Kelly reviews Hard As It Gets by Laura Kaye

TITLE: Hard As It Gets
SERIES #: Hard Ink #1
CHARACTERS: Nicholas Rixey & Becca Merritt
AUTHOR: Laura Kaye
PUBLICATION DATE: Nov. 26, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
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.

REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts Hard As It Gets introduces us to Becca Merritt. A very desperate Becca who is looking for help from a Mr. Rixey. With only a cryptic message from her missing brother, Becca is willing to do just about anything to find her brother, including asking for help from a complete stranger.. But coming face to face with a very stubborn Nick Rixey might be the only thing that stops her from finding her brother.

Nick Rixey is a jaded man. He has been burned and almost killed in the past because he trusted the wrong person at the wrong time. So when Becca Merritt walks in asking for help all Nick can think of is her last name and the damage that name has caused him. Even after he tells her no, Nick can’t help but follow her just to make sure she is safe. But when he sees someone in her house all the rules change.

This was a great start to a new series for Laura Kaye. There is an awesome cast of characters in this book and I am already looking forward to the future books. Nick & Becca are a fun couple. They circle and circle around each other. It was almost like a game of who can will blink first. I really enjoyed the book and very much looking forward to the next 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 8, 2013November 6, 2013

Spotlight Feature, Excerpt and giveaway with Laura Wright

ETERNAL SIN

Mark of the Vampire, Book 6

Available November 5, 2013

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon | B&N | Kobo

Love and Vengeance…

The violent attack left Synjon destroyed and his lover dead—at the will of the evil vampire Cruen. Syn’s passionate savior was Petra. When she became pregnant with his child, it should have been a blessing—until Syn vanished after discovering the truth: Petra was the daughter of the man he despised above all others. The daughter of Cruen.

When Petra’s health begins to decline, she contacts Syn to help save their baby. Though reluctant to see Petra, he cannot turn his back on his own innocent child. But night after night, as his feelings for Petra are rekindled, Syn becomes increasingly torn.

Although everyone assumes that Cruen is dead, Syn is not convinced—and is still hell-bent on finding and destroying him once and for all. But will his thirst for vengeance keep him from seeing what is really worth living for before it is too late?

ETERNAL SIN Snippet #6

“You drank from him, didn’t you?” Dani called over her thickly feathered shoulder to Petra as they flew past a stand of teak that housed three of the Avian’s twenty-two nesting grounds.

Avoiding her best friend’s massive wings, Petra leaned forward and wrapped her arms around the hawk’s neck. “Of course I did.”

“Well, I hope you drained him dry. I hope he could barely breathe. I hope he was coughing and sputtering and losing consciousness—”

“I get it, Dani,” she shouted over the wind. “You want him to suffer.”

Dani glanced back, her hawk eyes flashing with ire. “Did he tell you how close he came to having sex with me?”

“No, you told me, remember?” Petra returned.

“Of course, for me,” Dani went on, “it was all part of the act. We needed to get him alone, get him as vulnerable as possible. He’s a total manwhore, and last night I made sure he chose me.”

This wasn’t a subject Petra felt all that comfortable with. Especially a second time. And yet she couldn’t seem to stop herself from asking, “So, if Sasha and Val were late or hadn’t shown up, were you actually going to—”

“Fuck him?” Dani called back, sounding appalled before she actually snorted. “Hell to the no.”

“You make it sound like a fate worse than death, Dani. The guy’s incredibly hot. And the things he can do . . .” What the hell am I doing? She shook her head. It felt like someone else was running her mouth.

“I don’t want to hear about his magic tongue,” Dani shouted.

Heat flared in Petra’s cheeks. “You can stop now.”

Dani laughed. “Fine, then. His magic penis.”

“Okay,” Petra said, completely mortified now. “I think we should play the quiet game, don’t you?”

“No. I don’t.” And just to send that message home, Dani dive-bombed into the forest, pulled up right before they would have hit the ground, and then started serpentining through the trees.

Petra gripped the hawk’s feathers, her mouth dry as she panted with fear. “That was unnecessary,” she called through gritted teeth.

“I don’t think so,” Dani called back. “You need your brain shaken up, reworked. You’re talking about this guy being all hot and everything, and all I can think is he screwed my best friend, got her preggers, and couldn’t care less.”

Petra winced. Her best friend’s words cut deep. As they were meant to. “You know my father took away his emotions. He couldn’t feel a thing now even if he wanted to.”

The hawk made an irritated sound. “Are you seriously defending him?”

“No.” And she wasn’t. That would be insane. That would make her foolish and optimistic, and worse yet, a glutton for punishment.

“You totally are,” Dani returned. “Please tell me that blood you took from him didn’t shatter the reality of the here and now, and his major dickhood.”

TOUR GIVEWAY:

Laura is giving away a $10.00 Amazon card at EVERY blog stop.

To Enter please leave your name, email address and tell me who is your favorite Vampire.

*****

Now a look at the rest of the Mark of the Vampire Series:

*****

ETERNAL HUNGER

Mark of the Vampire, Book 1

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon / B&N / Audible.com / Tantor Audio

FEAR IS IN THE BLOOD

Alexander Roman wants nothing to do with the controlling rulers of his vampire breed or the family he escaped from a hundred years ago. But as a new threat to the pureblood vampires emerges, Alexander’s ties to the past are forced upon him again, and without warning, he finds himself – disoriented, terrified, and near death – at the door of a stranger.

TRUST IS A RISK

Dr. Sarah Donohue is dedicated to removing the traumatic memories of her patients – like those of the stranger at her front door. But what he tells her of his past is too astonishing to be anything more than the delusion of a madman. Yet she has seen his flesh scarred by the sun and witnessed his inhuman strength. And never more has she felt so conneted to a man, by both fear and seductive excitement.

LOVE IS ETERNAL …

But as their worlds collide, Sarah and Alexander are bound by something even stronger, as one becomes hunter and the other prey. And Sarah’s only chance of survival is to surrender to the final – and most unimaginable – desire of her life.

*****

ETERNAL KISS

Mark of the Vampire, Book 2

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon / B&N / Audible.com / Tantor Audio

Sacrifice will be their downfall. And their resurrection.

Family is blood.

His father unknown, his mother dead, Nicholas Roman was raised by the vampire Breed with one wish: to live as a normal vampire. But once he’s transformed against his will into a gifted immortal, Nicholas now has one goal: to stop the Eternal Order of vampires from controlling his life and from transforming more males from his bloodline for their vicious reign. Then comes a beautiful stranger with a startling secret.

Vampire Kate Everborne claims she’s sheltering Nicholas’ long-lost son. If this is true, then who is the mother? And how endangered are they if, indeed, Nicholas does possess the bloodline so coveted by the Order? These are questions that with every seductive whisper, every silken touch, draw Nicholas and Kate intimately closer and nearer still to the truth. But aroused too are Nicholas’ fears that this tantalizing woman has even more secrets—both dangerous and provocative—she has yet to share.

*****

ETERNAL BLOOD

Mark of the Vampire E-special, Book 2.5

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon / B&N / Kobo

Gray Donahue is crippled by the guilt he feels for his father’s death. An Impure vampire cursed with the ability to hear the thoughts of others, he indulges in blood and sex to stave off the pain of his existence. He is then abducted by the Eternal Order of Vampires, who subject him to a nightmarish ritual. But when he is rescued by the icy pureblood vampire Dillon, he finds something that is worth living for, dying for, killing for….

*****

ETERNAL CAPTIVE

Mark of the Vampire, Book 3

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

Lucian Roman knows he must stay away from Bronwyn Kettler for sanity’s sake. Since feeding her his blood, he can think of nothing else but possessing her—fighting an uncontrollable desire to kill her, if need be, and the vampire she has sworn to wed.

Bronwyn, a brilliant vampire genealogist, can never escape her connection to Lucian. He sustained her when she was starving. He still rules her dreams. And when the nights get dark enough, she still craves him. Though his essence still courses through her body, she has found a true mate in someone else.

But when a dangerous enemy threatens Bronwyn, only Lucian—bound to her forever by blood—can save her life. Even if it means sacrificing his own…

*****

ETERNAL BEAST

Mark of the Vampire, Book 4

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

Ever since his abduction by the Eternal Order of Vampires, Gray Donohue has finally found his true calling: vengeance. He will stop at nothing to bring his fellow Impure vampires the freedom they deserve. Now if he could just release his primal need for the beautiful vampire who saved his life-and rules his thoughts and desires . . .

After nearly killing the senator she was assigned to protect, Dillon is now in mortal danger. The jaguar within her has been unleashed, and she can no longer control it. Sex is the only thing that can tame her shift. And Gray is the only man who can make her surrender to a passion strong enough to overpower her inner beast. But she doesn’t want to surrender-she wants her life back. Because she is determined never to belong to anyone, especially not Gray-the man who destiny claims is her mate.

*****

ETERNAL BEAUTY

Mark of the Vampire Series E-special, Book 4.5

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

He is captivated by the one who saved him from death—until he finds out who she is…

When his lover is murdered by evil vampire-beast, Cruen, the grief-stricken Synjon Wise believes his life over. Enraged, he flashes her away to a remote spot in South America to give his beloved’s body a proper burial. But when the sun blazes overhead and takes her body before his eyes, Synjon’s mind completely unravels. Mad with the need to join her, he walks into the sun a morphed male, prepared to die.

He awakens to find himself amongst a breed known as Shifters. As he is nursed back to health by Petra, who saved his life, Synjon feels no gratitude—only anger and guilt that he is still alive. But this female is strong and refuses to let Syn waste away. For the bond that will form between them will be enduring: as nurse and patient, male and female, savior and saved.

Betrayer and betrayed

*****

ETERNAL DEMON

Mark of the Vampire, Book 5

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

When Erion’s son is kidnapped by the evil vampire Cruen, Erion vows to stop at nothing to find his hideaway—including intercepting the traveling party of Cruen’s beautiful bride-to-be. But instead of a vulnerable caravan, Erion is met by a feral band of female demons that includes Hellen, the bride—a creature of dark magic and darker passion.

Though the safety of his son is foremost, Erion can’t deny his unexpected connection to Hellen—inflaming a manic desire as primal as it is irresistible. As their bond intensifies, they move toward an inevitable and terrifying battle. With time running out, Erion realizes he must not only find and rescue his son but protect Hellen from Cruen and the underworld forces waiting to destroy her for her betrayal.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Author of the Bestselling Mark of the Vampire series, Laura Wright spent the early years of her life immersed in the worlds of singing, acting and competitive ballroom dancing. But when she started writing, she knew she’d found her true calling. Laura lives in Los Angeles, California with her husband, two children, three dogs, two frogs and two fish. She’s been thrice nominated for a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award, and loves hearing from her readers.

Connect with Laura:

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads

November 8, 2013November 7, 2013

Book Spotlight and Interview: Say Yes to the Duke by Kieran Kramer

1. Tell me about your new release Say Yes to the Duke.

It’s a fun, romantic story about the middle sister – the one who’s not noticed as much as her “It Girl” older sister and her adorable younger sister. Her mother told her, ” If you’re going to fall in love, it might as well be with a duke.” How many of us have been told, ” If you’re going to fall in love, it might as well be with a rich man?” Anyway, poor Janice is under so much pressure! This is the story of her and her duke…but you might be surprised by what happens.

As usual, I put a lot of thought into my secondary characters, too. I like the story to be populated with memorable people, so look out for Isobel, the maid, and the dowager duchess. And then there’s Luke, the hunk in the stables!!!

2. Where did you come up with the idea for the series?

I dreamt about it one night. I woke up at 1 a.m. and ran to my computer and emailed my editor and agent.

3. The cover for Say Yes to the Duke is gorgeous. How much input do you have on your covers?

I get to help choose the cover models, which is absolutely a blast! This cover was actually chosen by readers. Heroes and Heartbreakers featured three covers created by the St. Martin’s Press art department, and this one won by a landslide! I LOVE this cover. Thank you. I’ll be sure to tell the art department you like it, too!

4. What are you working on now?

I just finished my first contemporary romance called Sweet Talk Me. It takes place in a fictitious South Carolina town and is about a starchy Southern belle and her troublemakin’ country singer ex. They fall in love while he’s helping her get ready to marry another man.

5. Which authors/books do you feel have been a big influence on you becoming a writer?

Jane Austen, Mark Twain, Harper Lee, Victoria Holt, LaVyrle Spencer, Susan Elizabeth Phillips, Sophie Kinsella, Beverly Cleary.

6. What was the first book that you ever wrote? Was it published?

The first one I wrote as an adult was called Madeira, My Dear. It was a 60,000-word Regency I wrote years ago when my children were babies. It had a talking dog and all sorts of craziness. I’d love to find it and read it again. I did write a little book called The Adventures of Tom Nooley when I was eleven years old. I was very proud of that.

Thank you so much for answering my questions. I have loved all the books in the House of Brady series and I’m excited to read Say Yes to the Duke.

Thank you very much for these wonderful questions. I wish you and all your readers a lovely autumn filled with many cozy moments reading fabulous books!

About the Author:

USA Today bestselling author Kieran Kramer currently writes fun contemporary romance for St. Martin’s Press. A former CIA employee, journalist, and English teacher, Kieran’s also a game show veteran, karaoke enthusiast, and general adventurer. She lives where she grew up–in the Lowcountry of South Carolina–with her family. Find her on Facebook, Twitter, and at www.kierankramerbooks.com.

Jennifer’s Review of Say Yes to the Duke

Title: Say Yes to the Duke

Series #: House of Brady #3

Characters: Janice Sherwood and Luke Callahan

Author: Kieran Kramer

Order Links: Amazon/ B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS: Janice Sherwood wants to marry for love, but she’s failed to make a match after two Seasons. Her parents, the Marguess and Marchioness of Brady, arrange to send her to the Duke of Halsey’s country estate as a short-term guest of his grandmother, the dowager, in hopes that she might win the duke’s affections. What they never could have imagined is that Janice would fall for the ruggedly handsome servant Luke, who lives in the stables and carries an air of mystery and temptation.

When Luke Callahan learns that he is the legitimate heir to a dukedom, he will stop at nothing to claim what is his. But first, he must begin a game of disguise to secure his rightful inheritance. Janice isn’t part of his plan. But by engaging her in this dance of deception, might he lose her forever?

Review (4.5):
I am always impressed with Kieran Kramer’s talent in writing such wonderful romances that will have you rooting for the heroine to finally get her happy ending after facing obstacles that almost prevents her from finding true love. I have loved this series from the beginning with Loving Lady Marcia and enjoyed her creative take on the classic television series, The Brady Bunch.

I’ve always liked Janice and I was happy to see her finally get her story. Just like the television show, Janice was the middle daughter and always felt that she was outshined by her sisters. Her older sister, Marcia, was the “pretty one” and Cynthia was the “cute one” while Janice was left in the shadows of their spotlight. One thing I loved was how her personality changed over the course of this book and she became a strong woman who wouldn’t back down from anyone instead of just going along with everything like other women at the time. There are a couple of scenes where Janice took advantage of her newfound situation and made the Duke’s lackeys help the community when they never had any intention of helping anyone but themselves.

The Duke of Halsey was an absolute jerk who took advantage of his social standing and used it as a platform to engage in unsavory activities. He believed that women were just there to be used for his entertainment. He never planned on getting married because that would spoil his never-ending party. He was only interested in Janice because she did the exact opposite of what everyone expected and he wanted to see if the rumor about her sexual history was true or not. I wanted Luke to hit him over the head for some of the things that Halsey had done, he was that much of a jerk.

Luke Callahan was a great guy for Janice. He was on a mission to find the truth about his heritage and didn’t plan on meeting or falling for Janice. He never planned on deceiving her about his true intentions but I’m glad that everything worked out in the end.

I loved Say Yes to the Duke and can’t say enough good things about Ms. Kramer’s charming House of Brady series. I’m looking forward to reading her next book in the series because I am sure to fall in love with her fun witty characters.

November 7, 2013November 3, 2013

Kelly reviews Entwined by Kristen Callihan

TITLE: Entwined
SERIES #: Darkest London Novella #3.5
CHARACTERS: Eamon Evernight & Lu Moran
AUTHOR: Kristen Callihan
PUBLICATION DATE: Nov 5, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Eamon Evernight has always lived in his older brother’s shadow. While his brother is fair of hair and lithe in body, Eamon sparks fear with his fiery locks and massive frame-and rumors of a mysterious power. But when his brother has the good fortune to be betrothed to a beautiful stranger, it’s Eamon’s help-and quick wit and romantic heart–that he needs. Eamon agrees to write the noble lady…a generous offer that will forever leave him a changed man.

Lady Luella Jane Moran has no interest in an arranged marriage and tries valiantly to dissuade her betrothed from afar. Though her own letters plainly state her case, the words her husband-to-be writes her leave her aching for his touch. Will Lu give in to the desire the missives have kindled within her? Or will desire turn cold when she discovers their true author?

REVIEW:
This was a quick novella about 40 pages long. But it was packed full of twists and turn with every page. I won’t give away too much as it was a novella. But let’s say that not everyone is as the seem.
I love how Kristen put this novella together. From beginning to end we cover a four year period and I loved reading the letters between Eamon & Lu. But really I am not going to say much more. But if you are a fan of Kristen’s and a fan of the Darkest London series you will enjoy this novella.

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 6, 2013November 3, 2013

Kelly reviews Bad Nights by Rebecca York

TITLE: Bad Nights
SERIES #: Rockfort Security #1
CHARACTERS: Jack Brandt & Morgan Rains
AUTHOR: Rebecca York
NARRATOR: Tara Sands
PUBLICATION DATE: Sept. 9, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Private operative and former Navy SEAL Jack Brandt barely escaped a disastrous undercover assignment, thanks to the most intriguing woman he’s ever met. When his enemies track him to her doorstep, he’ll do anything to protect Morgan from the danger closing in on them both . . . Since her husband’s death, Morgan Rains has only been going through the motions. She didn’t think anything could shock her-until she finds a gorgeous man stumbling naked and injured through the woods behind her house. He’s mysterious, intimidating-and undeniably compelling.Thrown together into a pressure cooker of danger and intrigue, Jack and Morgan are finding in each other a reason to live-if they can survive.

REVIEW:
I had the honor of listening to this book on audio. I love audiobooks. But the narrator can make or break a good book. If you don’t have a great narrator it really doesn’t matter how good the book is. I do have my favorite narrators. So let me say that I really enjoyed the story of Bad Nights Rebecca York is an amazing story teller. And this was my first Rebecca York books. But I was not in love with the narrator for this book Tara Sands does a fine job in the dialog part, although some of the guys sounds very similar. But the storytelling part felt like she was just reading the book not telling the story. I prefer to have my narrators tell me the story. But overall I really did like this story. But I think the next book in this series I will be reading. I am not sure. I might give Tara another shot.
I loved Jack & Morgan. Oh and Shane & Max!! I can’t wait for these two’s story. But back to Jack & Morgan. Jack is a man on the run and Morgan is the unfortunate person who finds him naked, hurt and out cool. This chance meeting puts them both in grave danger. The only trusting each other and a little lucky will keep them safe.
This was a really good story. It keep my attention the whole time. I wanted Jack & Morgan to get out safe. I wanted them to realize what they could have together. I wanted to slap Jack for telling Morgan he was not the man for her. But in the end…..
Well you need to read the book to find out.

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 5, 2013November 3, 2013

Kimberly reviews Rumor Has It by Jill Shalvis

TITLE: Rumor Has It
SERIES #: Animal Magnetism #4
CHARACTERS: Kate & Griffin
AUTHOR: Jill Shalvis
PUBLICATION DATE: 11/05/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
He’ll help unleash the new woman in her…

Special Ops soldier Griffin Reid doesn’t exactly have happy memories of growing up in Sunshine, Idaho. He’s only come back to recover from a war injury, and while he refuses to admit he’s in a weakened state, he finds comfort in the last person he’d expect.

Kate Evans teaches second grade in Sunshine, the place she’s always called home. Dreaming of graduate school and a happily-ever-after, she’s desperate to break out of the monotony of Sunshine. Luckily, a certain sexy man has just come back into her life.

To Griffin, Kate has always been his little sister’s friend, but now he’s finding her to be so much more. As both attempt to forge their paths, they must decide if their passionate connection can turn into something lasting…

REVIEW:
4.75 Hearts Boy did I love this book. Griffin is just adorable. I just wanted to package him up, take him home and make his boo-boo all better. Kate is something else as well. She is Superwoman. And yet everything she does is authentic and well meaning. She just is who she is and I loved that about her.

The characters connected immediately. The reader can just tell they are meant to be together. There is a calmness that they give each other. I also enjoyed revisiting Holly and Adam from Rescue My Heart.

I am not sure the next in the series for Jill Shalvis but I am throwing out my request for Ryan’s story. Now there is a man I could fall in love with.

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

November 4, 2013November 1, 2013

Cover Reveal of Christmas in July by Debbie Mason

Thanks for taking part in our cover reveal! I’m so excited to share the cover for CHRISTMAS IN JULY with you. I love Grace and Jack’s second-chance story and art director Diane Luger and her talented team have created the perfect cover. I’m not sure they even realize just how perfect it is.

Every detail, big and small, reveals something about the story. The house is similar to the old Victorian on Sugar Plum Lane that Grace has dreamed of buying since she moved to town. Although Grace’s dream home is pink, yellow was the perfect choice. The bright, cheerful color makes me think of sunshine and light; our wounded hero and heroine’s journey to joy and happiness. The old Victorian plays an integral role in Jack and Grace’s story as it’s part of their conflict and their happy ending.

A blue door symbolizes refuge, calm, and loyalty. And a white picket fence represents home sweet home. Red roses in full bloom mean “I still love you.” Something Grace struggles with. While she’s in love with her husband, she has legitimate reasons for doubting his love for her. The yellow ribbons show support for the military. Jack is a Black Hawk pilot who has been MIA for seventeen months. They’re a symbol of hope, of waiting for a loved one to come home, and forgiveness. Jack returns to a town he never thought of as home, a wife and son he doesn’t remember. By the end of the book, with the help of his family and the citizens of Christmas, Jack realizes that home is where the heart is.

I hope Jack, Grace, and little Jack will capture your heart as they have captured mine. You can meet Grace in the first book in the series, THE TROUBLE WITH CHRISTMAS, as she struggles to raise her son, keep her bakery afloat, and hold on to the hope her husband will come home. The first chapter of CHRISTMAS IN JULY is also included in the book.

CHRISTMAS IN JULY (Forever Mass Market; June 24, 2014; 9781455527694; $8.00)

Amazon |B&N

Grace Flaherty had given up hope of ever seeing her husband again. After all, it’s been over a year since he went missing in combat. So when he strides through the door of her bakery in downtown Christmas one sunny afternoon, she can hardly believe her eyes. But her happily-ever-after is going to take some effort – because Jack has no memory of his family.

All Jack Flaherty remembers about Christmas is that he couldn’t wait to leave town. Now he’s a local hero with a wife and son he doesn’t know. Even as he struggles to rekindle the romance with his wife, he knows in his heart what he wants: a second chance at love.

About Debbie Mason:

Praised as a “writer to watch” by RT Book Reviews, Debbie Mason also writes Scottish-set historical paranormals as Debbie Mazzuca. Her MacLeod series debuted in April 2010 and is said to “combine the passion of Hannah Howell’s Highand romances with the seductive fantasy of Karen Marie Moning’s bestsellers.”

Connect with Debbie here: Author’s Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

November 4, 2013November 3, 2013

Kimberly reviews Perfect Mate by Aubrey Rose

TITLE: Perfect Mate
SERIES #: A Werewolf BBW Romance #2
CHARACTERS: Julia & Damien
AUTHOR: Aubrey Rose
PUBLICATION DATE: 09/25/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
The standalone romance novella which follows the #1 Bestselling Shifter Romance Blind Wolf!

Julia always thought that she was human. When the blind leader of a pack of straggling misfits claims her as his one true mate, she accepts that she is in love with Damien despite their radical differences.

But after another shifter wolf attacks them, he points to her as he dies and utters words that will change Julia’s life forever:

“…she’s not what you think she is…”

REVIEW:
2.5 Hearts This is the second in the novella series and I have to say it was just ok for me. The writing of the character was a bit immature. The story is sort of interesting but not much different than many others except Damien in blind. It is a short story so I won’t make this long but I do think you need to read the first novella before reading this one if you do chose to read it. There is not much to the BBW part and not much to the erotica part but if you like shifters you could possibly enjoy it.

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

November 4, 2013November 3, 2013

Kelly reviews Born Wild by Julie Ann Walker

TITLE: Born Wild
SERIES #: Black Knights #5
CHARACTERS: Eve & William
AUTHOR: Julie Ann Walker
PUBLICATION DATE: 11/5/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
She’s got three rules:

1. Trust no one… Eve Edens has been abandoned, used, or manipulated by almost everyone she’s ever met. Born into ridiculous wealth, she’s dealt with the petty jealousies and sordid little resentments for nearly thirty years. But after three botched attempts on her life, she can no longer ignore the truth. Someone wants her dead.

2. Avoid the bad boys at all costs… William “Wild Bill” Reichert, the wonderfully sexy boy who abandoned her years ago, is back in town. Only he’s no boy. Now he’s a covert operative – and he’s all man. When Eve hires Bill to help her discover who is behind the attacks, Bill soon comes to suspect it’s someone much closer to Eve than she dares to believe.

3. And never fall for the same ruse twice… The search for the killer takes Bill and Eve deep into the dark secrets and strange world of the rich and famous, and into the heart of red-hot passion re-ignited by the peril that threatens to consume them both. But does Eve dare risk her heart on Bill a second time?

REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts William “Will Bill” Reichert is as hard as nails. He worked as a bomb specialist in the Navy. But there has been one thing, one person, that has always been able to bring him to his knees. Eve Edens. The one one and only woman who he has ever love and broke his heart. When Eve comes to him asking for help he is powerless to say no, but he is determined to keep his distance no matter what.

Poor Bill doesn’t know what he is in for when he agrees to help Eve. Not that he would ever turn his back on her. But if he only knew. This was another great story from Julie Ann. I just love the Black Knight Inc series. I love all the alpha males in these books and I really love that while the women might seem mousey they are tough as nails too. I mean they hang out with these bad-ass boys they kind of have to be. I really like Bill & Eve’s story. I love that both have been so tormented about the past for so long. Bill is so sweet with Eve!!! I can’t wait to see them more in future books. And speaking of future books. Bring on Mac & Delilah!! These two are going to be awesome.

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 1, 2013October 24, 2013

Interview & Giveaway with Thea Harrison

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Thea Harrison to the blog today.

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Thea Harrison is the pen name for Teddy Harrison. Thea has traveled extensively, having lived in England and explored Europe for several years. Now she resides in Colorado. She wrote her first book, a romance, when she was nineteen and had sixteen romances published under the name Amanda Carpenter.

She took a break from writing to collect a couple of graduate degrees and a grown child. She experienced waitressing as a teenager, has worked as an activist for a non-profit consumer rights organization, has been a receptionist, an office manager, a penniless graduate student, a director of development and research, and a single mom. Her graduate degrees are in Philanthropic Studies and Library Information Science, but her first love has always been writing fiction.

Her paranormal Elder Races series began May 3, 2011 with Dragon Bound, which won RT Book Review’s Book of the Year Award, and the Romance Writer’s of America RITA in the paranormal romance category.

All five of her full length novels in the Elder Races series have won Top Picks from RT Book Reviews. Book two in the series, Storm’s Heart, and book four, Oracle’s Moon, hit the USA Today bestseller’s list, while book three, Serpent’s Kiss, hit the New York Times extended bestseller list. Her fifth book, Lord’s Fall, hit both the USA Today and the New York Times extended lists.

She adores animals and currently resides with two small dogs that have very large personalities.

Q: What is one of your favorite Myths/legends to write about?

A: When I started to write my reply to this question, I realized it wasn’t going to be a simple or easy answer! I’ve had so much fun with the world building in the Elder Races series. It’s almost impossible to pick just one.

I really enjoyed taking the Oracle of Delphi and putting it into a modern context for Oracle’s Moon. When I turned my attention to the witches’ demesne in Louisville, I wanted to make sure it felt as rich and developed as the rest of the world building I’d done for the other demesnes and mythological creatures. That story was fun for a lot of reasons, because I also really enjoyed building the Djinn society based on Middle Eastern legends.

Another favorite has been developing the Elves, in Lord’s Fall and continued in Kinked. And a third was when I created my own version of Vampyres in Serpent’s Kiss. I have two more Vampyre stories that I’m dying to tell. When I get excited about a story, it’s hard to wait for the right time to tell it!

Q: You’ve been gifted (or cursed) with the ability to shift into another form by a witch. What kind of shifter are you and why? (All creatures, including mythological, apply.)

A: Awesome question! I think I have two answers for that one. If it was a gift, then I think it would have to be something winged and strong. I think there’s something to be said for being as fearless as a harpy, although I’m quite sure I wouldn’t win any popularity contests!

If the ability was a curse and meant to be nasty, the witch would probably turn me into my phobia—a spider! That would be the meanest, nastiest thing anybody could ever do to me!

Q: Since Aryal is a harpy and considered an immortal Wyr, how did you approach her character development in order to make her believable and someone that readers can identify with?

A: I’ll be honest, I was worried about writing Aryal. I really didn’t want to compromise her identity. Aryal has strong emotions but no real morals in the abstract sense, no true compulsion to do what is right for its own sake. She’s abrasive and dangerous… And I had to figure out how to also make her sympathetic.

My first decision was to not be in a hurry to write her story. I wanted to take the time to show her character from a couple of different points of view. The reader first sees Aryal from Pia’s perspective in Dragon Bound, but then in Storm’s Heart I was able to show Aryal from Tricks’ point of view, someone who loved her. I also wanted to make sure that humor came into the mix. Still, the real test came when I sat down and actually started writing Kinked. Then I had to get close enough to her to write her as a main POV character. It helped that I had so many established relationships and characters to work with—such as Grym, Dragos and Graydon—and the world-building in place. With that in place, I could concentrate on developing Aryal herself. I’m very grateful to my editor Cindy Hwang for providing such a supportive platform to write Kinked.

Q: Do you have an Elder Race Bible to help keep your facts start? If not, how the heck do you keep your facts start?

A: So far I’ve had two things in my favor—I’ve got a bit of a freakish memory for detail when it comes to writing, and I also have fantastic beta readers who are good at spotting issues. Still, the world has become big and complicated enough that I’ve got someone working on a series bible right now. It’s over a hundred pages by now and should be done by the end of the year.

Q: Who was the harder character to write Aryal or Quentin and why?

Neither character was as hard as I had feared they would be when I started Kinked. Still, Quentin was easier. I felt more confident writing his character, and I felt the stakes were pretty high on getting Aryal’s character right.

Q: Was there anything about Aryal that surprised you as her story unfolded?

A: I think I probably had the same experience as a writer that several readers have had so far in reading the book—I was surprised at how much I ended up liking and enjoying her. I wouldn’t want to rush out and befriend a real-life Aryal, but I think she’s pretty cool between the pages, and I’m really looking forward to writing more about her.

Q: In the event of an apocalypses (zombie, alien, solar flare or 4 horsemen) which of your characters would you like to team up with?

A: I would absolutely like to team up with Dragos—as long as I was someone he valued, otherwise he might ditch me in a heartbeat.

Q: What is next for the Elder Race series?

A: I’m now contracted for books 7-9, so I’m writing Graydon’s story which will be released around August of 2014. The main characters have also been decided for books 8 and 9, and I’m eager to get to those stories!

I also wrote a self-published project, a novella entitled Dragos Takes A Holiday, which releases November 25^th. I loved spending time with Dragos and Pia, and their little son Peanut gets his POV debut.

It’s been a pleasure to visit with you. Thanks for having me!

*****

Kelly’s review of Kinked:

TITLE: Kinked
SERIES #: Elder Races #6
CHARACTERS: Quentin Caeravorn & Aryal
AUTHOR: Thea Harrison
PUBLICATION DATE: Nov 5, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

Two opponents must confront the cause of their obsessive fury in the latest Novel of the Elder Races…

As a harpy, Sentinel Aryal is accustomed to dealing with hate, but Sentinel Quentin Caeravorn manages to inspire in her a burning ire unlike anything she’s ever known. Aryal believes the new Sentinel to be a criminal, and vows to take him out as soon as the opportunity arises. But the harpy’s incessant wrath has pushed Quentin to the limit, and forces him to make a deadly vow of his own.

To put an end to the conflict, Dragos, Lord of the Wyr, sends them on a reconnaissance mission to the Elven land of Numenlaur. Forced to work together, Aryal and Quentin’s mutual antagonism escalates. Each fight draws forth more passion—culminating in an explosively sexual confrontation. But when their quest reveals real danger, Aryal and Quentin must resolve their differences in ways beyond the physical, before the entire Wyr is threatened.

REVIEW PROVIDED BY: Kelly
NUMBER OF STARS: 3 1/2
REVIEW:
Aryal has been on a mission since the moment she met Quentin. She wants to air out all his dirty laundry and then kill him. But Aryal has been finding that a little difficult she can’t find anything on him.
Quentin has avoided getting close to anyone for so long, that even sex is a hand off act. But Aryal brings something to the surface that he doesn’t like or can control.
Forced together to work on a mission these to are either going to kill each other, come back to no jobs, or learn to work with each other and finally bury the hatch.
Which one will it be.

I enjoyed this story, it was not love until the end. I really enjoyed watching Aryal and Quentin fight each other, the attraction and fate. But there were parts and pieces of the story that were a little boring for me but overall it was a good story. Lots of action, lots of drama and lots of words that I don’t have a clue how to pronounce. 🙂

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.

*****

Giveaway Time!!

*US entries only*a Rafflecopter giveaway

October 31, 2013October 29, 2013

Kimberly reviews The Pleasures Of Autumn by Evie Hunter

TITLE: The Pleasures of Autumn
SERIES #: Pleasures #3
CHARACTERS: Sinead & Niall
AUTHOR: Evie Hunter
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/31/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
When fine arts curator Sinead O’Sullivan is charged with a stealing the Fire of Autumn, a dazzling ruby with a history of violence and treachery, bail is set at one million Swiss francs.

Investigator Niall Moore is hired to stop her fleeing and to find the jewel. Niall knows Sinead’s form as the feisty red-head led him a merry dance when their paths crossed once before. Despite the overwhelming sexual chemistry between them, Niall knows that he cannot trust her.

Sinead toys with Niall, refusing to tell him what she knows about the theft. An expert in interrogation, Niall uses every trick of the trade – and every tool in his erotic armoury – to get at the truth. And Sinead – just as well armed – counters his every move with one of her own.

As thief and thief-taker fight for dominance, there can be only be one winner … but what happens when the stakes are raised and it’s no longer just a jewel and Sinead’s freedom in play?

REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts I was riveted. This was a wonderful read. While it is under the erotica genre there is more story than sex in this book. The characters are ones we have met before in the other Pleasures series but it can certainly be read as a stand alone.

I really enjoyed Sinead. She is an interesting character and more rounded of a character than the previous ladies in the series (even though I enjoyed them too). This should have been called Pleasures of the Gemini. Sinead is such a Gemini of a character. She is two complete characters in one. She enjoys her job at a museum but also has a secret life as a burlesque dancer which fulfills her other side. Naill is interesting as well. He is a Dom with interesting ideas that somehow Sinead finds just as interesting.

I would probably have given this story 5 Hearts except a couple of little things that kept driving me crazy. While I understood why Sinead could not tell Naill about her Lottie side it got tiresome for her to “switch” characters “I will show him Lottie if he thinks Sinead is too demure” type attitude. Even down to looking at herself in the mirror and thinking “this is more Lottie than it is Sinead”. It could be too much when it happened too closely together. But the little things that drove me nuts was things like they are looking for someone (no spoilers) and someone says to Sinead “did you get my email about that?” thinking she was someone else and never once did she say “no what email did you send that too?”. Hello wouldn’t that be the first thing you would ask?

Ok now all that being said I so enjoyed this book. I can’t wait for the next in the Pleasures series and am sad that there are only four seasons. Ummm Pleasures of the Gemini… Maybe they could start with the Zodiac signs which would give us fans 12 more books to enjoy!

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

October 30, 2013October 30, 2013

Winter Romance Wednesday! Kimberly reviews Christmas in Snowflake Canyon by RaeAnne Thayne

TITLE: Christmas in Snowflake Canyon
SERIES #: Hope’s Crossing #6
CHARACTERS: Genevieve & Dylan
AUTHOR: RaeAnne Thayne
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/29/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
No one has ever felt sorry for Genevieve Beaumont. After all, she has everything money can buy. That is, until she discovers her fiancé has been two-timing her and she’s left with two choices: marry the philanderer to please her controlling father or be disinherited and find a means to support herself.

Genevieve’s salvation appears in the most unlikely of prospects: Dylan Caine, a sexy, wounded war vet whose life is as messy as hers. Dylan’s struggling to adjust after his time in Afghanistan, and the last thing he needs is a spoiled socialite learning about the real world for the first time. True, she may have unexpected depths and beauty to match. But he knows he could never be the man she needs…and she knows he could never be the man she thinks she wants. So why are they each hoping that a Christmas miracle willl prove them both wrong?

REVIEW:
4.25 Hearts What a delightful holiday romance. This story has all the good feelings of the holiday season as well as a romance that will melt any heart. I loved watching the character of Gen morph into the woman that the reader knows she will be by the end of the book. While she iz used to the finer things in life it is her heart that is made of gold.

Dylan is sweet and charming this is not his story. It is Gen’s. The reader wants them together but not because she has fallen for Dylan but she wants Gen to triumph. Ok yes maybe there are others out there that won’t agree but it is my review after all.

Looking for a holiday romance to curl up in front of the fire with? This one is it.

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