall, but he was broad—really broad, with muscular shoulders and biceps she could imagine running her fingers across. His dark hair reached his jaw line. Normally she didn’t care for long hair on a man, but on him it looked perfect. With about two days worth of stubble on his defined jaw, wearing faded jeans, a black leather jacket and shit kickers, he almost looked like a bad boy cliché. Tall, dark, sexy and a little brooding. Yes, please.

Her gaze traveled up from those beat up shit kickers, over the length of that powerful body to land on that insanely handsome face again and she realized he was looking right at her. With piercing green eyes, there was no mistaking it when they caught hers in the mirror.

Thanks to her shifter sight, there wasn’t even a doubt he was watching her. Her breath caught in her throat as she stared at him, completely snared. One of the men at the pool table said something and briefly diverted his attention, releasing her from that stare. It was like she’d been released from a trance. For just a moment everything around her had funneled out; sounds, sights, scents and anything not Mr. Sexy.

Meet Author Savannah Stuart:

Savannah Stuart is the pseudonym of New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Katie Reus. Under this name she writes slightly hotter romance than her mainstream books. Her stories still have a touch of intrigue, suspense, or the paranormal and the one thing she always includes is a happy ending. She lives in the South with her very own real life hero. In addition to writing (and reading of course!) she loves traveling with her husband.

If you have any questions about her upcoming releases or her current books, please email her through her contact page.

Connect with Savannah (and Katie) at:

Website (Savannah) | Facebook (Savannah)

Website (Katie) | Facebook (Katie) | Twitter (Katie)

Tour Wide Giveaway:

(5) Digital copies of TAMING THE ALPHA, (5) Digital copies of CLAIMING HIS MATE, (5) Digital copies of TEMPTING HIS MATE; (1) GRAND PIRZE: $50 eGC to Amazon.com or B&N.com. Please follow the Rafflecopter directions and Terms & Conditions.

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Tour Stops:

http://events.litconnect.com/tempting-his-mate-by-savannah-stuart/

November 18, 2013November 3, 2013

Kimberly reviews BBW Erotic Romance Boxed Set

TITLE: BBW Erotic Romance Boxed Set
SERIES #: Varies
CHARACTERS: Varies
AUTHOR: Various ~ See below for authors name
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/06/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Dangerous curves ahead! This collection of ten scorching hot romances featuring plus-size heroines and the powerful alpha males who crave their lush, curvy bodies is guaranteed to spark a fire deep inside, whether you’re looking for a rags-to-riches fairytale, a rough and wild love affair, or a sweet and sexy friends-to-lovers romance. Pamper your inner big girl with this boxed set and feel the heat!

VEGAS KNIGHTS by Marina Maddix, author of the bestselling Laid Bear: Curvy artist Kelly finds herself on the ride of her life to Las Vegas with a real-life ‘Knight on shining armor’, but is their love strong enough to survive beyond the dazzling lights of Sin City?

HUNTING FOR CURVES by Julianne Reyer, an All Romance best selling author: Shy and curvy Jasmine Taylor is down on her luck when she meets two gorgeous men–billionaire CEO Evan Westmore and his longtime lover, Luke Rosso. She can’t resist the invitation to join them for one night of passion, but then both men start falling for her. Will the steamy threesome lead to disaster or is it the start of a new relationship for all three?

BLIND WOLF by Aubrey Rose: A blind werewolf leading a pack of stragglers finally finds his one true mate — then realizes she’s human…

FOR KEEPS by Adriana Hunter, Amazon and B&N Top 100 Bestselling author: Curvy single Valerie Gordon finds herself reluctantly accepting a job transfer where she comes face-to-face with billionaire bad boy Tyler Princeton, son of the senior partner. Tyler isn’t used to being turned down and when he sets his sights on Valerie there is little that he won’t do to get her into his arms, and into his bed…

MAKE YOU MINE by Tawny Taylor, USA Today Bestselling Author in addition to B&N and Amazon Top 100 Bestselling author: To keep her job, Daryl Laroche must find the perfect new client for her employer–a prestigious matchmaking company–and the sexy, rich and enigmatic Tevin Page fits the bill. But before he signs the contract, he issues one deliciously tempting demand…

CURVES OF THE FRENCH RIVIERA by Krista Lakes, author of the bestselling romance “Saltwater Kisses”: Megan can’t believe her luck when a billionaire playboy courts her and makes her a part of his life on the south coast of France, despite her flaws.

OPEN YOUR CURVY LEGS FOR ME, a BDSM New Adult erotic romance by Aphrodite Hunt, author of 25 Amazon Top 100 Erotica/New Adult and 12 B&N Top 100 bestselling books. Plus-sized Mariel meets gorgeous, seemingly unattainable Michael in college, and is amazed she can turn his head. Golden boy Michael is ashamed to admit he likes bigger women, especially to his laughing friends. Can the two of them have a relationship?

THE BIG, NOT-SO-SMALL, CURVY GIRLS, BBW ROMANCE, DATING AGENCY by Ava Catori: Becky’s life just got complicated. With a laugh-out-loud best friend, an insane cat, and a business to run, Becky Holgate didn’t have time for guys like Reed Amwell…until time was running out.

THE POWER BILLIONAIRE by Angelina Spears: Plus-size secretary Merrin Rexford is seduced by a powerful billionaire who harbors dark secrets, but dangerous Special Agent Evartt makes her world – and desires – spin out of control! Who will she choose?

RIDING CURVES by Christa Wick, bestselling author of PET. Stuck on the back of Aiden Perry’s motorcycle, engine thrumming between her legs while she is pressed against his big, hard body, Cecelia Harper is about to have her secret crush exposed.

REVIEW: Over All 3 Hearts
VEGAS KNIGHTS by Marina Maddix (Page 9)
2 Hearts This story just didn’t do anything for me. It was very cliche’ and there was no chemistry between the characters. Anyone could see what was going on but Kelly seemed naive about it. The sex scenes were tame really and with no imagination for a story that is in an erotic romance set. This should not have been the first book in the boxed set. I hope they get better from here.

HUNTING FOR CURVES by Julianne Reyer (Page 191)
3 Hearts The name does not fit the story if you ask me. This is m/m/f and there is an erotic feel about it. The problem is that the story is just sad. Not bad, just sad. There is a lot of feelings of loss in the story. The two males are trying to reconnect. The female is going through bad times and even the connection between the three of them has a sadness to it. Don’t get me wrong the story is good and it is a quick read but it really doesn’t have that HAPPILY ever after feel.

BLIND WOLF by Aubrey Rose (Page 287)
3 Hearts Well this one is certainly the best written of the books so far in this boxed set. And I enjoyed the storyline. What I didn’t like was Damien is a liar and a cheat. I get the whole he was going to take another wolf because he hadn’t found his mate thing but he kept lying to Julia at every turn. And I have never been one who enjoys when one of the characters is involved with someone else first. And this should not be describe as erotica. There was barely any sex at all.

FOR KEEPS by Adriana Hunter (Page 387)
3.75 Hearts Ok I know I said this on the last one but this was most certainly the best story so far. This has a complete feel to it even though it is only 75 or so pages. The story is sweet in it’s simplicity. I enjoyed that the expected is not necessarily what happens. Very sweet story.

MAKE YOU MINE by Tawny Taylor (Page 450)
3 Hearts This was sweet in a cute kind of way. Mostly obvious except a part or two and yet still sweet. Not my favorite of the 10 book set but certainly not one that I didn’t like. The characters have a good connection.

CURVES OF THE FRENCH RIVIERA by Krista Lakes (Page 558)
2.5 Hearts This was just ok for me. It was pretty much sex with a bit of a story. The problem was it was repetitive sex. It was not very interesting really. There was some parts that were entertaining but unfortunately not enough to make this story good.

OPEN YOUR CURVY LEGS FOR ME by Aphrodite Hunt (Page 660)
3 Hearts Ok so here is the thing with this one. I liked it… Mostly… The storyline was ok and the sex scenes were interesting… the problem? It leans to the stereotype of the big girl being used for sex because the guy is too embarrassed to date her. Ok maybe it works out in the end but why this woman is so willing to be used by this guy over and over is beyond me. Maybe if it showed more of a secret romance than just secret sex it would have played different but it didn’t. I read it feeling like it gives credence to the way big girls feel and they should just accept what a handsome man is willing to give no matter what.

THE BIG, NOT-SO-SMALL, CURVY GIRLS, BBW ROMANCE, DATING AGENCY by Ava Catori (Page 727) ** I received this book as a stand alone prior to receiving this boxed set. **
3.5 Hearts Big title, short story, big wallop of feelings. I have to say the first thing I did was go to the authors information to see if she was a bigger girl and the reason I did is because the author really has the feelings of a bigger girl in her story. Every big girl (and I am one) has that feeling that they are not good enough, that someone else is better because she is skinnier, and that a gorgeous guy will never be attracted to them and Catori expresses those feelings perfectly. This is a story with a happy ending (aren’t most romances?) but I am not sure it is a realistic ending in most cases. However the story really hits on the feelings perfectly. And I have to say the writing is done very well. The conversations between characters is realistic, funny and moving. The story is short but it is complete and enjoyable. Every big girl should pick this story up to remember that IT can happen. And every skinny girl should read it to get an idea of what us big girls feel on a daily basis.

THE POWER BILLIONAIRE by Angelina Spears (Page 866)
3 Hearts Another one that was just ok for me. In the beginning I was thinking it was going to be my favorite of the set but I have to say the mood of the story changed. It was light and humorous and just sweet but then it turned. It lost its lightness. I don’t want to say too much because it would give parts away but I really didn’t like who the characters became.

RIDING CURVES by Christa Wick (Page 976)
4 Hearts This was definitely the best of the set. It was a complete story with all the romance and sex. There were a few parts that I am not thrilled with but it was still a very good and interesting story. I enjoyed the connection of the characters which was immediate and not forced.

*Page #’s are based on the version I received from NetGalley
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

November 15, 2013November 3, 2013

Kelly reviews Unbreakable by Stephanie Tyler

TITLE: Unbreakable
SERIES #: Section 8 #2
CHARACTERS: Gunner & Avery
AUTHOR: Stephanie Tyler
PUBLICATION DATE: Nov. 5, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
A cabal of operatives with dangerous pasts team up to work black ops missions. Their weapon: deception. Can they help one of their own before he goes too far?

When Gunner agreed to help out Section 8, he didn’t realize he’d be pulled back in to the shadowy world he’d thought he’d escaped forever. The son of double agents, Gunner was initiated at a young age into the cold world of espionage when his father forced him to work for international smuggler Drew Landon. And when Gunner’s past with Landon threatens the other mercenaries, and most importantly, Avery, he makes an impossible choice…and disappears.

Avery’s not willing to give up on Gunner. The attraction between them has been there from the start and she rallies Section 8 to help him. She knows there’s only one way to keep Gunner safe: fake his death and take him off the grid. But when she finally locates him, Gunner is a changed man, harder, more desperate, and on the edge of self-destruction. And only Avery can find a way to free him from Landon—and from the demons of his past—before it’s too late.

REVIEW:
This was a great follow up to Stephanie’s first book Surrender (book one in the Section 8 series). While you don’t have to read book one I really think you should. It will give you much better understanding of the characters in the whole series. But a huge insight into Gunner’s mind set. That being said I am really mad at how Gunner handled things in the beginning of this book. It is like he took the easy way out. I understand why he did what he did but I still didn’t really see his character being like that. I really love Avery. This chick is wicked strong. Avery is put through the ringer and comes out of it a stronger person for it.

The storyline of the Section 8 series gets more complicated with each book, but Stephanie does a great job of string them all together. I am very much looking forward to Jem’s story. I can’t wait to see the crazy twists and turns that will come next. If you have not started the Section 8 series now is a great time to start. We are only sitting at book 2 right now!! Go out and get a copy of Surrender today!

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 13, 2013November 6, 2013

Interview & Giveaway with Anne Cleeland

Can you please share with us a little about yourself?

I’m a lawyer by trade, and for years I earned my living writing dry legal briefs and thinking that I really should try to write fiction. I’ve always been a reader, and I think most readers (after you’ve read your ten-thousandth romance) think they could probably write a decent story. One day I went to my local RWA chapter meeting and I’ve loved every minute since—I strongly urge those of you who are in the same boat to find a group and just get started; it’s so much fun!

Have you always wanted to be an author?

Not really—although I’ve always invented stories to amuse myself. I think it’s probably easier if you consider writing as a hobby, and so if you happen to sell your story, that’s great. But if I never sold, I’d still be writing these stories because I enjoy them so much.

Who are some of your favorite writers? Who do you feel has influenced your writing?

I love romance, I love mystery and I love adventure stories, and I try to combine all three in each story. For romance, my favorite is Georgette Heyer; for mystery, Agatha Christie; and for adventure, Edgar Rice Burroughs. Their stories always have great characters and interesting, fast-moving plots, and that’s what I try to imitate.

How did you get into writing in this specific genre? Have you ever thought about writing in a different genre?

I’ve read a million Regencies, and so that’s an era that I enjoy. I also write a contemporary mystery series that has a strong romance plotline. I would love to write fantasy and science fiction, too.

What are some of your writing rituals?

Mainly I write whenever and wherever I get a chance—even in the middle seat of an airplane. I do like to have some diet Dr. Pepper handy, though.

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?

Daughter of the God-King is mostly set in Egypt. The daughter of famous Egyptologists must travel to the Valley of the Kings to find out what happened to her parents, who are missing. They were last seen working at their latest dig—the tomb of an unknown pharaoh’s daughter. Suddenly, various factions from Napoleon’s last war are pursuing the heroine, thinking she knows where her parents hid an unknown treasure. The hero is her parents’ mysterious agent, who is definitely not what he seems—but is he friend or foe? In the end, the secrets contained in the tomb of the god-king’s daughter will change her life forever, and threaten to set the world ablaze in another war.

How did you come up with the idea for this story?

I’m a seat-of-the-pants writer, which means I have no idea. I start writing and the story just seems to develop as I go along. I always like to have big twists in my story, and this one has a doozy.

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?

I’ve already written several more Regency adventure stories similar to this one—the stories are independent, but have cross-over references. I also am writing a contemporary mystery series; Murder in Thrall came out in July and Murder in Retribution will come out next July.

Open your book to a random page and tell us what’s happening.

On the streets of Paris, the heroine is approached by a strange gentleman who will not identify himself but who nervously urges her to return to England, and to avoid Egypt at all costs.

What would you be if you were not an author?

A detective. As long as nothing too scary happens.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

I’ll be with everyone else, lining up to see the next installment of The Hunger Games.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

It’s a great time to be a reader, so I’d urge everyone to take advantage of all the wonderful opportunities on-line, such as Goodreads or great blogs such as this one. And don’t forget your local bookstore—they need your support, too. And if you have the itch to write a book, just start typing; every journey starts with a single step.

Learn more about Anne here: GoodReads

*****

Amazon| B&N

Hattie Blackhouse is the only child of famous Egyptologists, and when they go missing, she travels to their latest excavation in ancient Thebes only to discover that she is attracting interest from the French, the British, and the Egyptians, who believe her the reincarnation of a long-dead princess.

In the second book in the Regency series, the heroine finds herself in the crosshairs of factions who are vying to support or thwart Napoleon’s latest attempt at world domination—and she unknowingly holds the key.

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November 13, 2013November 3, 2013

Winter Romance Wednesday! Kelly reviews Holiday Games by Jaci Burton

TITLE: Holiday Games
SERIES #: Play-by-Play Novella #6.5
CHARACTERS: Gavin & Liz Riley
AUTHOR: Jaci Burton
PUBLICATION DATE: November 19, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
A Holiday Novella

A Riley wedding is in the works, a Riley Christmas means a house full of family, and baby making is on Liz Riley’s mind. Chasing Gavin around and meeting in dark closets can be fun, but Liz is more than a little determined. Even with family in every corner of the house, Gavin is more than ready to do whatever Liz wants—especially when sex is involved. It’s a Riley family Christmas.

REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts Liz has baby on the brain. Which means she needs to convince her husband that they need to have more sex. But with the holiday’s and a wedding there is not much time. But that is not going stop Liz.

Oh, how I love Jaci Burton’s Play-by-Play series!!!! Since Holiday Games is a novella and don’t want to give too much away just know that it will not disappoint. It was so much fun to read about Gavin & Liz again. I so can’t wait for the next installment in this 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.

November 12, 2013November 12, 2013

Book Spotlight: Shadow of Time by Jen Minkman

All Hannah needs is a nice and quiet vacation after her first year of teaching French at a high school. She joins her brother Ben for the summer in their mom’s log cabin in Arizona. There, she meets Josh again, Ben’s childhood friend from the Navajo reservation. The little boy from the rez has grown up fast, and Hannah can’t help but feeling more for him than just friendship.

But fate apparently has something else in store for her. And it’s not peace and quiet. Night after night, Hannah is plagued by strange nightmares about the past of Navajo Nation and terrifying shadows chasing her. They seem to come closer – and why is Josh always present in her dreams?

Sometimes, the past has a way of catching up with you.

Amazon/B&N/Goodreads

About the Author:

Jen Minkman (1978) was born in Holland, in the town of Alphen aan den Rijn. When she was 19, she moved between The Hague, Salzburg (Austria), Brussels (Belgium) and Cambridge (UK) to complete her studies in intercultural communication. She is currently a teacher of English and Dutch at a secondary school in The Hague, Holland. She tries to read at least 100 books a year (and write a few, too!)

Website/Facebook/Blog

Jennifer’s Review of Shadow of Time

(3.5 Stars): I was very excited to read Shadow of Time because I loved the Native American aspect to the story and the historical theme that seemed to be driving this book. I have always been fascinated with the Native American culture and Ms. Minkman does a great job of presenting a realistic look at life on the reservation.

I liked Hannah and Josh together as a couple because they seemed to be so connected with one another especially with Hannah having several dreams of her and Josh being together in the past. It was interesting reading about them and trying to determine what the dreams meant and how they came into play for their story.

My only issue with Shadow of Time was the pacing. I liked the story but at times I felt that the story wasn’t moving along fast enough but I’m glad that I stuck through it until the end. Very interesting read and I look forward to reading more from Ms. Minkman in the future.

November 12, 2013November 12, 2013

Kelly’s review of The Elf and The Ice Princess by Jax Garren

TITLE: The Elf and The Ice Princess
CHARACTERS: Brett Virtanen & Carrie Martin
AUTHOR: Jax Garren
PUBLICATION DATE: November 12, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N | Kobo | ARe

BOOK SYNOPSIS:

A frozen heart…

Three years ago, amid grief and defeat, the man who once made Carrie Martin believe in happily-ever-afters deserted her on New Year’s Day. Ever since, she’s seen no reason for holiday joy amid the materialism and chaos of the most stressful time of year. So when a tipsy guy in a mall elf costume falls into her lap at happy hour and starts spouting poetry, it’s just one more reason to be disgusted at the season’s excess.

A man who’s more than he appears…

Brett Virtanen, part-time elf and a caterer in training, is smitten with Carrie’s strength and sass. Having faced down a painful past of his own, he’s determined to be the one to warm her frozen heart. But when Carrie’s job forces her to attend a gala hosted by her ex–and his new wife–it could take more magic than a costumed elf can conjure to make this ice princess once again believe in love

REVIEW PROVIDED BY: Kelly
NUMBER OF HEARTS: 4
REVIEW:

I love the worlds that Jax creates. I feel in love with Brett the moment he spilled Carrie’s drink down the front of her sweater. And just continued to love him until the end of the book. Although I will say I really want to learn more about this man or is he an elf?

I really liked Carrie, but 2 years is a long time to mourn for a man who left you high and dry. But I did love these two together and hope that this is not the end of their story!

Disclaimer:

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