Category: Ursula’s Review

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Ursula reviews Game Misconduct by Bianca Sommerland

TITLE: Game Misconduct
SERIES #: Dartmouth Cobras #1
CHARACTERS: Oriana Delgado, Max Perron
AUTHOR: Bianca Sommerland
PUBLICATION DATE: 02/09/2012
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
The game has always cast a shadow over Oriana Delgado’s life. She should hate the game. But she doesn’t. The passion and the energy of the sport are part of her. But so is the urge to drop the role of the Dartmouth Cobra owner’s ‘good daughter’ and find a less…conventional one.

Playmaker Max Perron never expected a woman to accept him and his twisted desires. Oriana came close, but he wasn’t surprised when she walked away. A girl like her needs normal. Which he can’t give her. He’s too much of a team player, and not just on the ice.

But then Oriana’s father goes too far in trying to control her and she decides to use exposure as blackmail. Just the implication of her spending the night with the Cobras’ finest should get her father to back off.

Turns out a team player is exactly what she needs.

Warning:
This ebook contains material not suitable for readers under 18. It also contains scenes that some may find objectionable, including BDSM, ménage sex, bondage, anal sex, sex toys, double penetration, voyeurism, edge play, and hockey equipment being used inappropriately.

REVIEW:
I will start out by saying that this is not your usual menage book. There are several groupings throughout the book but in the end, Oriana ends up with just 3. I love a good menage book as much as the next girl but this one got quite a bit confusing at times. I kind of felt like I needed a diagram to help me keep up. Also most confusing was the fact that the author kept switching between the characters first names and last names so that sometimes I lost track of who I was reading about.

Other than that this was a good book. There was some hot love scenes and you get a heavy glimpse into the BDSM scene. Plenty of family drama to keep the reader interested and I am excited to get the chance to read about Oriana’s sister, Silver, in the next book. Bottom line, if you love hockey, then you will like this book.

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

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Ursula reviews Defensive Zone by Bianca Sommerland

TITLE: Defensive Zone
SERIES #: Dartmouth Cobras #2
CHARACTERS: Silver Delgado, Dean Richter, Landon Bower
AUTHOR: Bianca Sommerland
PUBLICATION DATE: 05/24/2012
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Silver Delgado has gained control of The Dartmouth Cobras—and lost control of her life.

Hockey might be the family business, but it’s never interested Silver. Until her father’s health decline thrusts responsibility for the team he owns straight into her hands. Now she has to find a way to get the team more fans, and establish herself as the new owner. Which means standing up to Dean Richter, the general manager and the advisor her father has forced on her. The fact that their ‘business relationship’ started with her over his lap at his BDSM club shouldn’t be too much of a problem. Their hot one night stand meant nothing! But how can she earn his respect when he sees her as submissive? Can they separate work and the lifestyle she’s curious to explore?

Balancing her new life away from Hollywood, living among people who see her as the selfish Delgado princess, has her feeling lost and alone until Landon Bower, the Cobras new Goalie slips into her life and becomes her best—and only—friend. The time they spend together makes everything else bearable, but before long his eyes meet hers with more than friendship, reflecting what she feels. Which could ruin everything.

Two Dominant men who see past her pretty mask and the shallow image she portrayed to the flashing cameras. A gentle attack from both sides that she can’t hope to block unless she learns how to play.

But she’s getting the hang of the game.

Warning
This ebook contains material not suitable for readers under 18. In also contains scenes that some may find objectionable, including BDSM, ménage sex, bondage, anal sex, sex toys, double penetration, edge play, and two Doms that will use any means necessary to earn submission. Author assumes no responsibility for repercussions related to reenacting office scenes, but will take full credit for all pleasure involved.

REVIEW:
I loved this book. The character of Silver was my favorite. I really felt for her. I wanted to cuddle her and make everything alright for her. I know a lot of people thought she was a bitch but I could tell she was just misunderstood. In the first book the glimpses of her were enough to make me want to know more. I think the author did a good job of showing the personal character growth of all the characters in this book, but especially Silver. I am glad that her relationship with her sister was repaired, because those two really need each other with the monster of a father they have.

I felt that this book was definitely better written and better edited than the first book. You could really see the writer’s growth and also it wasn’t as confusing. Also we get a tempting glimpse into the next book’s main characters. I am looking forward to reading book 3.

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

4 Hearts

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Ursula reviews Breakaway by Bianca Sommerland

TITLE: Breakaway
SERIES #: Dartmouth Cobras #3
CHARACTERS: Jami Richer, Sebastian Ramos, Luke Carter
AUTHOR: Bianca Sommerland
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/04/2012
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Against some attacks, the only hope is to come out and meet the play.

Last year, Jami Richter had no plans, no goals, no future. But that’s all changed. First step, make up for putting her father through hell by supporting the hockey team he manages and becoming an Ice Girl. But a photo shoot puts her right in the arms of Sebastian Ramos, a Dartmouth Cobra defenseman with a reputation for getting any woman—or, as the rumours imply, man—he desires. And the powerful dominant wants her…and Luke. Getting involved in Seb’s lifestyle gives her a new understanding of the game and the bonds between players. But can she handle being caught between two men who want her, while struggling with their attraction to one another?

Luke Carter’s life is about as messed up as his scarred face. His mother is sick. His girlfriend dumps him. When he goes to his favorite BDSM club to blow off some steam, his Dom status is turned upside down when a therapeutic beating puts him in a good place. He flatly denies being submissive–or, even worse, being attracted to another man. He wants Jami but can’t have her without getting involved with Sebastian. Can he overcome his own prejudices long enough to admit he wants them both?

Caught between Luke and Jami, Sebastian Ramos does everything in his power to fulfill their needs. His two new submissives willingly share their bodies, but not their secrets. When his own past comes back to haunt him, the fragile foundation of their relationship is ripped apart. As he works to salvage the damage done by doubt and insecurity, he discovers that Jami is hiding something dangerous. But it may already be too late.

Warning
This ebook contains material not suitable for readers under 18. It also contains scenes that some may find objectionable, including hockey violence, BDSM, ménage sex, bondage, anal sex, sex toys, multiple partners, woman love, and man love including, but not limited to an erotic shower scene. Readers are advised not to attempt reenacting the scene while reading the ebook.

REVIEW:
I think this was my favorite book of the series. I really enjoyed the characters and the growth they went through. There were plenty of obstacles to keep these 3 apart and they were not easily overcome. I like that the author didn’t gloss over the issues that they had to confront and overcome. Again, you can really see the writing improve as the series progresses. We also get a glimpse into previous characters lives and what is going on with them now.

I liked the added drama of the problematic ex and his family. Seems like the author is heading towards reforming the half brother and maybe making him a major character in an upcoming book. Seeing as how I like how she changed and redeemed both Silver and Jami look forward to seeing how it will all come out.

The only thing about this book that I didn’t love was how it seemed to be used as a springboard, or more like excuse to introduce more gay/bi characters. It just kind of seemed like a little convenient. I will be curious to see how it all plays out in future books in the series.

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

4 Hearts

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Ursula’s review of Haunted Sanctuary by Moira Rogers

TITLE: Haunted Sanctuary
AUTHOR: Moira Rogers
PUBLICATION DATE: 01-22-13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
The shadows of her past could destroy their future.

Green Pines, Book 1

Eden Green can’t remember a time she didn’t believe in monsters—her cousin was born one. Her family’s dark past casts a long shadow, making it hard to make friends and harder to commit to a lover. She lives a quiet life in small-town Clover, Tennessee, but she’s always waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Tired of the city packs’ corruption, yet too alpha to be a subordinate in a sanctuary town, Jay Ancheta satisfies his need to protect by serving as Clover’s Chief of Police. As much as he’s drawn to Eden, he can’t offer forever to a woman who doesn’t know what he is—or trust himself to let her go after one taste.

When Eden’s cousin and his battered pack stagger into town, their tormentors hard on their heels, Eden is bitten in the chaos. Now Jay not only has a traumatized pack to deal with, but a newly turned wolf with enough hungry alpha power to consume them both.

With their combined strength, they can create a new sanctuary—if their passion can survive the ghosts of the Green family’s legacy.

REVIEW:

OK, I have a confession. This was my first Moira Rogers book. I swear, I haven’t been hiding under a rock! I have heard of her, err them. I’ve just never had the occasion to read a book by Ms. Rogers. Wow, am I sorry I haven’t. This book was an intense introduction into Ms. Roger’s vision of werewolf shifters and witches. It was explosive from the very start and never stopped. I have found that I enjoy my paranormal books with a little (or a lot) of realistic violence. It started with a bang and I just devoured it. Not only was it a rollercoaster ride of suspense, but there was emotion and angst. I am seriously worried about Eden’s cousin. I just wanted to hold him and make everything ok. Zach is seriously damaged and I was so worried for him.

That aside, there was great action and this was a super beginning to a terrific new series. The relationship between Eden and Jay is combustible. The intense chemistry between them leapt off the page. Add to that the conflict of starting a Sanctuary and you have a fantastic book that I couldn’t put down. With werewolves and witches, the possibilities for the Green Pines series are endless. I can’t wait to see what happens next in this series. And I am definitely going back and getting her other books!

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

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Ursula’s review of Copy That by HelenKay Dimon

TITLE: Copy That
AUTHOR: HelenKay Dimon
PUBLICATION DATE: 08-07-12
ORDER LINKS:  Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Returning from his latest Border Patrol assignment, Jeremy Hill seeks sanctuary in his twin brother’s home. The last thing he expects to find is an armed man already inside, or Meredith Samms, a gorgeous tenant caught in the crossfire. Then he discovers that the gunman’s attack is meant for his twin brother, who is nowhere in sight, and Jeremy must take matters into his own hands. Searching for his brother while trying to protect this girl next door, Jeremy finds himself caught up in the danger he’d become all too familiar with. In his world, everyone’s a target and anyone can be a suspect, so Jeremy has no room for emotions. But what Meredith stirs within him may complicate this unexpected mission to the point of no return….

REVIEW:

This is the first Harlequin Intrigue book I have read in a long time. Now I remember why I loved them so much!  This book was explosive from the beginning and was a non-stop ride for the whole book. I really enjoy my romances with a healthy dose of mystery, suspense and intrigue. This book had a super heaping helping of it. Once I started this book I couldn’t put it down. I admit to being fooled by some of the false paths laid to the true bad guy. I love when a book can do that to me. Sometimes they are just too darn predictable, but not this book. There was also a really cool twin twist and the secondary romance between the other brother was interesting too. The twist at the end of the book was a great trick that I am not going to tell you about because I don’t want to ruin the book. For goodness sake, go out and buy this book. It was that freaking good! This was my very first book by Ms. Dimon. I am now looking for more of her awesome books to read!

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

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Ursula’s review of Inside Bet by Katie Porter

TITLE: Inside Bet
AUTHOR: Katie Porter
PUBLICATION DATE:   01/01/12
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
As assistant director in an accounting firm, Heather Morris is at the top of her game. Her straight-laced colleagues wouldn’t believe the secrets she hides: her wild teenage past, work-of-art tattoo and nipple ring.

Her orderly life veers off course when she’s approached at a wine tasting by an arrogant pretty boy with a dirty mind and a hardcore dangerous profession. She finds herself tempted to step outside her respectable façade for some well-deserved excitement.

Captain Jon “Tin Tin” Carlisle knows women. Loves women. One glimpse of the nipple ring under Heather’s conservative blazer lights up all his instincts. He’s stumbled upon a rare treasure: an exotic beauty with a sexy laugh and a taste for dares.

After a red-hot hour of roulette, their simmering attraction bursts into an exploration of mutual passion that tests even Jon’s erotic limits. Soon he craves something he’s never desired before. More. But for Heather, more means trusting, and trusting leads to trouble.

Now Jon must decide if the best sex of his life is worth chancing his heart on a woman who shields hers so well.

Warning: Contains hot power play featuring a fighter pilot who comes from old money but knows all about bringing the dirty. Also: a nipple ring, sex on the hood of a hella sweet sportscar, and one teensy, tiny, wickedly naughty fluid exchange.

REVIEW:
I really enjoyed this book. It is part of a series, however I hadn’t read the book before this one.  I didn’t feel like I was missing out and the author really did a good job of kind of filling us in on what had gone before.  This was a sexy, hot book that had a good conflict and resolution.  I really just wanted to kick the hero in the head so many times. The heroine too. They were both stubborn and stuck in their way. This book showed how sometimes you just have to throw caution to the wind and trust someone once in awhile. It isn’t always an easy road and the rocky moments made for some good reading.
There were also many secondary characters that we were introduced to. It really added to the depth of the book and now I find myself wanting to go back and read the first one and the one that will come after this one. Ms. Dimon did a wonderful job of sucking me into her world and I will be happy to revisit it again in the future.

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

4 Hearts
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Ursula’s review of The Virgin’s Revenge by Dee Tenorio

TITLE: The Virgin’s Revenge
AUTHOR: Dee Tenorio
PUBLICATION DATE:   7-3-12
ORDER LINKS:  Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Amanda Jackman’s love life is the stuff dreams are made of…which is fitting, because it’s all in her head. Thanks to six oversized, overbearing brothers who treat her like the family jewel, she’s lived in a padded little box.

Determined to get a life before she needs a padded little cell, she sets out to throw off the yoke and live on her own terms. Except she seriously underestimates the lengths to which her brothers will go to keep her safe and sound.

Cole Engstrom’s life might just be at an end. Cornered by all six of the massive Jackmans—men he normally considers his friends—he learns he’s their choice to marry their sister…or else. Make that first choice, but not the last.

Rather than watch Amanda’s brothers club their way through potential mates, Cole figures it’s best to just play along for a while and buy her some time to find a man of her own. It’s a good plan. Until Amanda figures it out—and decides he’s the one to relieve her of her “sheltered little virgin” status. One seduction at a time…

Warning: This sexy romp of a book contains a virgin, a man and a plan. Game. On.

REVIEW:

Anytime there is a story about overbearing brothers trying to control little sister’s life, I am there!  This is one of my favorite romance tropes of all time.  And in this book, Ms. Tenorio does a fine job of executing it.  Poor put upon Amanda knows what her brothers are up to and decides to get a little of her own back and rid herself of her pesky virginity. This book is a fun read with twisted plots, each person trying to play their own game and not being totally honest.

Still there is a satisfying getting to know each other for the hero and heroine. Even though they are childhood friends, the author details them getting to know each other in a romantic capacity. What follows is a resolution to unrequited love. Also, the author is adept at detailing the family dynamics and finally Amanda convinces her brothers it is time to live her own life.  It isn’t an easy thing and there are some gut wrenching emotions but the ending is perfect.

If you would like to read a fun romance, heavy in the family dynamics, I recommend this book.

4 Hearts
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Ursula’s review of Bound Temptations by Shiloh Walker

TITLE: Bound Temptations
AUTHOR: Shiloh Walker
PUBLICATION DATE:   05/01/12
ORDER LINKS:  Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
TEMPT ME
She’s a temptation he can’t resist…

Roxanne ‘Rocki’ Monroe’s life is full of secrets and hidden heartaches. Cole Stanton would love to heal her pain and chase away the ghosts of her past, but she’s just a complication he doesn’t have room for in his life.

Or so he thinks.

It doesn’t take Cole long to realize he’s more than willing to let temptation get the best of him, more than happy to deal with complications if that’s what it takes to get her.

What he has and what he needs are two different things…and what he needs is Rocki.

BEG ME
Beg me…there had been a time when those words made her burn with desire. But now, there was only fear.

Once, Tania Sinclair’s life was almost perfect…But a couple of tragedies later, she’s barely holding it together. A car accident took away her husband, and an attack from somebody she should have been able to trust has shaken not only her confidence, but it’s also stripped away her fantasies and even made it painful to look back on her memories of her husband without fear.

Two years after her attack, Tania is determined to take her life back and the first step is taking back herself…her fantasies, her dreams, her memories. There’s only one person she can trust to do it, too. One person she wants enough…Drake Bennett, her husband’s best friend.

Warning: This book involves light bondage play, rape fantasy & role-playing. The acts between the hero & heroine are consensual, but they may not be ideal for all readers…

REVIEW:
This is a print book that combines two of Shiloh Walker’s E-books.

In the first book, Tempt Me, we have a strong female character who is a joy to read! She has had heartache and loss yet she comes out all the stronger for it. There is a slight element of intrigue and suspense that keeps the pace moving briskly. I really wanted to slap the female protagonist! Ms. walker did a fantastic job of writing a person to hate. the only thing that bugged me about this story was the hero being engaged and then going right for Rocki. I know it is explained but it felt a little rushed for me. However, I got over it and was able to enjoy the rest of the story.

In the second one, Beg Me, we have a slightly controversial story.  The author clearly states that the subject might not be ideal for all readers. I gave it careful thought and decided that it would not bug me. It was very well written.  The subject of rape fantasy is a huge hot button topic for a lot of people. I, personally, enjoyed the story in the spirit it was written. And the hero and heroine’s interactions were hot.  It was a very thought provoking and heart wrenching story.  With the added elements of intrigue and suspense I was hooked.

Of the two, I enjoyed Beg Me the most, but both are wonderful stories and this book is definitely worth a look.

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

4 Hearts
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Ursula’s review of Spinning Gold by Vivi Andrews

TITLE: Spinning Gold
AUTHOR: Vivi Andrews
PUBLICATION DATE: 06/18/12
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:

Rumpelstiltskin as you’ve never seen it before. In this fairy tale, no princes need apply.

Juliana Ravel will do anything to save her innocent brother from the executioner, but what the supposedly charming prince demands is impossible. Spinning straw into gold? He might as well ask her to fly. Her only hope is a family heirloom – a gold medallion rumored to be the magic prison of one of the fabled golden fae.

Trapped inside the medallion for hundreds of years, Rue isn’t fool enough to trust Juliana, but he can’t help but be tempted by the feisty beauty. Even though she is the spitting image of the witch who betrayed and imprisoned him, Rue agrees to help her. For a price.

Entranced by the exotic, golden-skinned man, Juliana agrees to his terms, believing her worries are at an end. But when the tyrannical prince finds her surrounded by riches, he isn’t about to let her walk away – instead holding her prisoner within the corrupt court. Juliana’s only freedom is her nights with Rue, where their negotiations turn to seduction, and together they construct a desperate plot to escape a life where they must keep spinning gold… or die

REVIEW:
A very romantic tale on the classic: Rumplestiltskin.  It was set in medieval times, contained magic, fae and had hot sex.  There was a villain, a brother in peril and a handsome prince. Sounds like the stuff dreamy stories are made of.  I just wasn’t swept away.  The whole evil prince/evil advisor plot was a little convoluted. So was the whole captured/enslaved fae part for that matter. I enjoyed the premise of a girl willing to do anything it took to save her brother. The realization that she was totally naive and that she had some growing up to do was the best part of the book. Oh and the happy ending. Because I am a sucker for those.

The premise for the story was great. The characters were the stuff that fairytales are made of. The writing was solid. And the plot was classic. But it just didn’t carry me off into the fantasy. I think a lot of people will really enjoy this book. It just wasn’t for me.

Disclaimer:
The following review is my opinion and not a paid review. I received this book free as part of a blog contest.

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Ursula’s review of Sharing Hailey by Samantha Ann King

TITLE: Sharing Hailey
AUTHOR: Samantha Ann King
PUBLICATION DATE: 7/09/12
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:

Hailey Anderson’s deep, dark secret? She’s been madly in lust with her overprotective brother’s two best friends for years. Gorgeous woodworking artist Mark Allen and sexy doctor Tony Adamo have no idea they star in her fantasies every night.

After a nasty breakup with her abusive boyfriend, Hailey’s looking for a little distance. Headed for a two-week Hawaiian vacation with her brother and his hot friends, Hailey can’t wait to feast her eyes on Mark’s and Tony’s rock-hard, ocean-slick bodies. Even if she can’t touch.

But instead of treating her like their little sister, Mark and Tony have a surprising proposition: a monogamous ménage à trois. The three of them–and no one else. Both men want Hailey and have agreed to share her. The red-hot reality is even better than the forbidden fantasy. Until Hailey’s ex threatens their newfound happiness…

REVIEW:

I really enjoyed reading this book. The characters were ones I could easily relate to.  I think everyone would love to have a brother with two friends as hot as these guys. Taking the journey with Hailey, Tony, and Mark as they navigated the relationship felt real.  The author took a fiction situation and made it feel like it could really happen.  I don’t want to give too much away but there was a specific instance where the author created a situation and the characters reactions were spot on. It makes a big difference to the reader’s enjoyment that the author treated this as a real life relationship. In many menage books it is all fairy tales and romance and they are wonderful to read, but you are always left feeling, “That would never happen.”  I guess what I am trying to say is she gave us the fairy tale while making us believe it could happen to us.

What really stood out for me was the way the author dealt with the abusive relationship.  There was no glossing over and no miracle cure. It was a bad situation that really added depth to the story. It also added a nice touch of drama and intrigue that took the story up a level. This is a fantastic debut for the author that insured I will be looking for more books from her in the future. If you are looking for something new to try, this is the book for you.

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

4 Hearts

 

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Ursula’s review of The Theory Of Attraction by Delphine Dryden

The Theory of Attraction
AUTHOR: Delphine Dryden
PUBLICATION DATE: 07/09/12
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:

Camilla can set her watch by her hunky rocket-scientist neighbor who jogs past her window each day. She relishes each glimpse of his shirtless abs, and is dying to see more. But it’s hard to connect with a man who doesn’t seem to know she exists…

Ivan feels at home in the lab, not in social situations. When he finally approaches his attractive neighbor, it’s not for a date—he wants tutoring in how to behave at an important fundraiser. Ivan doesn’t expect the chemistry between them to be quite so explosive, and is surprised when Cami actually accepts his proposal to embark on a series of “lessons.”

Cami soon discovers Ivan’s schedule isn’t the only thing he likes to be strict about—he needs to be charge in the bedroom as well. She’s shocked at how much she comes to enjoy her submissive side, but wonders if a real relationship is in the equation…

REVIEW:

Ok let me get this out of the way:

Do you watch Big Bang Theory? Because all through this book I had the feeling I was reading a hot, dominant version of Sheldon Cooper. BAZINGA! I tried, TRIED to see Ivan, but all I could picture was a sexy Sheldon type. I loved it. If you don’t watch Big Bang Theory, then you won’t get it. I am afraid I may spend this review comparing Ivan to Sheldon. I am going to try really hard not to, but in my mind they are intertwined. And not only the character of Ivan. The whole set up. A bunch of slightly misfit people, living in a complex, all hanging out together. To me it just screamed…well, you get the point. Sorry.

This story made me laugh and cringe all at the same time. Ivan is so clueless, yet extremely dominant. He is clueless how to relate to “real” people and has no clue how to be tactful. He is so smart he thinks differently, acts differently and relates differently. I was tickled watching how Ivan saw things and seeing Cami teach him how he should see things. The little intricacies of how the normal person relates to someone are humorous when viewed through his eyes. It is not something I really think about. I like to think I am pretty good at relating to people. I have a bad habit of not letting people finish sentences, kind of like Ivan. Only in my case it’s because I get a thought and I don’t want to lose it. (I am ditzy like that)

I guess I have become distracted. (Like I said, ditzy) I really enjoyed reading this book. The relationship was not like the usual and it was fun to read. I just wanted to shake Ivan when he couldn’t be clear on what he wanted. I was upset at the thought that after everything, they might not work out. I am super glad there was a HEA! I definitely recommend this book. Especially if you are a Big Bang Theory fan. Sorry. Couldn’t resist.

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

4 Hearts
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Ursula’s review of Rules Of Negotiation by Inara Scott

Rules of Negotiation
AUTHOR: Inara Scott
PUBLICATION DATE:   02/14/2012
ORDER LINKS:  Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
He let her make the rules…

NYC’s most eligible bachelor, Brit Bencher, is also known as The Slayer for his reputation in the boardroom…and the bedroom. And he’ll do anything to take care of his family, even seduce high-powered corporate attorney Tori Anderson in the hopes of getting her to reveal confidential information about one of her clients. But for the first time in his life, he finds he’s falling for a woman.

…and then he started to break them.

After juggling the demands of her career and the stress of caring for her ailing mother, Tori Anderson doesn’t have time for relationships—but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t want to feel like a woman. When Brit offers a no-strings attached fling, it sounds like exactly what she needs. But what will she do when Brit decides he won’t take “one night stand” for an answer? When Tori uncovers his lies, will he lose his chance with her forever?

REVIEW:
Right from the beginning it is clear that Brit has an ulterior motive, but I found it hard to care.  His character was so well written that even when he is being an ass, you like him.  It is clear that he is torn from the get go. He sets out to use Tori as a contact to obtain something for his beloved sister, but can’t help his own attraction to her. Soon he forgets why he started the whole thing and mostly just goes with it.  Of course that comes back to bite him in the aforementioned ass.

Tori is a driven woman with no room in her life for anything outside of work and making sure her mother is taken care of.  Despite her better judgement she is sucked into a sort of relationship with Brit as long as it is on her terms.  Driven by demons from her past, she is determined that she can indulge in this fling with no strings or repercussions.

Both of these characters have had less than ideal childhoods and it has caused them to deal with relationships in a warped way.  Both of them want to avoid a serious one and neither of them is willing to put anything but their family first. This makes for a less than ideal beginning to the relationship.  Brit sees the light and the error of his ways far sooner than Tori does. He comes to the conclusion that he has to stop living his life for his family and tries to get Tori do the same so they can be together. This makes for plenty of drama and angst that had me shedding a few tears.  I love it when a book makes me “feel”

Complete with the meddling family and an overly familiar assistant, this book had plenty of laughs to go along with the emotion.  I definitely recommend this book.

4 Hearts