SINsational Saturday Series: Melinda Leigh & Kendra Elliot’s Rogue River Series

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Just love that when you put all four covers together they make one scene.

Now lets look at each novella in the Rogue River series

*****

On Her Father’s Grave

Rogue River #1

Elliot_OnHerFather'sGrave_CV_FT

In a small town like Solitude, Oregon, keeping a secret can be murder.

Stevie Taylor had left her sleepy Oregon hometown for a more exciting life. But after her police chief father passes away, the LAPD cop returns to Solitude and signs on as a patrol officer, hoping to heal from her loss…and from the horrific things she’s seen in the city.

In Solitude, everyone knows everyone else’s business—and, to Stevie’s dismay, local gossip soon ties her to the new police chief and a man from her past. Tragedy then shakes up the small town when a teenager dies after taking a strange new drug. Now, the seasoned LA cop must hunt down the dealer while investigating the most important case of her life, one that could divide her tranquil town.

The first of four thrilling Rogue River novellas, On Her Father’s Grave launches a new romantic suspense series from Kendra Elliot and Melinda Leigh

*****

Gone to Her Grave

Rogue River #2

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Expected publication  October 21, 2014

In Solitude, Oregon, everyone has secrets…and some will kill to keep them.

When she believes a teen is falsely accused of drug dealing, social worker Carly Taylor takes on a high-risk case and her estranged husband—the detective in charge of the investigation—to prove the boy innocent. A deadly new designer drug has taken hold of her small rural hometown of Solitude, Oregon, and Carly is determined to find the real dealer and clear the teen’s name. But the deeper she digs into the case, the more danger she unearths, until someone decides it’s time for Carly to move on…permanently.

Investigator Seth Harding knows he can’t stop his wife when she has a child to protect. But he risks any chance of reconciliation with Carly if he can’t learn to accept her dangerous job. When a drug dealer decides Carly is getting too close, will Seth lose her altogether?

A pulse-pounding Rogue River novella, Gone to Her Grave is the second exciting addition to the new romantic suspense series from Melinda Leigh and Kendra Elliot.

*****

Her Grave Secrets

Rogue River #3

Elliot_HerGraveSecrets_CV_FT

Expected publication: November 4th 2014

There are no secrets in a small town—until someone has one worth dying for.

Local cop Stevie Taylor and police chief Zane Duncan have startling new proof that a deadly street drug is expanding its poisonous grip on their small town: a skull found on the banks of the Rogue River has two bullet holes in the back. Still caught up in the excitement of their new relationship, Stevie and Zane are determined to track down the drug’s source before more lives in Solitude, Oregon, are lost.

Then one death strikes especially close to home, leading to heartache and confusion for Stevie. As the drug distributers strike hard and the body count in Solitude grows higher, she and Zane must hunt down the deadly killer—but are they the predators, or the prey?

Filled with unexpected twists, Her Grave Secrets is the third exciting Rogue River novella in the romantic suspense series from Kendra Elliot and Melinda Leigh.

******

Walking on Her Grave

Rogue River #4

Leigh_WalkingOnHerGrave_CV_FT

Expected publication: November 18th 2014

The electrifying conclusion of the romantic suspense novella series from Melinda Leigh and Kendra Elliot.

The sleepy town of Solitude, Oregon, has turned into ground zero for a turf war between the manufacturers and distributors of a lethal new drug. When a teenage witness disappears, social worker Carly Taylor must find him before he’s silenced permanently.

Rogue County investigator Seth Harding wants to keep Carly, his estranged wife, out of harm’s way, but she refuses to let his concern keep her from doing her job. When one of her young charges vanishes, Carly gets pulled even deeper into the deadly case, and Seth knows he must help her…even if it leads them right into the criminals’ crosshairs.

Explosive and exciting to the last page, Walking on Her Grave is the fourth and final thrilling addition to the new romantic suspense series from Melinda Leigh and Kendra Elliot

Kelly reviews Tempted by Midnight (1001 Dark Nights #10) by Lara Adrian

tempted by midnightTITLE: Tempted by Midnight (1001 Dark Nights #10)
SERIES #: Midnight Breed #12.5
CHARACTERS: Lazaro Archer & Melena Walsh
AUTHOR: Lara Adrian
PUBLICATION DATE: October 14, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N (coming soon)

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Once, they lived in secret alongside mankind. Now, emerged from the shadows, the Breed faces enemies on both sides—human and vampire alike. No one knows that better than Lazaro Archer, one of the eldest, most powerful of his kind. His beloved Breedmate and family massacred by a madman twenty years ago, Lazaro refuses to open his heart again.

Sworn to his duty as the leader of the Order’s command center in Italy, the last thing the hardened warrior wants is to be tasked with the rescue and safekeeping of an innocent woman in need of his protection. But when a covert mission takes a deadly wrong turn, Lazaro finds himself in the unlikely role of hero with a familiar, intriguing beauty he should not desire, but cannot resist.

Melena Walsh has never forgotten the dashing Breed male who saved her life as a child. But the chivalrous hero of her past is in hard contrast to the embittered, dangerous man on whom her safety now depends. And with an unwanted—yet undeniable—desire igniting between them, Melena fears that Lazaro’s protection may come at the price of her heart.

REVIEW:
4.75 Hearts Oh novella’s how I love to hate you. Love because I get more stories from Lara Adrian about the Midnight Breed’s. Hate you because I read you to fast and my experience is over so quickly.
With that I give you my thoughts.

Starting Tempted by Midnight I was transported back to when Lazaro’s family was killed. It was so bitter sweet. Because I remember crying when it happened. But in Tempted by Midnight Lazaro meets with fate. A fate that he didn’t want yet could not resist.

Melena has be awestruck by Lazaro Archer since the moment he saved her a stupid little girl trying to prove her toughness. But now she finds herself in awe of the man. The man that just saved her life yet again.

I loved this novella. Love Lazaro. Loved Melena. Really wish the story was longer (insert dramatic sigh). But as with all novella’s I can’t give you to much (what fun would that be). If you are a Midnight Breed fan you will love and devour this novella. If you are new to the Midnight Breed you could actually read this novella and be okay. BUT I think you should start at the beginning and get catch up. There is a LOT of history behind this book.

So can’t wait to see what Lara has in store for the Midnight Breeds next.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Evil Eye Concepts & 1001 Dark Nights in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

5hearts-68-77

Jennifer reviews He’s So Fine by Jill Shalvis

hes so fineTITLE: He’s So Fine
SERIES #: Lucky Harbor #11
CHARACTERS: Olivia Bentley and Cole Donovan
AUTHOR: Jill Shalvis
PUBLICATION DATE: 09/30/14
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
For Olivia Bentley, Lucky Harbor is more than the town where she runs her new vintage shop. It’s the place where folks are friendly to strangers-and nobody knows her real name. Olivia does a good job of keeping her past buried, not getting too cozy with anyone . . . until she sees a man drowning. Suddenly she’s rushing into the surf, getting up close and personal with the hottest guy she’s ever laid hands on.

Charter boat captain Cole Donovan has no problem with a gorgeous woman throwing her arms around his neck in an effort to “save” him. In fact, he’d like to spend a lot more time skin-to-skin with Olivia. He’s just not expecting that real trouble is about to come her way. Will it bring her deeper into Cole’s heart, or will it be the end of Olivia’s days in little Lucky Harbor?

REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts I absolutely adore the Lucky Harbor series and He’s So Fine was such a touching romantic tale about two people finding love while overcoming the hurt of past relationships. Olivia Bentley came to Lucky Harbor to start over with a normal life and leave her famous television past behind her. She had a successful business but knows that something is missing in her life until she meets sexy Cole Donovan. Cole would love to get to know Olivia better but the pain of his past prevents him from truly trusting the love that is right in front of him. When her past finally comes to light, Cole may throw everything away because he can’t let go of the past relationship that he thought he had left behind.
I really liked Olivia from the very beginning of the book. She wanted desperately to create a new life for herself and get people to like her because of who she was now, instead of who she was in her past. Her family kept hounding her to do a reunion special to cash in on the television character that she was and seemed to have no interest in actually spending time with Olivia. Only getting what they felt she “owed” them, which made me extremely angry. I hate people that try to take advantage of others and Olivia deserved so much more than that. She gave her heart completely to Cole but she knew in the back of her mind that once he found out the truth about who she really was, he would run the other way.
Cole seemed to have everything figured out and he just kept going on with his life without dealing with a past betrayal. He cared about Olivia but always seemed to be holding back and waiting for her to make a mistake. He used that past relationship as a compass for love and if anything in that relationship wasn’t completely true then the whole thing was a lie in his eyes. He had to learn that everything isn’t always black and white and Olivia never once made him feel that her love wasn’t the real thing. She hid her past because she wanted something that was real, not something that was tainted and a mirage created due to her television childhood. The ending of this book made me cry because Olivia’s past and future came together in a good way and Cole finally realized what he always had right in front of him.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

4 Hearts
4 Hearts

Winter Romance Wednesday! Kelly & Kimberly review On The Naughty List by Lori Foster, Carly Phillips, Beth Ciotta & Sugar Jamison

on the naughty listTITLE: On the Naughty List
CHARACTERS: Multiple
AUTHOR: Lori Foster, Carly Phillips, Beth Ciotta & Sugar Jamison
PUBLICATION DATE: October 14, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
The most wonderful time of the year is back with On The Naughty List, bringing perennial favorite holiday stories from Lori Foster and Carly Phillips, along with two Christmas stories that delighted readers a year ago. This sexy anthology will make you want to give your heart to Christmas again and again…

Lori Foster has two co-workers plan a Christmas party side-by-side-and discover a love worth celebrating in Christmas Bonus.

Carly Phillips explores a “mistletoe moment” when a no-nonsense lawyer intent on seducing her boss meets his twin instead–and gives him a scintillating kiss that leaves him begging for more in Naughty Under the Mistletoe.

Beth Ciotta brings two friends who, after years apart, together at home for the holidays. They don’t seem to have much in common anymore, but when the two get stranded together during a blizzard, they are forced to reexamine if they are better off as “just friends”? Or could it be that true love was there all along? in Some Kind of Wonderful.

In Sugar Jamison’s Have Yourself a Curvy Little Christmas, former wild child Dina Gregory returns home to New York to find the father of her young son. Instead, she finds his stuffy older brother, Ben. Ben can’t help but admire her tenacity—and her bold beauty. Could it be that Dina has reignited his Christmas spirit?

KELLY’S REVIEW:
4 Hearts It is always hard to review novella’s without giving too much of the story away so below is a quick and dirty review for each.
Christmas Bonus: Characters: Eric Bragg & Maggie Carmichael
Eric has been interest in Maggie for years, except now she is his boss. Any hope of a relationship with her has gone out the window. Or has it?
Maggie needs Eric. She needs him to help her by being her date for the company Christmas party. It is the perfect plan to seduce the man she is in love with. But will Eric take the bait?
Eric & Maggie were great!!
Naughty Under the Mistletoe: Characters: Maxwell Cobin & Antonia Larson
A hot kiss under the mistletoe with the man of your dreams is the perfect way to start the holiday season. Only problem Toni just kissed the wrong man.

And Max thought going to his father’s company Christmas party was going to be boring.

Max & Toni were really fun to read.

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

Have Yourself a Curvy Little Christmas: Characters: Ben Rowe & Dina Gregory
I think this was my favorite story of the four. I love Ben & Dina!
I just loved Ben. He is dark, stuffy and stubborn and in need of a lot of light and laughter in this life.
Dina is one tough cookie who has not lived the best life. But now that she has her son she wants to be better and that means facing the father of her son.
I for sure am going to pick up more of Sugar Jamison’s stories.

KIMBERLY’S REVIEW:
3.5 Hearts Christmas Bonus: 3 Hearts – This story was just ok. While short it seemed to take forever to read. The characters just don’t seem to mesh either. Erik acts like a old man not just in his early thirties. And Maggie is 22 but asks like the 17 year old she was when they met. Not my cup of tea.

Naughty Under The Mistletoe: 3.5 Hearts – This story is cute. Different with the whole twin brother thing. Enjoyable short read.

Some Kind Of Wonderful: 3.5 Hearts – This is part of a series that I haven’t read. It is cute. I wanted to read more but it was still good. I may have to go back to read the series.

Have Yourself A Curvy Little Christmas: I read this story last winter. I gave it 4 stars. See review at Books-n-Kisses.

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

4 Hearts
4 Hearts

Kelly & Kimberly review One In A Million by Jill Shalvis

one in a millionTITLE: One in a Million
SERIES #: Lucky harbor #12
CHARACTERS: Tanner Riggs & Callie Sharpe
AUTHOR: Jill Shalvis
PUBLICATION DATE: October 14, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
As the brains behind wedding site TyingTheKnot.com, Callie sees it all: from the ring to the dress, the smiles . . . to the tears. It’s that last part that keeps her single and not looking. Getting left at the altar will do that to a girl. But when Callie returns to her old hometown, she finds that her sweet high school crush is sexier than ever. And he makes it hard to remember why she’s sworn off love . . .

Tanner is a deep-sea diver with a wild, adrenaline-junkie past—and now his teenage son is back in his life. How can Tanner be a role model when he’s still paying for his own mistakes? It’s hard enough that gorgeous Callie has appeared in town like a beautiful dream, challenging his best-laid plans to keep his heart on lockdown. Though there’s something about being around her again that makes him feel like he can be the man she—and his son—deserve. Little Lucky Harbor holds their past; can it hold a beautiful new future?

KELLY’S REVIEW:
4.75 Hearts Seriously, I can not get enough of Jill Shalvis’ Lucky Harbor books. Every single book that I have read I have totally and utterly fallen in love with. I am so very upset and hope that this is not true that this is the last Lucky Harbor novel. I know there is a novella to come in December. But I honestly don’t know what I am going to do about not having a new Lucky Harbor book in my future. Well I guess I could do a re-read. And I guess I can hope that Ms. Shalvis will come to her senses and realize that Lucky Harbor needs more love stories.

That being said back to One in a Million. There was just something about Tanner that grabbed me when he stepped on the pages in He’s So Fine. Now don’t get me wrong Cole & Sam are hot and I loved them too. But Tanner stole my heart. There is just something about this tough, wounded, ex Navy Seal that screams “I need a hug”. But never fear Callie seems to have that part covered (darn her 😉 ) Anywhoo….. Loved loved loved loved this book. Loved Callie (even if I wanted to slap her up side the head a time or two. Thank goodness for Lucille).
Loved this whole series. And honestly tearing up just a bit that it could be over. But never say never right *sniff, sniff* If you are a Lucky Harbor fan you will totally love One in a Million. If you are new you really should start at the beginning with Simply Irresistible.

KIMBERLY’S REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts Well this is it. This is the end. But what a way to go. Jill Shalvis brought us to this tiny town of Lucky Harbor and through 12 books she let us meet 12 wonderful couple, a nosy old lady with a social media fascination, a few great kids, and a wonderful town and now we have to say goodbye but not before the 12th couple connects and that is Callie and Tanner.

Maybe because it was so bittersweet this might be my favorite couple that Shalvis has written. Maybe she just saved the best for last. I don’t know but I really enjoyed Callie and Tanner. First I adored Tanner for the last two books. I love the bro-romance the three amigos have and enjoyed reading their story and since Tanner was such a big part of the other books maybe that gave me more time to fall in love with him but no matter how it happened I did just that. And Callie.. well she is something. She is so sweet and loving and a little broken and love-shy and yet you not only want to be friends with her but pull her in and hug her. Troy is a great character too and another reason to open your arms for a hug.

No fan of contemporary romance should miss this series. Lucky Harbor is a wonderful place to visit and I am sad to know that one of my favorite fictional vacation spots will be no more but I enjoyed the times I got to visit and thank Shalvis for all the wonderful people I met along the way. Here’s to the next series may it be as wonderful as this one.

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.

4 Hearts
4 Hearts

Kelly reviews The Hunger by Donna Grant

The hungerTITLE: The Hunger
SERIES #: Rouges of Scotland #2
CHARACTERS: Morcant Banner & Leana
AUTHOR: Donna Grant
PUBLICATION DATE: October 13, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
A MAN’S SECOND CHANCE TO LIVE

Cursed by a gypsy and banished to a realm of darkness for over two hundred years, Morcant Banner resigns himself to an eternity of torture. With need and frustration his ever-present companions, he’s given up hope of ever seeing his friends again, let alone knowing the pleasures of a woman. When he is suddenly freed from his prison by a very beautiful, very wary woman, he’s forced to face a reality much different from the one he remembers. A reality without the men he once called brothers, but with Leana who makes him hunger like no other…

A WOMAN’S CHANCE TO TRUST

Introverted and guarded, Leana freely admits that she prefers the quiet of the forest to the company of people. She’s comfortable in her independence and enjoys her solitude. When she stumbles upon a mysterious man unconscious in the forest, the very same man she’s had a vision about, she begins to believe in the magic the villagers whisper about. Because only magic could explain the uncontrollable, irresistible longing she feels for the handsome Morcant. But can she give in to her desires, knowing that he could leave her like everyone else?

REVIEW:
Darkness
Longing
Freedom

3.75 Hearts The Hunger is the second novella in Donna Grant’s Rogues of Scotland and follows Morcant’s journey. If you have not read novella #1 The Craving, I would suggest that you read. But you don’t have too The Hunger recaps what happens to the Rogues. It is so hard sometimes to review a novella. Because so much happens in such a short time. And if I tell you to much I will give everything away.
So let’s go with this. After almost 200 years of darkness Morcant will not let anyone stand in his way of seeing the sun for the rest of his life. Leana thought that being alone was okay, that she was fine and that she didn’t need anyone. Oh how wrong she was.

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

4 Hearts
4 Hearts

Kelly & Kimberly review Stirring Up Trouble by Kimberly Kincaid

stirring up troubleTITLE: Stirring Up Trouble
SERIES #: Pine Mountain #3
CHARACTERS: Gavin Carmichael & Sloane Russo
AUTHOR: Kimberly Kincaid
PUBLICATION DATE: October 7, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Looking for inspiration…

Sloane Russo’s turned a decade of crazy jobs and whimsical travel into a career writing steamy novels set in exotic places. Trouble is, Sloane’s flat broke now—and she can’t channel sun-drenched beaches in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The only fast cash in town comes with some seriously distracting temptation: Gavin Carmichael, hot, handsome and oh-so-hard-headed.

Gavin isn’t the impulsive Don Juan of Sloane’s novels. He’s raising his thirteen-year-old half-sister, and he’s pretty sure he’s supposed to act like he’s never heard of fun. Sloane is way too sexy and irresponsible to be his idea of a good tutor for Bree, but the unpredictable anti-nanny may be irresistible as well.

KELLY’S REVIEW:
4 Hearts What has Sloane Russo not done in her life. Let’s see she has been a delivery girl, a hand model, traveled to exotic places and is now a writer. But the one thing that she has never done is to stay in one place and fall in love.
Gavin Carmichael has traveled the world but he gave that up to take care of his little sister after his mom passed. But now he is in desperate need of a babysitter. Unfortunately the only person available is Sloane Russo.
Awe another good visit to Pine Mountain. I loved Gavin & Sloane’s story. They are such polar opposites. Or maybe they are like magnets. It was great fun watching them collide together. And Bree adds some much needed teen drama to the book too. I hope that we will get a glance at these three in future books. But until then savor you wine slowing and love hard.

KIMBERLY’S REVIEW:
3 Hearts So this is going to sound weird but I really thought this book was written just for me. The authors name is Kimberly (like mine) and a background character is named Vice Principal WIlkerson which is my maiden name. But nope. I just couldn’t get into this story.

The characters never seemed to mess for me. They just never got that connection. More importantly I never connected with the characters. Gavin is just so uptight. He reminds me of the stereotypical butler. Uptight, reserved and dry. Sloane is really smart but never seems to warm up.

I have enjoyed the others in the series but this one just didn’t make the cut.

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

4 Hearts
4 Hearts

Kelly reviews Ruining Mr. Perfect by Marie Harte

ruining mr perfectTITLE: Ruining Mr. Perfect
SERIES #: The McCauley Brothers #3
CHARACTERS: Cameron McCauley & Vanessa Campbell
AUTHOR: Marie Harte
PUBLICATION DATE: October 14, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon|B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
it’s Not Easy Being Right…

Vanessa Campbell is a CPA by day and a perfectionist by night. She’s fit, successful…and decidedly lonely. She can’t stop thinking about the youngest McCauley brother, Cameron. He’s just like her: smart, attractive, and usually right—except when dealing with her.

…But Someone’s Got To Do It.

Cameron McCauley likes Vanessa a little too well. She’s a blond goddess with a razor-sharp tongue. She hates to be wrong, just like him. But she can hold a grudge and is stubborn to a fault—also like him.

A past misunderstanding has them rubbing each other the wrong way. Cam is dying to shake Vanessa up—get her to let loose. But if he succeeds, can his heart handle it?

REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts Awe, Marie does it again. I think Cameron & Vanessa are my favorite so far. I just love how they are so much a like yet different. That Cameron knows how to push Vanessa’s buttons and how she fights back. I loved how even when they fight they don’t really fight. Unless of course Vanessa is wrong then the fight is to the death. These two are just great.
And the side story with Pop & Bitsy is great too. And I loved the introduction to Mike & Del’s book. hehehe….. This one is going to be a fun ride, can’t wait to read.
If you have not started this series you should really think about it. These McCauley boys are hot and know what they are doing. Well most of the time 🙂 And if I were you I would start at the beginning (you don’t have to but I would)
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.

4 Hearts
4 Hearts

Kelly reviews Keep Me Safe by Maya Banks

Keep me safeTITLE: Keep Me Safe
SERIES #: Slow Burn #1
CHARACTERS: Caleb Devereaux & Ramie St.Claire
AUTHOR: Maya Banks
PUBLICATION DATE: October 7, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
A sizzling story of a woman who risks her life and her heart to find a wealthy man’s missing sister—the first novel in a sexy new romantic suspense series from #1 New York Times bestselling author Maya Banks

When Caleb Devereaux’s younger sister is kidnapped, this scion of a powerful and wealthy family turns to an unlikely source for help: a beautiful and sensitive woman with a gift for finding answers others cannot.

While Ramie can connect to victims and locate them by feeling their pain, her ability comes with a price. Every time she uses it, it costs her a piece of herself. Helping the infuriatingly attractive and impatient Caleb successfully find his sister nearly destroys her. Even though his sexual intensity draws her like a magnet, she needs to get as far away from him as she can.

Deeply remorseful for the pain he’s caused, Caleb is determined to make things right. But just when he thinks Ramie’s vanished forever, she reappears. She’s in trouble and she needs his help. Now, Caleb will do risk everything to protect her—including his heart

REVIEW:
Keep Me Safe is book one in Maya Banks new Slow Burn trilogy. This is going to be a very interesting trilogy. A lot of mystery and mystique. I will say that as this story began I had my doubts because events happen that I don’t care to read about. But I understand why it was written into the story and thankfully it was not detailed. That being said I enjoyed the rest of the story.
Keep Me Safe is a bit heartbreaking, yet the characters always hold out hope. I honestly had hoped that things would not go as far as they did. But, I am not the author and don’t have control of the direction of the story. I liked this story, but was not in love with it.
I do plan on reading the next two books in this trilogy. I really want to know how Tori is doing and what is happening with Quinn & Beau.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Edelweiss & William Morris Paperback & Avon in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

3hearts-68-77

Winter Romance Wednesday: Kelly & Kimberly review A Highland Wolf Christmas by Terry Spears

highland wolf christmasTITLE: A Highland Wolf Christmas
SERIES #: Heart of the Wolf #15
CHARACTERS: Guthrie MacNeill & Calle Steward
AUTHOR: Terry Spears
PUBLICATION DATE: October 7, 2014
ORDER LINKS:Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Financial advisor Guthrie MacNeill isn’t a complete Scrooge—he just hates the enormous cost associated with the Christmas holiday season. Needless to say, when his pack hires a party planner to decorate the castle, he’s at his wit’s end. Until Calla Stewart arrives on the scene with her mistletoe in hand.

Calla has never had a client as difficult as Guthrie, but she’s determined to give the pack a Christmas season they will never forget—no matter how much it costs. But when her ex-fiancé begins stalking her and threatening her safety, Guthrie decides to loosen his grip on the purse strings and let out his inner Highland warrior wolf to protect her.

KELLY’S REVIEW:
3.75 Hearts Another good Highland Wolf story by Ms. Spears. I enjoyed reading about Guthrie & Calla. These two were fun to read about in Hero of a Highland Wolf when Calla stole Guthrie boxers and hung them up on a pole. From that moment on I knew these two would be great fun to read. And of course the did not disappoint. Both are coming off of bad breakups and both are a little gun shy about a new relationship. Yet they can’t seem to keep their hands and lips for that matter off each other. So rationally the only thing to do is court right? Unfortunately the pass and the people in it keep coming back to try to hurt Calla. But that doesn’t stop them from having a great story.
I am looking forward to the next installment in the Highland Wolf series.

Favorite scene: what is a male wolf to do when trapped under a christmas, while trapping the she wolf he is interested in under him? Well kiss the hell out of her of course. hehehehe Love it. Kissing under the Mistletoe my but, new holiday tradition kissing under the falling christmas tree.

KIMBERLY’S REVIEW:
4.25 Hearts I enjoyed this story very much. I have read some of the series but not all of it but this certainly can be read as a stand alone you will just have the feeling that you missed the story of some of the background characters.

Cassie and Guthrie seem to be perfect for each other. We met Cassie in the last book and we knew she was meant for Guthrie when she stole his boxers for the pirate party the lass’ were having. And we knew there was a connection right then and there and boy is there. Cassie is just coming off of a broken engagement to a wolf she thinks she loved but once she is with Guthrie she wonders if she ever really loved the other wolf. But Baird is not letting her go and while it takes a while we learn why.

The connection that the brothers have is a wonderful back story as well. The closeness is something every family should have. I will say there is not a lot about Christmas in this story so if you are wanting a Holiday themed story this is really not it. But it is a sweet winter tale and one to enjoy if you enjoy the genre.

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.

4 Hearts
4 Hearts

Winter Romance Wednesday: Kelly & Kimberly review The Christmas Wedding Ring by Susan Mallery

christmas wedding ringTITLE: The Christmas Wedding Ring
CHARACTERS: Dylan Black & Molly Anderson
AUTHOR: Susan Mallery
PUBLICATION DATE: Reissue date October 7, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Re-issue of Wedding Ring Promise – Originally published 1998.

New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery returns with a classic story of destiny, desire and a little holiday magic!

In her youth, Molly Anderson couldn’t help crushing on gorgeous bad-boy Dylan Black?even though he only had eyes for her older sister. When things didn’t work out between them, he said goodbye to Molly as well, vowing they’d have a great adventure when she grew up. Years later, dumped by her fianc? just before Christmas, she’s finally ready to take Dylan up on his promise.

A guarded Dylan always had a weakness for Molly, and when she waltzes back into his life?grown-up and gorgeous?he’s stunned. So why not whisk her away for some no-strings-attached fun?

Laughter-filled days and late-night kisses are changing Molly’s life, for good. The only gift she truly wants now is Dylan’s love, but when he discovers the secret she’s been keeping, she may lose him again?this time forever

KELLY’S REVIEW:
4 Hearts As a warning: this is a rei-issue of Ms. Mallery’s The Wedding Ring Promise. It even states that in the blurb so when I see that people are complaining about it being a re-issue it upsets me. But any ways. I loved this story. It was a quick and sweet read.

You know what they say about bad things coming in three’s will Molly Anderson’s week from hell fits that bill perfectly. First, she gets downsized. Second, she finds out her now ex-fiance ran off to Mexico with his secretary. And lastly, could be a matter of life or death. So what is one to do when faced with the week from hell? You find an old gift from a friend with a promise of “Whenever, Wherever, I will be there for you and talk you on an adventure”.

The last person Dylan Black ever expected to darken his door step was little Molly Anderson, who is not so little any more. When Molly comes to collect on a promise made 14 years ago he is ready. Ready to take a step away from his life and the decisions he needs to make.

I really loved Dylan and Molly’s story. While this story line might have been told many many times (Bad boy and the girl who had a major crush on him) Ms. Mallery made it feel like the first time I read that story line. I loved the drama of Molly’s week and how well Dylan deals with her ups and downs. I really enjoyed watching these two fall in love.

If you are a Susan Mallery fan and have not read this story yet I would suggest picking up a copy of The Christmas Wedding Ring and find out for yourself.

KIMBERLY’S REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts I thought I had pretty much read every Susan Mallery book out there but somehow I missed them one but I am glad I finally got a chance to read it because I really enjoyed it. I will say it is certainly different than the way Mallery writes now but at the same time it still has the same feel to it. Molly is strong even though she is going through a lot and I mean a lot. Dylan is gorgeous and has a heart of gold. That is what the basis is for any of Mallery’s books and this does not disappoint.

This story is a lesson of life in a sweet holiday story. This is Mallery’s story that reminds us to live in the moment, do not take anything for granted and to enjoy what you have because you never know when it will be taken away. Molly is going through so much. Within three days her life falls apart and yet she holds her head high, she has a smile on her face and she has a sense of humor. Yes she is scared but she is also living. Dylan is supportive and a great gy but honestly while he is a big part of the story and we learn a bit of a lesson for him this is truly Molly’s story.

Susan Mallery’s stories are not to be missed. Even this re-release.

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

4 Hearts
4 Hearts

Kelly reviews Broken by Laura Wright

BrokenTITLE: Broken
SERIES #: The Cavanaugh Brothers#2
CHARACTERS: James Cavanaugh & Sheridan O’Neil
AUTHOR: Laura Wright
PUBLICATION DATE: October 7, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
The Cavanaugh brothers left behind River Black, Texas, long ago. But after their father dies, bequeathing them the Triple C, a cattle ranch that sustains their small town, they return—and confront the painful memories of their childhood home and the truth about their sister’s murder…

For years, James Cavanaugh has traveled the world as a horse whisperer, but even the millions he’s earned hasn’t healed the pain he hides behind his stoic exterior. Forced to tackle old demons at the ranch, James throws himself into work to avoid his true feelings. Until he meets a woman who shakes the foundations of his well-built walls…

Sheridan O’Neil’s quiet confidence has served her well, except when it comes to romance. Tired of rejection, she’s ready to swear off men. But after being rescued from a horse stampede by the most beautiful cowboy she’s ever met, her resolve wavers. Only, as Sheridan uncovers James’s belief that no woman is safe with him, she wonders if such a wounded man could ever give in to love, or if some hearts are too broken to be healed

REVIEW:
3.5 Hearts Being back on the Triple C Ranch is great. Love me some hot, alpha male cowboy. But James and Sheridan were lacking something for me. Oh yes, there were times that I just loved them. But there were also times that I felt a little disconnected with them. It could be the error of mystery that the Cavanaugh brothers have been trying to solve for yes. It could have been James’ demons of his past. I am not sure. But even with that it was a good story and it left me wanting to know more about what really happened to Cass. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley & PENGUIN GROUP Berkley, NAL / Signet Romance, DAW in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

3hearts-68-77