Natasha reviews Immortal by J.R. Ward

immortalTITLE: Immortal
SERIES #: Fallen Angels #6
CHARACTERS: Jim, Sissy, Eddie, Adrian & Devina
AUTHOR: J.R. Ward
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/7/14
ORDER LINKS:Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
From J.R. Ward, the #1 New York Times bestselling author who has kept readers on the edge of their seats with her phenomenal Fallen Angels novels, comes one of the most heart-stirring and eagerly anticipated events in that acclaimed series.

This is a world where sin and salvation collide. This is a world where a cynical fallen angel struggles with the seven deadly sins and seven chosen souls. With the spellbinding Immortal, the riveting series that “changed the face of paranormal romance” comes to an epic close as mankind’s reluctant savior struggles with his greatest challenge yet…

REVIEW:
This is the final installment in the J.R. Ward Fallen Angel series. We’ve followed Jim for six books now in his fight against the evil Devina for the souls of all of humanity. This has been an intense series. Jim is extremely frustrating throughout this series and there are times when you want to strangle him. However, in this book he’s finally made some progress. He’s still a super volatile macho man that has to overcome his evil side, but he’s much more clear-headed and sane. Sissy was a big reason for this. I had my doubts about Sissy’s importance throughout this series, but I know understand why she was introduced as such a monumental character. There were times I literally cried during this book (Adrian & Eddie, Nigel & Colin). It was super emotional on many levels. The connections made through these characters were deep. I was very invested in all of their futures. There are many time when a series closes out and many followers are left disappointed. Though this series started off slow and rough for me, it definitely ended on a high note. I’m very pleased with the series closure and am very happy I stuck through the entire series.

Disclaimer:
I purchased a copy of this book on my own. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

4 Hearts
4 Hearts

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Beauty and the Biker by Beth Ciotta

Enter to Win
A Kelly Rae Roberts
Inspirational Cuff Bracelet
 

A new contemporary series—Impossible Dream—celebrating hope, love, and the magic of the human spirit!

Five long-time girlfriends—known as The Inseparables—find themselves in their thirties and battling disillusion. Tangled up in real-life troubles and stifled aspirations, they’re ready to ditch their deepest desires .. until they stumble upon the peculiar matchmaking company, “Impossible Dream,” where they each find the rare opportunity to make seemingly impossible dreams come true.

A series of modern-day fairytales beginning with . . . Beauty & the Biker

PRINCE CHARMING IS OUT THERE. SOMEWHERE.

Miracles happen every day. Even in Nowhere, Nebraska. That’s Bella Mooney’s philosophy and she’s sticking to it! A children’s librarian who writes fairy tales on the side, Bella has earned the reputation of fanciful Pollyanna. No surprise that she applied for her “ideal man” via ImpossibleDream.com, an Internet company designed to make dreams come true. However, even whimsical Bella has real-life issues, forcing her to take drastic actions in order to spin her dad’s life (and in turn her own) for the better. As fate draws her into the troubling world of her new neighbor—a cynical biker with a scarred soul and checkered past—Bella finds herself falling for the most unlikely man, twisting her perceptions of true love and testing her faith in dreams.

FATE LANDED HIM IN NOWHERE. 

Expect nothing. Anticipate the worst. As a detective with the Chicago Police Department, Joe Savage witnessed heinous crimes and acts of cruelty on a daily basis, obliterating his faith in humanity. When a personal vendetta cost him his job and a quirky inheritance offered escape, Joe packed it in and steered his Harley toward a small town bordering Tornado Alley and the Twilight Zone. Where better to lose himself than Nowhere? Resigned to a dark and lonely existence, Joe’s life is suddenly shoved into the sunshine when his eccentric neighbor offers him a chance he can’t refuse, especially after her kiss of hope rekindles his dead heart. Inspired and challenged by Bella’s infectious optimism, Joe dares to make the impossible come true.

 
Buy Now
Excerpt-Banner
“Here’s the deal,” Bella said, bursting with anticipation. Is he or is he not a magical kisser? Because if he was, that was her sign. “Carson—that’s my ex, except he hasn’t accepted that fact—thinks he’s perfect for me.”
“What do you think?”
She didn’t want to detail her history with Carson. Admitting the reasons behind her poor judgment and bemoaning his manipulative pursuit were too personal. She’d glossed over the emotional aspects with her closest friends. Why in God’s name would she share them with a stranger?
Oddly enough, she didn’t feel the same when it came to citing their less than magical physical relations. Which only affirmed how impersonal those relations were. Her cheeks burned, but the words flowed.
“Carson doesn’t inspire earthquakes and fireworks, if you catch my drift. Then again no one ever has. Not that there’ve been that many,” she added. “I need to know it’s not me. That I’m not, I don’t know, broken somehow.  That I’m not expecting too much. That there’s…hope. Don’t get a swelled head or any kinky thoughts, but I think you’re gorgeous—in a menacing kind of way—and fascinating. Like a tortured hero in a gothic novel. You make my insides squishy. That’s a first. In real life anyway—as opposed to going all soft for a fictional guy in film or literature. If you can’t shake my world then, well…maybe I should settle for Carson.”
“Are you done?”
Blushing profusely, Bella shied away. So much for derring-do.
Savage caught her elbow and pulled her close. “Don’t get a swelled head or any kinky ideas, but I think you’re beautiful—in an irritating angelic way.” He stroked her cheek then threaded his hands through her hair. “How old are you anyway?”
“Twenty-nine.”
“You seem younger.”
“How old are you?” she asked.
“Thirty-five.”
“You seem older.”
His mouth crooked, implying a sense of humor. Ideal quality #1. “Do you want the earth to tilt?” he asked. “Or spin?”
It was the kind of arrogance Carson flaunted every day. Only Bella suspected Savage would make good on his offer. “You can do that?”
He held her gaze, weaving a seductive spell with spine-tingling silence.
“Spin, please,” she managed before the universe shimmied and glittered.
His embrace was tender yet possessive. His mouth soft and teasing then hard and demanding.  This kiss… This. Kiss. Was overwhelming. All consuming. It buzzed through her body, head to toe, heart to soul.
Lost.
In a magical kiss.
Bewitched.
Forever and always.
She curled her fingers into his shoulders, his hair. Holding tight as the world spun off its axis.

She responded to his touch, his heat, his need.

She pressed against his body. Wanting more. Needing more.

His desire was evident and pushed Bella over the edge. She imploded, trembling with an aftermath of erotic sensations.
Orgasmic nirvana.
Compliments of a kiss.
Savage’s kiss.
“You’re not broken.”
His words cut through her sensual haze. Bella grappled for reality and balance. Heat suffused her cheeks as she bolstered her noodly limbs and met his intoxicating gaze. Assaulted by physical yearning and a riot of emotions, she could scarcely breathe. “Good. Great. Thank you.”
She backed out of his lethal embrace, willed dignity, and channeled the Inseparables. Any one of her friends was worldlier than her. Try as she might Bella couldn’t manage casual. Not when her heart and head pounded with a united thought.
He’s the one.
After months of sadness and unrest, in the midst of multiple personal trials, something good was happening. Unexpected and magical and charmingly improbable.
Savage dragged his hands over his face, through his hair. He looked sinfully handsome, dark and dangerous, and absolutely miserable.
Probably because her heart was in her eyes.
“I’ll taint your world,” he said.

“I’ll take my chances.”

 
 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

Storytelling comes naturally to award-winning author Beth Ciotta. Dubbed “fun and sexy” by Publisher’s Weekly, Beth specializes in writing Romantic Comedy with a Twist of Suspense and is published in contemporary, historical, steampunk, and paranormal romantic fiction.

Beth lives in NJ with her husband, two zany dogs, and a crazy cat. A veteran professional performer, Beth now pours her artistic passion into her writing. To learn more about her colorful life, visit her website at www.bethciotta.com

Find Her Here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

 

Jennifer’s Review of Beauty and the Biker
Review (4.25 Stars):  This is the first book in a new series by Beth Ciotta and I think that this will be one that shouldn’t be missed. Bella Mooney is a children’s librarian who is currently disillusioned with her life.  She moved home to help her grieving father after her mother died and has been trying to help her father deal with their loss.  She recently broke up with her “wonderful” boyfriend, Carson, because the relationship was going nowhere and she wants to experience the kind of love that her parents had.  Joe Savage has moved to town to leave his past behind and deal with the property that was left to him by a family member.  He is trying desperately to forget the dark things he had to do for his job and Bella seems to be the only bright spot in his painful dark existence.  Maybe the two together can finally make their dreams come true spending time with another.

 

I really liked Bella in this story.  She was very sweet, loving and kind and wanted more out her life than just settling for anyone.  She wanted to be a children’s writer and just needed to find someone who could illustrate her book so she could sell her idea.  I loved that she still had hope and took the opportunity to put down everything that she ever wanted when she posted on the website, Impossible Dream.  She wanted a love like her parents and even though Joe seemed like a jerk, she still made an effort to befriend him and offered to help him clean up his property.

 

Joe didn’t seem like a very nice guy in the beginning of this book but I saw that all he wanted was peace and quiet to deal with the demons that were haunting him.  I was glad to see that he had a softer side when he was with Bella and was someone that could make all her dreams come true.  She was the key to his future, he just had to trust his instincts and take a chance on this beautiful woman in front of him.

 

Beauty and Biker is a lovely small-town romance that makes you believe that even the most impossible dreams can come true. I loved Bella and Joe together and I think that were definitely right for one another.  I also loved all her friends and can’t wait to learn more about them in future books because they all need to find their own happy endings.

Kissin’ the week of Oct 27th-Nov 1st Goodbye

10.27.14

Natasha reviews Gone To Her Grave by Melinda Leigh

Kimberly reviews Unleashed by Rachel Lacey

Blog Tour & Giveaway: His Road Home by Anna Richland

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Silent Night by C.J. Kyle

10.28.14

Kelly reviews Burn For Me by Ilona Andrews

Kimberly reviews Flaming Hot by Lynn LaFleur

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Christmas at Cupcake Cafe by Jenny Colgan

10.29.14

Winter Romance Wednesday! Kimberly reviews Snow Angel Cove by RaeAnne Thayne

Winter Romance Wednesday! Kelly & Kimberly review Yours For Christmas by Susan Mallery

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Lucky Harbor Series by Jill Shalvis

10.30.14

Natasha reviews Penumbra by Keri Arthur

Kimberly reviews Tis The Season by Robyn Carr

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Black Raven’s Lady by Kathleen Harrington

10.31.14

Kelly reviews Alien Collective by Gini Koch

Kelly reviews Accidentally Dead by Dakota Cassidy

Happy Halloween from Books-n-Kisses.com

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Made for You by Lauren Layne

11.01.14

SINsational Saturday Series

Kelly reviews Accidentally Dead by Dakota Cassidy

accidently deadTITLE: Accidentally Dead
SERIES #: Accidentals #2
CHARACTERS: Greg Statleon & Nina Blackman
AUTHOR: Dakota Cassidy
NARRATOR: Meredith Mitchell
PUBLICATION DATE: July 1, 2008 (Audio: May, 13, 2014)
RUN TIME: 10 Hour & 35 Minutes
ORDER LINKS:Amazon| B&N | Audible

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
A vampire puts the bite on a dental assistant.

It’s a lousy first day on the job for Nina Blackman when a patient, loopy from the anesthesia, bites her. At least he was cute. But for real drama she can’t beat the next evening. Nina wakes up with a set of razor-sharp fangs, bionic vision, supersonic hearing, and a taste for blood. But there’s a good explanation: It’s her patient, Long Island vampire Greg Statleon. Actually they’re perfect for each other if Nina’s willing to commit to one man for eternity.

REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts Nina Blackman is no stranger to the paranormal. Not after the wild ride she went on with her friend Marty. But waking up as a vampire is too much for Nina. She is determined to find a way to become human again. Now to find the vampire who turned her.

This was another great story from Ms. Cassidy. I enjoyed Nina’s crazy story. I will say that I didn’t care much for Nina and her smart mouth in The Accidental Werewolf (bk 1). But as Accidentally Dead went on I really grew to like Nina. There is a whole lot more to Nina then just her tough guy act and her smart-ass mouth. And Greg!! Greg is the perfect solution for Nina. Beyond perfect! I love their fights and make ups. I love that Nina always has one more questions. I can’t wait to see these two in future books.

I am looking forward to book 3 Wanda really needs a little HEA!!

I listened to this book on audio. Ms. Mitchell did a great job again bring the characters to life again. I often wonder what narrators think when they are narrating books. I would guess that Ms. Mitchell had a great time being Nina and all her foul mouth and easily angered persona.

Disclaimer:
I purchased this book from Audible and this review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

4 Hearts
4 Hearts

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Made For You by Lauren Layne

Made-for-You-Lauren-Layne

Cover_MADEFORYOU

When the Wrong Guy is Oh-So-Right

Will Thatcher is exactly the type of sexy playboy good girls like Brynn have always avoided. And yet there was still something about him she just couldn’t resist. When Will moved across the country three years ago, Brynn vowed it was time to put him behind her. She never thought Will might have other plans . . .

Back in town, Will intends to get what he’s always wanted-gorgeous, unforgettable Brynn. For years, he tormented the untouchable ice princess in a desperate bid for her attention. Now he has a new plan, and he’ll do anything to rewrite their stormy past.
This time, he’s out to show Brynn that the imperfect man might be the best mistake of her life . .

Amazon/B&N

Excerpt-Banner

Will knew exactly the moment she’d seen him. He felt it like a shock to the balls, and he wanted a shot of whisky. Now.

It had taken a full fifty-seven minutes since he’d walked into the door until her ice blue eyes had locked on him, and that was including the ridiculous amount of time she’d spent in the bathroom.

She made him wait another twenty minutes before seeking him out.

But what was an extra seventy-seven minutes when you’d already waited a lifetime?

Will watched her approach, her expression schooled into an expression of polite indifference. She stopped a several inches in front of him, and only the slight narrowing of gray-blue eyes giving any indication that she wanted him dead. Which of course, she did.

“William.”

“Brynn,” he said, matching her prim tone.

He felt a little jolt of disappointment at her vapid smile. It was the same courteous, reveal-nothing expression she’d given everyone else in the room. He’d been kind of hoping for that special brand of bitchy that she’d always reserved just for him.

“You’re looking a little wider around the hips,” he said with an insulting glance up and down. She hadn’t, but the thought that she’d gained an ounce would keep her up at night.

Her smile slipped for a second, and for a moment he realized if he’d struck a nerve. Normally he wouldn’t dare touch the subject of a women’s weight. He wasn’t a total ass.

But Brynn had had the same perfectly slim figure as long as he’d known her — she wouldn’t tolerate anything else. Her physical appearance was flawless.

Her personality, however…

“And you’re looking…manwhorish,” she said with the usual venom.

Ah. There the old Brynn. He nearly smiled. “So. Nice party,” he said blandly.

“Yes, it was sweet of Sophie to put it together.”

“Mm hmm,” he said, taking a sip of his red wine. “And exactly how intense was the urge to strangle her when you learned that she’d planned a surprise party instead of the usual boring birthday dinner with your family?”

This time the smile faded all together. “Don’t. Don’t do that thing.”

“What thing?”

“That thing where you make it a point of thinking you know me better than anyone else.”

Don’t I? He stifled the thought. For now.

madeforyou-teaser2

About the Author:

Lauren

Lauren Layne used to work in e-commerce. She wore cute shoes and big-girl clothes like an adult.

Then she was like, nope, changed into her pajamas and started writing romance novels.

She believes in sarcasm, weekday happy hours, and happily ever after.

Website/Twitter/Facebook

 

Jennifer’s Review of Made For You

Review (4.5 Stars): Made For You was such a fun and romantic read that I know this book will have readers laughing out loud.  I loved Brynn and Will together as a couple and I enjoyed all the mischievous things that Will did to get Brynn’s attention.  Brynn always considered Will to be a thorn in her side and he seemed to do everything that he could to get on her nerves.  When he came back to Seattle, Brynn knew she was in trouble because his goal in life has always been to make her life miserable.  Little did Brynn know was that Will wasn’t there to torment her but to finally admit that she had always been “the one” for him and this time he wasn’t leaving until he won her heart.

Brynn was so prim and proper, trying to keep her life organized by always making detailed lists to keep her focused.  She had a difficult childhood and by keeping herself so disciplined, she prevented herself from falling back into old habits that had plagued her when she was younger.  She needed someone like Will in her life to remind her that life was about living and being spontaneous, instead of having every inch of her life planned out.  Will was the exact opposite of Brynn, a sexy easy-going guy, that just did things by the seat of his pants.  He knew he made a mistake with Brynn a long time ago and now it was time to make things right, if Brynn didn’t kill him first.

I loved Made For You and I can’t tell you how many times the scenes with Brynn and Will had me laughing out loud.  Ms. Layne has written such an entertaining and irresistible romance with Made For You that I’m now a fan for life.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Kelly reviews Alien Collective by Gini Koch

alien collectiveTITLE: Alien Collective
SERIES #: Katherine “Kitty” Katt #9
CHARACTERS: Kitty, Jeff and the whole AC Crew
AUTHOR: Gini Koch
PUBLICATION DATE: May 6, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Despite not having run for office, nor wanting to remain in office, Representative Jeff Martini is being wooed as the vice presidential running mate for a charismatic senator who seems likely to win the campaign. While the Diplomatic Corps has to deal with the pressures of a political campaign sure to uncover secrets they don’t want shared with the world, Ambassador Kitty Katt-Martini has other worries—handling the reemergence of her most potent nemesis, thought dead and buried

REVIEW:
I am always amazed about the amount of stuff going on in Ms. Koch’s books. It is kind of like looking through a stain glass window. You can kind of see what is outside, yet you are looking through many panels of glass and each is showing you a different image. The question should be is what you are seeing real? Or is your image distorted?

That all being said. In Alien Collective we find Kitty, Jeff, little Jamie-Kat and the whole A-C crew with their back against the wall again. This time it seems to be Jeff who is in the crosshairs. But the questions really is who is the real enemy and who can the A-C’s really trust? As always Kitty kicks some major. But it never hurts to have a little help from your friends. Thank goodness Kitty has some amazing friends.

If you have not started this series I believe you have to read this series in order There is so much that has happened to date that you would be a little lost. If you are a fan of Kitty’s series I think that you will enjoy Alien Collective.

I am looking forward to the next book in this series even if reading the blurb gives me a cause of anxiety. I will have to trust that the keeper of words knows what she is doing.

Disclaimer:
I purchased this book and this review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

4 Hearts
4 Hearts

Kimberly reviews Tis The Season by Robyn Carr

tis the seasonTITLE: Tis The Season
SERIES #: Virgin River #8 & #12
CHARACTERS: Varies
AUTHOR: Robyn Carr
PUBLICATION DATE: 01/01/14
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Together for the first time in one volume, two classic holiday stories—plus a bonus novella!—from #1 New York Times bestselling author Robyn Carr

‘Tis the season for family, friendship and the thrill of a holiday romance…

Under the Christmas Tree

With snow falling over the redwood forests, secluded Virgin River is the ideal place to spend the holidays. Each year, the close-knit community gathers in the town square to decorate and light a massive tree. Carols are sung, hot chocolate is shared—and a surprise left under the Christmas tree is about to bring two special people together!

Midnight Confessions

Holiday kisses don’t end with Christmas—there’s still the New Year’s Eve party at Jack’s Bar to attend. Locals and newcomers alike find themselves eager for that special countdown…and that midnight kiss.

So join us in Virgin River this year, where Robyn Carr’s trademark humor, warmth and sincerity will have you celebrating the festive season in your favorite mountain town.the festive season in your favorite mountain town.

REVIEW:
This is two stories in one. Series #8 and 12. I have only read one other book from this series but have read other books by Carr. I just couldn’t get into these books. The writing seems off to me. While sweet holiday stories they just didn’t ring true to me. Maybe it is because they were parts of the series that I haven’t read or maybe it was because the time it is written if years ago and has a different feel then how to writes now.

I never really felt the connection between any of the characters. Like I said it is a sweet holiday romance just not my cup of tea.

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

3hearts-68-77

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Black Raven’s Lady by Kathleen Harrington

Black-Raven's-Lady-Kathleen-Harrington

Cover(9)

This exciting conclusion to the popular Highland Lairds Trilogy features a runaway lass and the laird who will do anything to protect her.

Feisty Lady Raine Cameron has been surrounded her whole life by gossip claiming she is not her father’s daughter. Determined to find her true heritage, the dark-haired beauty boards the Black Raven under false pretenses in search of the man who she believes is her father, a man who is also a traitor to Scotland. Only the Black Raven himself stands in her way…

Laird Keir MacNeil has a reputation for being a ruthless and powerful ship captain. On a mission to apprehend Scotland’s most wanted traitor, he never expected to see Raine on his ship. Keir vows to keep Raine out of harm’s way and return her to her family untarnished. But as his lust for her grows, he must choose between honor and the woman he never expected to desire.

Amazon/B&N

Excerpt-Banner

PROLOGUE

June 1504

Archnacarry Manor
Western Highlands

 “Come away with me tomorrow, Nina,” the dark-haired man implored. “Meet me here at daybreak, and we’ll flee together. If you love me, dearest, come with me.”

His deep brown eyes filled with tenderness, he drew the beautiful lass close and kissed her tenderly on the forehead, then used the edge of the yellow-and-black tartan pinned to his shoulder to wipe away her tears.

“My father has received an offer of marriage for me from Laird Cameron,” Nina replied, her voice shaking with fright. “Should I run away with you, Torcall, my parents might never forgive me. Perhaps, if we pleaded with them together, they would understand how much in love we are.”

“I can’t wait any longer, dearest,” Torcall said. “The king has pronounced my father a traitor and with him all our clan. I must go and help defend our home and our lands.”

Nina clutched his strong hand in both of hers and brought his fingers to her lips. Her hair, a stunning red-gold, gleamed in the forest’s dappled sunlight. “Oh, Torcall, I do love you so.”

“Don’t be afraid, darling lass,” he told her, his voice ringing with the optimism of youth. “We’ll go to Steòrnabhagh. My father’s castle on the Isle of Lewis is impregnable. We’ll be married there. One day I’ll be chief of Clan MacMurchaidh, Nina, and I will give you all the things I so long to give.”

She smiled, her blue eyes filling once more with tears. “Your love is all I need, my dear, and all I want.”

Torcall hugged her close, then bent his head to place a gentle kiss on her lips. “You’ll meet me here tomorrow, then?” he asked. “You’ll run away with me?”

Nina nodded, a smile curving her lips. “Aye, I’ll flee with you, Torcall. I’ll meet you here, right by this tall pine tree, when the sun rises tomorrow.”
In the faint light of the following morning, the glen where the couple had stood seemed to wait in hushed anticipation of the coming dawn . . .

Her heart pounding, Raine awoke with a start and stared at the bed’s canopy above her head. She’d first had the dream when she was fourteen years old. The year after her father, Gideon Cameron, had been murdered. Raine knew it wasn’t an ordinary dream. ’Twas a vision of her mother and Raine’s natural father.

About the Author:

Kathleen Harrington

Kathleen Harrington, winner of the Colorado Romance Writers’ Award of Excellence, has touched the hearts of readers across the country with her sparkling tales of high adventure and unending love. Her historical romances have been finalists for Romance Writers of America’s RITA® Award, the Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice, Virginia Romance Writers’ HOLT Medallion, and the Phoenix Desert Rose Golden Quill. Her fabulous heroes have garnered the K.I.S.S. (Knight in Shining Silver) Award. She lives in Southern California.

Website/Twitter/Facebook

 

 

Jennifer’s Review of Black Raven’s Lady

Review (4 Stars): I have always loved sexy Highlanders and I understood the attraction that Raine had for Keir during the course of this book.  Raine is on a mission to learn more about her real father and the only person that can take her to learn the truth is Laird Keir MacNeil.  Under false pretenses, she sneaks aboard one of his ships and discovers that the man that Keir is after, just happens to be the same man she is looking for.  Hopefully, Raine can find out the truth but being in close quarters with Keir leads to an attraction that neither of them may be able to ignore.

Raine was a great heroine in this story because she was smart, feisty and no one was going to stop her from doing what she wants.  She was always attracted to Keir and he was always able to push her buttons.  They always seemed to butt heads with one another but that is what made them a great couple.  He was able to verbally spar with her and that helped to make this story more exciting.

Keir was the typical sexy alpha male who was used to being in charge of everything in his life.  Having Raine on his ship turned his life upside and I could tell that he couldn’t decide whether to kiss Raine or put her over his knee and spank her whenever she stirred up trouble.  Black Raven’s Lady was a sexy romance on the high seas that I’m sure will delight historical romance readers.  I do recommend reading the first two books in the series first because there was quite a bit of back story about Keir’s brothers that I would have liked to learn more about.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Natasha reviews Penumbra by Keri Arthur

penumbraTITLE: Penumbra
SERIES #: The Spook Squad #3
CHARACTERS: Sam & Gabriel
AUTHOR: Keri Arthur
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/28/14
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Agent Sam Ryan has had enough. She wants out, and she wants out now. She’s sick of putting up with Gabriel’s crappy attitude, sick of seeing nothing but paperwork and the inside off her small office. But most of all, she is sick of feeling lonely. It’s time to take control and get a life outside of work. But Stephan, the man in charge of the SIU, isn’t about to let her go easily. Offered the choice between guarding a clone and probable enemy of the country, or remaining stuck in her shoe box, Sam reluctantly accepts the former, even though she suspects Stephan is using her as bait to draw out the elusive and dangerous Sethanon. Gabriel is relieved to discover he’s finally shaken Sam as a partner, until he learns her new assignment is guarding Wetherton, the clone replacement of a government minister. Both he and Stephan know Wetherton could only have come from one place-Hopeworth. The military base has been involved in DNA experiments for decades and was more than likely the place where Sam was created. But there is a growing likelihood that the military base is also the home of Sethanon himself. Determined to protect her, Gabriel is quickly drawn into the mission. All too soon he discovers the connection between he and Sam is far deeper than anyone could ever have imagined. As the assignment begins to unravel around Sam and her past begins to reveal itself in her dreams, she fights to stay alive because the military wants their creation back. And the only person standing between her and them might well be the enemy of all mankind.

REVIEW: This was the book I’d been waiting for. Finally some answers for Sam about her past! I was very pleased that this book has finally given insight to some of the most burning questions we’ve had regarding Sam’s history and who she really is. This series has a ton of twists and turns as well is interlocking storylines with other events so the characters/bad guys are all really hard to keep straight from book to book. I am happy to report though, that we do get some fairly easy to understand explanations about Sam that will make many things make sense. Who is Joe Black? Will Gabriel ever quit being such a jerk and come to his senses? These are questions we finally get answers to! I know this series was originally set as a trilogy but Arthur could really turn this into a longer series, and I kinda hope she does. There’s a ton of action, deception and intrigue in these books – even though they can sometimes be hard to follow. I highly recommend this series.

Disclaimer:
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

4 Hearts
4 Hearts

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Lucky Harbor Series by Jill Shalvis

LuckyHarborJillShalvis

Guest Post – Jill Shalvis’ Lucky Harbor Series Wrap Up
 
Lucky Harbor started with three estranged sisters inheriting a dilapidated inn on the Pacific Northwest coast. It was supposed to be all one book, in fact. But I never could manage to contain it in one story so I split it into three, one love story for each sister. My goodness that was fun. It was so much fun, I came up with another trilogy idea. Three strangers stuck alone in a storm in a diner with nothing readily available except a chocolate cake. Hello, chocoholics. I thought it would end there but I’ve never been so happy to be wrong. And so, unbelievably, here I am twelve books later, still as much in love with Lucky Harbor as I ever was. Oh the fun I had coming up with characters and figuring out how to torture them.:) Seriously, I have the best job on the planet.
 
To celebrate the end of the series, today I’m answering some fan questions about Lucky Harbor.
 

In Always on My Mind, Leah and Jack have known each other for a very, very long time. When they reunite, do you have a favorite scene between the couple?

When Leah tells Jack’s mother that she and Jack are a couple … which is a really big fib.

Is there a character that really snuck up on you and surprised you when they took over the page?

Mysterious Cute Guy from Lucky in Love! He showed up for about a second in Head Over Heels and I didn’t even name him. But then when I was thinking about creating a new hero, he popped back in my head—it turns out his name is Ty and he is a tortured, bad-boy (well, former bad-boy 🙂

Which hero from Lucky Harbor gets the most reader attention? What do they say about him?

Probably Sawyer Thompson from Head Over Heels … he is widely beloved. And sexy as hell, if I say so myself. 🙂

For the next generation of Lucky Harbor residents, do you think the kids from the different couples will fall in love?

Yes!  I love this idea. I think Chloe and Sawyer’s kid will end up with one of Jax and Maddie’s kids. Just to drive the dads nuts. Can you imagine Sawyer as the father of a daughter? I feel sorry for the boys who want to date her.  🙂

***
 
Saying goodbye to Lucky Harbor was far more difficult than I imagined. I mean I thought I was ready to leave but as I wrote this last trilogy, It’s In His Kiss, He’s So Fine, and One In A Million, it really hit me. It was over. I was so sad that I wrote a holiday novella. 🙂 I couldn’t help myself! Merry Christmas, Baby (12/2) is my love letter to the Lucky Harbor readers (and a surprise revisit with one of my fave couples) who enjoyed the series and stuck with me for twelve books.  TWELVE books. I still can’t believe it. I’m not sure I’ll ever forget Jax, Ford, Sawyer, Ty, Matt, Josh, Luke, Jack, Ben, Sam, Cole, and Tanner…  Sob!  But I have plenty of new stories to tell, so no worries. I’m still writing the animal series and for those of you who read and loved Then Came You this past summer, Still The One comes out 4/15. And … drum roll please … I’ll have a brand new series coming out in 2015. The first book is written and I’m keeping it under my hat a little bit longer but let’s just say there’s some hot alpha brothers coming your way soon.
MerryChristmasBaby
 
Title: Merry Christmas, Baby
Author: Jill Shalvis
Release Date: December 2, 2014
Genre: Contemporary Romance

 

Wild child Chloe Thompson can’t believe how much things have changed. She still can’t get enough of her sexy husband Sawyer, but he seems to prefer working to thinking about impending fatherhood. So tonight, a very pregnant Chloe is escaping her troubles at the town Christmas party.
 
Sheriff Sawyer Thompson hopes surprising Chloe at the party will give him a chance to set things right. But as the snow begins to fall and the wind rages, he wonders whether he can make it back in time. While mother nature conspires to keep Sawyer and Chloe apart, an unexpected arrival will require them to kiss and make up . . . and ring in the happiest holiday Lucky Harbor has ever seen.
 
About the Author:

JillShalvis

New York Times bestselling author Jill Shalvis lives in a small town in the Sierras full of quirky characters. Any resemblance to the quirky characters in her books is, um, mostly coincidental. Look for Jill’s bestselling, award-winning books wherever romances are sold and visit her website for a complete book list and daily blog detailing her city-girl-living-in-the-mountains adventures.

Website/Twitter/Facebook

 

one in a million

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?

Amazon/B&N

Jennifer’s Review of One in a Million

Review (4.5 Stars): It is so sad to say goodbye to a series and I loved my time visiting Lucky Harbor with each and every book in the series. In One in a Million, Callie is back in Lucky Harbor to check on her loving grandmother, Lucille, and spend time focusing on her internet wedding business. She has always had a crush on sexy Tanner, but after her previous relationship fell apart, she isn’t ready to have anyone romantically in her life.   Tanner remembers Callie from their high school days and finds himself wanting to spend more time with this sexy yet awkward young woman that he keeps running into at the bakery.  Maybe for Callie and Tanner a second chance at love is just what they need if they can just take that leap of faith.
I loved, loved, loved Callie and Tanner.  I instantly connected with Callie because she felt that she was awkward and socially inept because I have felt that way several times myself.  She was so smart, sweet and funny and I knew that Tanner would fall for her because he needed someone like Callie in his life after everything that he had been through.  One in a Million is a fun, sexy romance that is the perfect ending for this wonderful series.  I love Ms. Shalvis’s books and I can’t wait to read the next series that she comes out with next.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Winter Romance Wednesday! Kelly & Kimberly review Yours For Christmas by Susan Mallery

yours for christmasTITLE: Yours for Christmas
SERIES #: Fools Gold #15.5
CHARACTERS: Kenny Scott & Bailey Voss
AUTHOR: Susan Mallery
PUBLICATION DATE: October 28, 2014
ORDER LINKS:Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Step out of the winter chill and into the warmth of Fool’s Gold, California, the charming small-town setting for a new holiday novella from New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery

Famous former NFL stars don’t date single working moms like Bailey Voss. She’ll allow herself to daydream about Kenny Scott’s muscles and killer smile, but wanting more would lead to post-holiday regret. Then Kenny volunteers to run a toy drive with Bailey, and she learns that he’s not just hot…he’s also generous, funny, nice. The whole package—tantalizingly out of reach.

The ache of past loss reminds Kenny why he needs to avoid getting too close to anyone. Especially to a gorgeous redhead and her adorable little girl. Mess it up, and he’d lose them both. Yet Kenny can only resist Bailey for so long. And as festive spirit spreads throughout the town, he’s all wrapped up in Bailey’s sweet, sexy kisses and determined to make this the first of many Christmases together

KELLY’S REVIEW:
4 Hearts As with all novella’s my review will be short and sweet.
Another great trip to the wonderful town of Fool’s Gold, California. I was so excited to read Kenny’s book. The tension between Kenny and Bailey has been growing over the last two book, ever since the Boys of The Score PR firm moved to Fool’s Gold. I really enjoyed Kenny & Bailey’s book. While I am a little sad that Kenny only got a novella I think that Ms. Mallery did a wonderful job with the story. Yes I would have liked more. But I am not sure that there would have been enough for a full length novel.

I am looking forward to the next book in this series!

KIMBERLY’S REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts Fool’s Gold is one of my favorite places to visit and Christmas time makes the visit even sweeter. This romance has been in the making for a long time. The moment Chloe walked up to Kenny he was a goner. It just took him all this time to realize it.

This is a short novella and therein lies the problem I wish this had been longer. I love Bailey and was so thrilled for her to be moving on with her life with Chloe. And Kenny is just a great guy and we have loved him through all the other books and it was sad that we didn’t get more of their romance.

No one should miss any of the books in the Fool’s Gold series but if you haven’t read any I suggest starting with this year’s trilogy of stories so you understand the connection of Bailey, Kenny and Chloe.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley & e-book Harlequin HQN in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

4 Hearts
4 Hearts