Favorite Quote: “Janey, you’ve been looking for trouble since the day you were born.“
Jane MacInnee has always has always had a crush on bad boy Finn Dante since childhood but she was the princess of the swamp they called home and he was from the other side of the tracks. Saddled with impossible family expectations. Jane escapes the rigid confines and expectations of her hometown and becomes an event planner to the rich. She has her life mapped out to the most minute detail. Nothing and no one is going to stand in her way.
Finn Dante, the bad boy who made good, is the only man who can upset Jane’s orderly controlled world. When he sweeps back into her life, Jane feels everything she has worked for is slipping away as he slowly works his way into her bed and life. Finn knows if he can just get her to let go and trust him to catch her as she falls, they can have a life filled with love, laughter, and fire fueled passion.
But Jane is scared and apprehensive about letting go. Finn finds himself having to spin her, confuse her, and unwind her until he can capture the heart of her and prove to her that losing control is more fun than she ever imagined.
Spin is the first book in a new erotic romance series by Bella Love. I will admit I would have preferred knowing that it was not a stand alone upfront but it didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the story. A sweet, humorous, erotic romance about a couple who, as adults, are finally able to explore the attraction that has simmered between them for years. That is, if they can overcome their fear of the unknown.
Jane, Janey Mac to Finn, might have been the princess of Dodge Run, but she didn’t have a fairytale life. A mentally ill mother and class distinctive father led Jane to become a what Finn calls “an annoyingly cheerful control freak.” She lived her life struggling to live up to her family’s expectations and the result has locked her down emotionally. Stay happy and in control is what keeps Jane from going insane. Though Jane annoyed me at times with her almost bipolar emotional state, watching her come into her own was gratifying. She’s scared of life but is willing to try and let go if Finn is her reward.
Finn is a delicious bad boy. Labelled white trash from childhood, Finn has managed to escape his past and go his own way, caring nothing of what people think of him. A curious but appealing mixture of alpha and beta, Finn isn’t one to overly dominate and control but rather help lead you (Janey) in the right direction. He has Janey’s number from the get go and rather than run from her craziness, he chooses to embrace it. I found it telling that Finn, the supposed bad one, got no less than six scholarships to various colleges while Janey, the good one, didn’t have the grades to get one single offer. It just goes to show you that you can’t judge a book by its cover. I like how he grounds Janey, offering her support for her choices but also telling her the truth. She’s scared and uses control to keep people from getting too close and he calls her on it.
“I’m tired of being your dare, Janey.”
The easy banter that Janey and Finn have together is delightful. Even though the book presents in alternating POVs, you’re never lost or ejected from a scenes. Sexy and witty, they made me chuckle repeatedly throughout the book. They had a great chemistry together and it showed.
“I feel like I could do anything,’ I whispered, my wrist slung around his neck. “Go for it.” “Last time you said that, you meant for me to stick my hands down your pants.” “That’s was I mean now.”
Their romance develops slowly even though the sex is blazingly hot and gallops right out the gate. Lots of show and tell makes for some steamy scenes. Though erotic in it’s nature, it’s vanilla with a touch of wild flavoring. Use of ginger root is about as freaky as it gets. Though there is a phone scene…and let’s just say the old saying, “reach out and touch someone” gets a whole new meaning. *wink*
A few subplots work their way through the book, twisting and turning, adding tension and the means for Janey and Finn to work through their fears. I did feel that some of the story was rushed and a few scenes didn’t quite match up the way they were meant to, coming across as struggling and unfinished. The ending, while inconclusive to the romance, doesn’t leave us dangling from a cliff. Finn and Janey are happy for now. Their story continues in Dare, release date to be announced.
Favorite Quote: “Janey, you’ve been looking for trouble since the day you were born.“
Jane MacInnee has always has always had a crush on bad boy Finn Dante since childhood but she was the princess of the swamp they called home and he was from the other side of the tracks. Saddled with impossible family expectations. Jane escapes the rigid confines and expectations of her hometown and becomes an event planner to the rich. She has her life mapped out to the most minute detail. Nothing and no one is going to stand in her way.
Finn Dante, the bad boy who made good, is the only man who can upset Jane’s orderly controlled world. When he sweeps back into her life, Jane feels everything she has worked for is slipping away as he slowly works his way into her bed and life. Finn knows if he can just get her to let go and trust him to catch her as she falls, they can have a life filled with love, laughter, and fire fueled passion.
But Jane is scared and apprehensive about letting go. Finn finds himself having to spin her, confuse her, and unwind her until he can capture the heart of her and prove to her that losing control is more fun than she ever imagined.
Spin is the first book in a new erotic romance series by Bella Love. I will admit I would have preferred knowing that it was not a stand alone upfront but it didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the story. A sweet, humorous, erotic romance about a couple who, as adults, are finally able to explore the attraction that has simmered between them for years. That is, if they can overcome their fear of the unknown.
Jane, Janey Mac to Finn, might have been the princess of Dodge Run, but she didn’t have a fairytale life. A mentally ill mother and class distinctive father led Jane to become a what Finn calls “an annoyingly cheerful control freak.” She lived her life struggling to live up to her family’s expectations and the result has locked her down emotionally. Stay happy and in control is what keeps Jane from going insane. Though Jane annoyed me at times with her almost bipolar emotional state, watching her come into her own was gratifying. She’s scared of life but is willing to try and let go if Finn is her reward.
Finn is a delicious bad boy. Labelled white trash from childhood, Finn has managed to escape his past and go his own way, caring nothing of what people think of him. A curious but appealing mixture of alpha and beta, Finn isn’t one to overly dominate and control but rather help lead you (Janey) in the right direction. He has Janey’s number from the get go and rather than run from her craziness, he chooses to embrace it. I found it telling that Finn, the supposed bad one, got no less than six scholarships to various colleges while Janey, the good one, didn’t have the grades to get one single offer. It just goes to show you that you can’t judge a book by its cover. I like how he grounds Janey, offering her support for her choices but also telling her the truth. She’s scared and uses control to keep people from getting too close and he calls her on it.
“I’m tired of being your dare, Janey.”
The easy banter that Janey and Finn have together is delightful. Even though the book presents in alternating POVs, you’re never lost or ejected from a scenes. Sexy and witty, they made me chuckle repeatedly throughout the book. They had a great chemistry together and it showed.
“I feel like I could do anything,’ I whispered, my wrist slung around his neck. “Go for it.” “Last time you said that, you meant for me to stick my hands down your pants.” “That’s was I mean now.”
Their romance develops slowly even though the sex is blazingly hot and gallops right out the gate. Lots of show and tell makes for some steamy scenes. Though erotic in it’s nature, it’s vanilla with a touch of wild flavoring. Use of ginger root is about as freaky as it gets. Though there is a phone scene…and let’s just say the old saying, “reach out and touch someone” gets a whole new meaning. *wink*
A few subplots work their way through the book, twisting and turning, adding tension and the means for Janey and Finn to work through their fears. I did feel that some of the story was rushed and a few scenes didn’t quite match up the way they were meant to, coming across as struggling and unfinished. The ending, while inconclusive to the romance, doesn’t leave us dangling from a cliff. Finn and Janey are happy for now. Their story continues in Dare, release date to be announced.
Favorite Quote: “Who has two thumbs and just came twice? This girl. Holy crap.”
Robin was the quintessential party girl until a onOriginally posted at
Favorite Quote: “Who has two thumbs and just came twice? This girl. Holy crap.”
Robin was the quintessential party girl until a one night stand throws her for a loop. Disgusted with herself, she has stopped drinking, stopped partying, and is looking to complete her next semester from her parents house. She doesn’t want to be “that girl” and hates that she can’t even talk to her friends about it.
Phoenix just got out of jail; broke and homeless. Crashing at his cousins’ house, he knows he needs to get a job and get out. When he meets Robin, he is instantly bowled over by how sweet and talented she is. She is the girl he always wanted but never thought he was good enough for.
As Phoenix and Robin spend more time together, Phoenix sees she is carrying a huge secret but hesitates to push her. When their pasts collide, neither are prepared for the explosive aftermath.
Believe is the third book in Erin McCarthy’s True Believers series. A new adult series that revolves around a group of friends and their issues with drugs, alcohol, and relationships. In Believe we meet Robin and Phoenix. Robin, one of Jessica’s (Sweet) and Rory’s (True) best friends, has been noticeably absent all summer. When she sleeps with her best friend’s boyfriend at the end of school, she undergoes a complete transformation and avoids everything and everybody who could trigger a relapse. Three months later, she meets Phoenix. Phoenix, Riley and Tyler’s cousin, has just gotten out of jail after a six month stint. He has anger issues and this time they landed him in jail. While he isn’t the perfect guy for her, there is a connection between them that allows them both to forget their pain and disgust for awhile.
Entertaining and emotionally satisfying, Believe doesn’t have quite the external drama the first two books had. While there is some, the conflict here is more internalized. Robin and Phoenix have issues that affect their views of themselves. McCarty’s signature clean writing style and a easy to follow storyline(s) makes it incredibly easy to become involved in this book. Heavily character driven, we easily fall in love with our hero and heroine from their first meeting.
“Do you have a boyfriend?” “What?” I almost dropped my paintbrush. “No. Why?” His phone slid across the table toward me. “Then give me your number.” “Why?” I said again, which was a totally moronic thing to say. But I didn’t get any vibe he even liked me, let alone was interested in me. For the first time, I saw the glimmer of a smile on his face. The corner of his mouth lifted slightly before he controlled it again. “Why do you think?” For a split second, I felt like myself, and I said the first thing that popped into my head. “So you can send me honey badger videos?” I joked, because it seemed like a safer response. He was just out of prison, and he had just broken up with his girlfriend ten minutes earlier. So not a good idea to get involved with him. I wasn’t up for dating anyone, let alone him. “Yes. And kitten memes.” “Well, in that case.”
McCarthy does a nice job of characterizing Robin and Phoenix as individuals and as a couple. Both protagonists are easy to sympathize with. Phoenix’s childhood involved a co dependant mother whose next fix was more important than taking care of her child. Robin, whose childhood was much better though she has a critical grandmother whose comments are nasty; uses parties and drinking to avoid dealing with her body issues and to boost her self confidence. Both learn that they are worth far more than their face value. The dual POVs enables us to see what each are feeling and thinking at pivotal moments. McCarthy takes their relationship slow, allowing them time to get to know one another and form a trust bond that supercedes their past behavior.
“I want you to remember that forever. Because I will.”
Though I felt the romance happened fast-insta love is never an easy sell-a part of me understood their need to cling to one another. Neither has ever had a relationship that didn’t involve some pretending on both their ends. No game playing and prime communication between our couple made the story more enjoyable in my eyes. The sexual scenes are bittersweet and sexy. The storyline and romance blend together effortlessly, elevating each other with a few plot twists to add to the overall tension.
We see plenty of past characters-Jess, Riley, Rory, and Tyler. I enjoyed their interaction and the outside observations and influence they bring. Seeing where they were at in their relationships and the hints given towards the future assures us they are all working hard towards their HEA. We also see a deviation from the past trope of the bad boy boyfriend the parents hate. Phoenix’s mom and Robin’s parents are rarely seen and when they are, they are there only in a supportive role.. Although, we do see the love/hate dynamics that affected the first book, True. Phoenix loves his mother but realises early on he can’t protect her from herself anymore.
The climatic moment that blows everything wide open isn’t so much a shocker as it is sad. Robin pays a heavy price for her drinking problem but it also frees her to move on with her life. Her guilt was like an albatross hanging from her neck. She may have lost a friend but she gained her sense of self back. The subplot involving Phoenix and his troubles seemed to come out of left field and resolved rather quickly. It didn’t really served a purpose.
While I enjoyed the story overall, I did have a few issues with it. One, Robin’s grandmother. I don’t subscribe to the notion that advanced age allows you to be cruel and I was surprised this wasn’t explored further.
Two, Jessica. I liked her well enough in True and Sweet but she became extremely judgemental in here and I was confused where this stemmed from. She makes noises about Robin leaving their room mate, Kylie, high and dry when Jessica does the same thing. She comes off jealous of Phoenix and I wasn’t buying the custody battle excuse. She didn’t want to share her new found family and it showed. Does this mean no relatives of the boys can ever come to visit? She’s also extra harsh with Robin after the big reveal; even after seeing evidence that it wasn’t all Robin’s fault.
Three, Robin blacked out from too much alcohol and woke up in bed with Nathan. She remembers basically nothing. It was essentially date rape and that aspect is never addressed.
Regardless of my misgivings, Believe is a sweet new adult love story that takes us journey of friendship, self discovery, forgiveness, and love. McCarthy continues to entertain with the third installment of True Believers series. She also includes a brief excerpt from book four, Shatter, which releases in June 17, 2014.
Overall Rating: C+
Merged review:
Originally posted at
Favorite Quote: “Who has two thumbs and just came twice? This girl. Holy crap.”
Robin was the quintessential party girl until a one night stand throws her for a loop. Disgusted with herself, she has stopped drinking, stopped partying, and is looking to complete her next semester from her parents house. She doesn’t want to be “that girl” and hates that she can’t even talk to her friends about it.
Phoenix just got out of jail; broke and homeless. Crashing at his cousins’ house, he knows he needs to get a job and get out. When he meets Robin, he is instantly bowled over by how sweet and talented she is. She is the girl he always wanted but never thought he was good enough for.
As Phoenix and Robin spend more time together, Phoenix sees she is carrying a huge secret but hesitates to push her. When their pasts collide, neither are prepared for the explosive aftermath.
Believe is the third book in Erin McCarthy’s True Believers series. A new adult series that revolves around a group of friends and their issues with drugs, alcohol, and relationships. In Believe we meet Robin and Phoenix. Robin, one of Jessica’s (Sweet) and Rory’s (True) best friends, has been noticeably absent all summer. When she sleeps with her best friend’s boyfriend at the end of school, she undergoes a complete transformation and avoids everything and everybody who could trigger a relapse. Three months later, she meets Phoenix. Phoenix, Riley and Tyler’s cousin, has just gotten out of jail after a six month stint. He has anger issues and this time they landed him in jail. While he isn’t the perfect guy for her, there is a connection between them that allows them both to forget their pain and disgust for awhile.
Entertaining and emotionally satisfying, Believe doesn’t have quite the external drama the first two books had. While there is some, the conflict here is more internalized. Robin and Phoenix have issues that affect their views of themselves. McCarty’s signature clean writing style and a easy to follow storyline(s) makes it incredibly easy to become involved in this book. Heavily character driven, we easily fall in love with our hero and heroine from their first meeting.
“Do you have a boyfriend?” “What?” I almost dropped my paintbrush. “No. Why?” His phone slid across the table toward me. “Then give me your number.” “Why?” I said again, which was a totally moronic thing to say. But I didn’t get any vibe he even liked me, let alone was interested in me. For the first time, I saw the glimmer of a smile on his face. The corner of his mouth lifted slightly before he controlled it again. “Why do you think?” For a split second, I felt like myself, and I said the first thing that popped into my head. “So you can send me honey badger videos?” I joked, because it seemed like a safer response. He was just out of prison, and he had just broken up with his girlfriend ten minutes earlier. So not a good idea to get involved with him. I wasn’t up for dating anyone, let alone him. “Yes. And kitten memes.” “Well, in that case.”
McCarthy does a nice job of characterizing Robin and Phoenix as individuals and as a couple. Both protagonists are easy to sympathize with. Phoenix’s childhood involved a co dependant mother whose next fix was more important than taking care of her child. Robin, whose childhood was much better though she has a critical grandmother whose comments are nasty; uses parties and drinking to avoid dealing with her body issues and to boost her self confidence. Both learn that they are worth far more than their face value. The dual POVs enables us to see what each are feeling and thinking at pivotal moments. McCarthy takes their relationship slow, allowing them time to get to know one another and form a trust bond that supercedes their past behavior.
“I want you to remember that forever. Because I will.”
Though I felt the romance happened fast-insta love is never an easy sell-a part of me understood their need to cling to one another. Neither has ever had a relationship that didn’t involve some pretending on both their ends. No game playing and prime communication between our couple made the story more enjoyable in my eyes. The sexual scenes are bittersweet and sexy. The storyline and romance blend together effortlessly, elevating each other with a few plot twists to add to the overall tension.
We see plenty of past characters-Jess, Riley, Rory, and Tyler. I enjoyed their interaction and the outside observations and influence they bring. Seeing where they were at in their relationships and the hints given towards the future assures us they are all working hard towards their HEA. We also see a deviation from the past trope of the bad boy boyfriend the parents hate. Phoenix’s mom and Robin’s parents are rarely seen and when they are, they are there only in a supportive role.. Although, we do see the love/hate dynamics that affected the first book, True. Phoenix loves his mother but realises early on he can’t protect her from herself anymore.
The climatic moment that blows everything wide open isn’t so much a shocker as it is sad. Robin pays a heavy price for her drinking problem but it also frees her to move on with her life. Her guilt was like an albatross hanging from her neck. She may have lost a friend but she gained her sense of self back. The subplot involving Phoenix and his troubles seemed to come out of left field and resolved rather quickly. It didn’t really served a purpose.
While I enjoyed the story overall, I did have a few issues with it. One, Robin’s grandmother. I don’t subscribe to the notion that advanced age allows you to be cruel and I was surprised this wasn’t explored further.
Two, Jessica. I liked her well enough in True and Sweet but she became extremely judgemental in here and I was confused where this stemmed from. She makes noises about Robin leaving their room mate, Kylie, high and dry when Jessica does the same thing. She comes off jealous of Phoenix and I wasn’t buying the custody battle excuse. She didn’t want to share her new found family and it showed. Does this mean no relatives of the boys can ever come to visit? She’s also extra harsh with Robin after the big reveal; even after seeing evidence that it wasn’t all Robin’s fault.
Three, Robin blacked out from too much alcohol and woke up in bed with Nathan. She remembers basically nothing. It was essentially date rape and that aspect is never addressed.
Regardless of my misgivings, Believe is a sweet new adult love story that takes us journey of friendship, self discovery, forgiveness, and love. McCarthy continues to entertain with the third installment of True Believers series. She also includes a brief excerpt from book four, Shatter, which releases in June 17, 2014.
What a mind f*uck. A dark erotic PNR that pushes boundaries and blurs the lines between good and evil. No one is who they say, nothing is what it seemWhat a mind f*uck. A dark erotic PNR that pushes boundaries and blurs the lines between good and evil. No one is who they say, nothing is what it seems, and everyone has an agenda.
Merged review:
What a mind f*uck. A dark erotic PNR that pushes boundaries and blurs the lines between good and evil. No one is who they say, nothing is what it seems, and everyone has an agenda....more
Two mortal enemies must work together when their lives work is stolen and sold to the highest bidder. A bidder who wants to destroy them all.
Fans of Two mortal enemies must work together when their lives work is stolen and sold to the highest bidder. A bidder who wants to destroy them all.
Fans of Ilona Andrews' Hidden Legacy series will love the Kinsman series. Fated Blades is an ass-kicking enemy to lovers sci fi adventure filled with humor, sacrifice, drama, suspense, and a centuries-old family grudge. You don't have to read these in order to enjoy them.
I've been a longtime fan of Jayne Castle as well as her non de plumes-Amanda Quick and Jayne Krentz. Her harmony series is a top favorite of mine. TheI've been a longtime fan of Jayne Castle as well as her non de plumes-Amanda Quick and Jayne Krentz. Her harmony series is a top favorite of mine. The 14th in this series-Guild Boss-picks up in Illusion Town and what follows is a rambunctious adventure with all the necessary componets guaranteed to entertain....more
When prima ballerina Emily Charles receives an invitation to the most exclusive BDSM club in New Orleans, Noire House, she is positive she will finallWhen prima ballerina Emily Charles receives an invitation to the most exclusive BDSM club in New Orleans, Noire House, she is positive she will finally get to explore her kinks and find the release she has craved all her life. Meeting the elusive Sam Roche only sweetens the deal. As Emily and Sam grow closer and the spark that fuels their chemistry deepens the ties that bind them, Emily is convinced she has found the dominant meant to be her master. But there are factors in play that Emily is unaware of and when she learns who Sam really is, she will have to decide which is more important…Sam or her hard-won career.
Thorne’s debut erotic romance is a female-centric promises an enticing premise that explores a young woman’s sexual fantasies and the reasons behind them. And almost succeeds. The set up is solid with the attention firmly on the heroine and her issues but I felt that Thorne never seems to go beyond the exploratory stage of BDSM and it’s many facets. The insta-love rushes over the romance’s development and left little to the imagination. The initial meeting of the heroine and the hero creates a vacuum that Thorne is forced to fill with unnecessary conflict while Emily’s aura of innocence comes off childish at times. My main concern was that Sam and Emily never discussed any true limits and her refusal to use her safeword. She had no sense of preservation and Sam, as an experienced Dom should have been more proactive in her safety and mindset. The end is an emotional finale used to force the hero to accept the relationship but leaves us with a slight cliffhanger for a secondary character. All in all a good start, just needs some tightening up and a better balance in the subject matter and deeper character dynamics.
I’ve been hit and miss with this series. Some I enjoyed, others were okay. The fifth in Jordan’s sexy prison based contemporary romance offers a compeI’ve been hit and miss with this series. Some I enjoyed, others were okay. The fifth in Jordan’s sexy prison based contemporary romance offers a compelling story of second chance love, small-town prejudices, and redemption. A young man is released from prison after evidence is found that exonerates him only to discover his small town doesn’t care what the courts say. Throughout this series, Jordan has built vulnerable heroes and heroines who are forced to face their biggest fears in order to move forward. Not a bad trope though at times, like now, the journey is riddled with ridiculous sterotypical behavior from people 10+ years out of high school and a couple, who in my opinion, allows their bullying to go too far. We meet a man and a woman who fell for one another years ago and circumstances kept them apart. Now they have a second chance but again, their own issues block their way. The chemistry driven romance is strong but it had a hard time competing against the multitude of subplots. Especially the “reporter must lie to the man she loves to get story of a lifetime.” Plus, the constant flashbacks and certain scenes left me hard-pressed to suspend my disbelief. Or anger. Body shaming, slut shaming, prison shaming, economic shaming…so much shaming. The last quarter or so was the strongest part which helped to amp up my interest and the speed. Unfortunately, by then I was ready for the end.
Cruz Walsh has been released from prison after serving seven years for a crime he didn’t commit. But some people in town aren’t ready or willing to welcome back with open arms. Except for Gabriella Rossi. That is if she can get past her own feelings of insecurity and the tiny problem that if she doesn’t get an exclusive inside story soon, she will lose her job. In prison, Cruz learned the value of family and family. He wants a fresh start and wants Gabriella there by his side, but with all the lies, gossip, and general mayhem, this beautiful sinner may not be able to keep the only good thing in his life.
Favorite Quote: “It was good to be free. Good to be home.”
As Lyonesse is slowly being destroyed, it’s ruler, King Oberon, sleeps deep within his palacFavorite Quote: “It was good to be free. Good to be home.”
As Lyonesse is slowly being destroyed, it’s ruler, King Oberon, sleeps deep within his palace, the victim of an assassination attempt. His only chance at a cure comes in the form of the top Elder Race surgeon, Dr. Katheryn Shaw. When she arrives, her presence awakens him though he is no longer the man he was before. His only means of survival caused his emotions to be stripped from him. Now Katheryn must find a way to not only cure his body but also his soul. Because Queen Isabeau is coming to finish what she started and unless Oberon can come to care about Lyonese and his people again, it will fall forever.
The 3rd story in Harrison’s Moonshadow trilogy gives us King Oberon’s story and the final conclusion to the war between the Fae Courts. Set in the same world as her Elder Races series, the focus here is on the Fae demesnes and the ongoing war. Easily read as a standalone, you do not have to read the Elder Races to enjoy though I do recommend starting with book one of this trilogy-Moonshadow. If you have been following the series, you will remember that Oberon had vanished and Lyonesse has been shut off from the world by the Light Queen’s Hound-Morgan le Fae. Those who managed to escape are seen in book one, rallying for help while book two deals with Morgan Le Fae and his battle to escape Isabeau’s control.
Fans of the Elder Races, especially Dragos, will definitely love King Oberon (King of the Daoine Sidhe) who exhibits the same sense of power, arrogance, and all-encompassing passion. As old as Dragos, Oberon was celebrating the Winter Solace when Morgan le Fae bespelled him. Oberon was forced to put himself into a coma to save his life and the lives of those around him. Unfortunately, when he went to sleep, his power went unchecked and the city became a frozen tomb. When he realizes his domain has been breached, he awakens with a fury, seeking to destroy that which has dared to disturb him.
Pieces of dried fruit lay sprinkled over the trampled crimson-and-gold bedspread like confetti, and there was the sharp, aromatic scent of cheese. Curious, he pawed at a small, overturned tub. As he flipped it over, one of his claws sank into soft butter.
He licked it off as he took in other details. Amid the rubble was a fur-lined cloak and a strange piece of clothing that looked like a formfitting blue coat, and another odd, lightweight sheet of something that looked like metal but was pliable and made of a foreign substance he had never seen before. The interloper had planned a ravishment, and she had brought… snacks?
Dr. Kathyrn Shaw has been a mainstay throughout the Elder Races series. She has saved the day on multiple occasions and her assistance in Moonshadow opened the door to the fight that ends in here. One of the Wyn and trusted by the inner circle surrounding Dragos, she has the moxie and strength to hold her own against the bigger creatures who exist. Intelligent and witty, I found her calm demeanor, crisp mannerisms, and innovative ideas quite amusing as she pits herself against one of the most dangerous creatures in the demesnes.
Silkily, he asked, Cat got your tongue?
Very funny. Her grumpy mental voice sounded much better than her physical voice did. Okay, I apologize. I am so very sorry for what happened—
Come down here and face me properly, or are you too much of a coward to do so? He threw out the challenge carelessly. He had no real expectation she would comply. If they stood face-to-face and she was grounded from flight, he had no doubt he could easily destroy her.And she certainly didn’t seem to be motivated to continue the confrontation on the ground. Instead, she told him in a steady, crisp voice, Oberon, you’re going to die unless you consent to medical treatment.
That voice. That sounded exactly like the voice that had wound through his dreams, interrupting his nightmares of Isabeau. He snapped, I did not give you permission to address me by my name.
She retorted, I don’t really give a shit.
When Kathryn and Oberon come to an “understanding” the real work begins.
Harrison does an excellent job in here of not only expanding on the history and politics of the Fae courts without overburdening us with recaps and unnecessary information while slowly building a romance between two strong-willed people. Warriors who are honor bound to care for those around them. The enormity of their precarious situation is tempered by sharp wit and moments of compassion and sorrow. I love that Kathryn gives Oberon no quarter. She treats him like a patient and slaps him down when he gets a little too autocratic. She has served under Dragos for centuries…Oberon is a piece of cake.
“What other symptoms have you experienced since the attack?” […] I remember having the emotions, but I no longer experience them. In fact, I only feel two things anymore: anger and lust.”
She stopped writing, suddenly inundated with the memory of yesterday’s encounter. The feeling of his mouth moving so urgently over hers as he speared her with his tongue. The delicious sense of weight as he shifted to lie on top of her, and the thick, heavy feeling of his erection pressing against her hip. For one shocking, mindless moment it had been glorious.
His voice sounded softly in her ear, deep and dark as the ocean and rough with the lion’s purr. “But I do feel anger and lust very deeply, Doctor.”
She had gotten so lost in her reverie she hadn’t noticed he had come around to her side of the desk, and she nearly leaped out of her skin. “For crying out loud, Oberon! Back up and give me some personal space!”
She listened to her own exclamation with deep dismay. That was supposed to have come out much more sharply than it had. Instead of sounding disapproving and offended, her voice had sounded as breathless as a gasp.
“Are you sure that’s what you really want?” Callused fingers traced the line of her jaw, down the side of her neck, and lightly pressed against the very spot where he had sucked so hungrily at her pulse. She remembered. Oh, she remembered it all too well. The shadow of his body fell over hers on the desk as he bent over her, and his lips brushed against the sensitive shell of her ear as he whispered, “Or wouldn’t you rather experiment with just how deep and hard my feelings can really go?”
Oberon had her rattled. He knew he did.
But suddenly she laughed, and the bright, carefree sound broke the sensual spell he had begun to weave over them both. “Did you really just say that to me? My lord, that line was bad.”
She wasn’t funny.
Though heavily driven, the strong narrative and steady bites of action and intrigue keep the storyline flowing at a brisk pace. Favorite characters from both series make appearances to this readers delight. I enjoy any interactions with Dragos and the New York demesne, especially when clues are given to what is coming new. We also meet back up with couples from books one and two. I was a little disappointed we did not see Queen Titania and Queen Tricks. As part of the fae demease, it was odd they weren’t a part of this trilogy. I especially loved the scenes with Robin aka Puck. Heartfelt, his journey has been a tough one and everything he went through to save his king was heart wrenching.
Your king is going to die unless something is done for him. Why didn’t you want to bring Annwyn and the troops with us?”
He stamped at the snow desultory. Other than tangling his mane and tail, the wind and the massive cold didn’t seem to affect him at all. “I wanted to judge you for myself while they weren’t around. If you were a threat, I would take care of you.” He looked at her sidelong to see how she took his words.
He might be old, unpredictable, and dangerous, but he had nothing on a cantankerous, bullheaded dragon. She said gently, “You were looking after your king.”
“He told me to guard his place and watch them. A long time ago, Isabeau took me and held me captive for years. I failed him once. I won’t fail him again.”
Lionheart leaves readers happy with it’s firm resolution to the main conflict yet just enough open to allow her back into this world again. As always, Harrison gives readers an adventure overflowing with action, suspense, humor, romance, and just enough tragedy to make the journey unforgettable.
Delightfully charming and deliciously wicked, Singh outshines herself in her latest romance that examines the Indian tradition of arranged marriage and one couples’ determination to find a way to adhere to their culture without losing themselves in the process. Witty, bold and oh so sexy, Singh opens up for readers a colorful family-oriented culture rich in tradition as she introduces us to a hero and heroine for whom family is everything. Brimming with laughter and love, you can’t help but cheer for the stoic hero and his heroine who just want to be loved for who they are. Raj’s and Nayna’s families only serve to add more drama and laughter to the story as they go through their own personal upheavals from grandma stepping out and a wife wanting more of a partnership to a couple on the brink of divorce and one’s man’s taste of mortality. Rebel Hard is another winner in my book.
Nayna Sharma only agreed to her family’s offers of an arranged marriage in order to heal the cracks caused by her sister’s poor choices. In an attempt to regain control of her life, Nayna decides to be the bad girl for one night, she and a friend head to a party and she find her way into the arms of a ruggedly handsome stranger. Raj Sen agrees to allow his parents to arrange his marriage because he believes in tradition and rules. When he meets Nayna he is enchanted with her beauty but when he discovers she is his intended, he finds himself reluctantly falling in love with her maddening ways and lack of rules.
Neither is what the other one wants but sometimes what you want isn’t always what you need.
A funny sexy alien romance that offers much in terms of humor and smexy times. A group of alien warriors invade an Earth space station, looking for coA funny sexy alien romance that offers much in terms of humor and smexy times. A group of alien warriors invade an Earth space station, looking for compatible women and capture more then they bargained for. Each book focusses on one warrior and his mate while furthering an underlying long reaching arc. Quick fun reads. ...more
Darby Dixon makes a run for the border when she discovers she’s pregnant on her wedding day. Unable to face being tied permanently to her abusGrade: D
Darby Dixon makes a run for the border when she discovers she’s pregnant on her wedding day. Unable to face being tied permanently to her abusive fiance, she leaves and reinvents herself as a young single mother in a small Colorado town. Picking up a job at a local hotel, she meets a man who reminds her too much of her fiance and vows to stay away but what Scott Trexler, former Marine and top security specialist wants…he gets. And he wants Darby. As Trex struggles to prove to Darby they were meant for one another, there is someone stalking Darby from afar. Someone who also wants Darby back and will kill anyone who gets in his way.
If you have read McGuire’s Maddox Brothers series then you almost for sure know how this story goes. The first in a new series, Crash and Burn, a beautiful troubled woman meets a gorgeous alpha male with a warrior complex who falls instantly in love with her and does whatever possible to make her his. I found myself torn while reading the book. I liked the subplots; Darby’s issues with her abusive ex-fiance and uninterested mother, her job at the hotel, and Trex’s secret new job. I just wasn’t a fan of the romance. Insta love bore me to death. It was predictable, cliched, and overly melodramatic. The religion overtones felt like McGuire was trying to shove a square peg into a round hole and seemed more a way to assure us of Darby’s purity than anything else. Add in the clunky dialogue and obnoxious characters and I was left rather uninspired by it all....more
Fans have waited breathlessly for this installment in Callihan’s steamy and emotionally deep VIP series. Rich in sensory detail and boldly unapologetiFans have waited breathlessly for this installment in Callihan’s steamy and emotionally deep VIP series. Rich in sensory detail and boldly unapologetic, in Fall, Callihan tackles the serious issues of mental health, self-harm, depression, and abuse with compassion and a heavy dose of common sense while building a romance that brims with laughter and heart. Jax aka John Blackwell, lead singer for the band Kill John, has stood out throughout the series as his suicide attempt was the catalyst that flattened the emotional barriers of the other band members. Love, laughter, heartbreak, forgiveness, and healing are the themes of this love story that revolves around two people who have been essentially used and abandoned by those who should have known better. Strong narrative and compelling scenes keep the story moving at a steady base, allowing readers an intimate look at fame, family, and the demands placed by both. Stella and Jax are a delightful couple to watch fall into love though it is only the beginning of their journey towards happiness. Though some may find it triggering, Fall gives a seeming honest portrayal of life with depression and the trials and triumphs that can be had by all.
Jax is back in New York though he is still feeling off-kilter as his best friend is out of the country and he is soon to be trapped by a raging blizzard. A trip to the local market for supplies ends in stolen ice cream and a kiss that sets his soul on fire. Luckily, fate steps in and gives him a name to match the kissing ice cream stealing bandit-Stella. Stella is shocked when her inherited apartment goes condo and she is being kicked out with nowhere to go. Fate steps in again to offer her a job house sitting in a posh Manhatten condo that just happens to be next door to the stranger she kissed on a whim. As Stella and Jax spend more time together, the flames of their attraction build into something deeper and more addictive. But for two people who don’t believe in love or forever, falling for each other may take more trust than either can give.
The Beijing Duck House is a well known local establishment beloved by it’s aging clientele and loyal waitstaff. When disaster strikes, it forces everyThe Beijing Duck House is a well known local establishment beloved by it’s aging clientele and loyal waitstaff. When disaster strikes, it forces everyone with a connection to the restaurant to face the conflicts that have been simmering for years and decide for once where loyalty begins and ends.
Li writes an interesting and emotionally complex multi-generational story that looks deep into the culture of an Asian American family and the conflicts that have ruled their lives as they strive to achieve the American dream promised to them so many years ago. Told from three points of view, we watch as this large family bound by blood and friendship cope with the upheaval caused by one of their own. Darkly humorous and honest, Li showcases her characters in a bright light, taking no pains to cover their flaws as she guides readers through a turbulent sea of family dysfunction, melodrama, parental manipulation, and child rebellion. A little dry and verbose at times, the overall story engaged and I look forward to seeing what Li comes up with next. Grade: C+...more
Favorite Quote: “I always sleep naked.” “Not with me you don’t.” “As this was the first time we slept together, I did not realize we had established proFavorite Quote: “I always sleep naked.” “Not with me you don’t.” “As this was the first time we slept together, I did not realize we had established protocol.”
Alyse Bell was sold into marriage when her father gave her to a friend in the hopes she would be protected after he passed away. Having reached her maturity, she is ready to start her future with her best friend who promised to come back and take her away. Only, he never arrives and her “husband” arranges for the auction to continue so he can marry another. As she stands on the auction block in the center of town, a rope around her neck like chattel and fuming in silence as she watches those she considers her friends and family bidding on her like a fatted calf, a handsome stranger rides into the square and places the winning bid.
Marcus Weatherton (The Scandal of it All) left London after discovering his stepmother was in love with his best friend and his fiancee dumped him for his illegitimate brother. Waking up in jail after an all-night bender, Marcus heads out of town out only to happen upon an auction where a young woman is being sold to the highest bidder. Shocked and outraged by the scene, Marcus intervenes only to discover he didn’t buy her freedom…he bought a wife.
Expecting gratitude, he instead gets attitude and decides to take her to his estate in Scotland and set her up as his housekeeper. But the road to redemption is long and a series of misadventures and close calls shows Marcus that life often gifts you with what you need when you least expect it.
Marcus, the fifth Duke of Autenberry, woke up with a startled jolt face-down in horse shit… So begins the third novel in Sophie Jordan’s Rogue Files series-The Duke Buys a Bride. Delightfully witty and overflowing with snark, guilt, pride, and sexual tension, Jordan writes a compelling and bittersweet story that addresses the lack of female agency and one man’s abrupt awakening to his own privilege. Laughter and a few heart-pinching moments firmly engages the reader as Jordan weaves an opposite attraction romance that delights and enchants from page one.
I love opposite attraction and marriages of convenience, especially when the couple are strong-willed, decidedly independent, and well versed in the art of witty repertoire. Alyce knows her place in the world and has accepted it for the time being because she’s always has a plan. When her plan falls through, she adjusts and adapts. Something women have been doing for ages. Married at a very young age, she was essentially a nanny to the older man’s children and a caretaker for him. It was a tolerable situation because Alyse knew it wouldn’t last forever. Having planned to marry her childhood sweetheart, she is once again denied her voice when he runs away, leaving her at the mercy of the town and her soon-no-to-be husband.
He was supposed to take her with him. He had promised they would begin a life together […] He had agreed. But he left. He had abandoned her. Left her to be auctioned off, sold to any man with the whim to buy her.
Purchased by a stranger, Alyse is determined to use her latest situation to her advantage as they head towards his estate. She attempts to engage Marcus only to find a stubborn, grumpy, and rather stinky man whose speech and carriage tell her he’s not from around there and of a much higher social setting.
“Where are you from?” A beat of silence passed before he answered. “England.” “Obviously.” […] “I hear the highlands are lovely any time of year. I imagine covered in snow they are quite majestic.” At last, he asked in a wearied voice, “Do you plan to talk the entire journey?” “Have you an aversion to conversation, sir? We will be in each others company for a long time and I thought it might help.” “Help? With what? I don’t require pointless banter.” Pointless banter? She huffed out a foggy breath. The man did not win points for charm.
So begins their battle of wits.
Alyse and Marcus are an amusingly prickly couple, tossed together by circumstance. Alyse just wants the freedom long denied her and Marcus wants to be left alone to wallow in his misery. A reluctant hero, Marcus is caught between wanting to save the fair maiden but now that he has, he is unsure what to do with her. His own childhood and a series of blows he has suffered in London has left him weary and disillusioned. He denies the chemistry he feels between them, unable to accept this young woman may be his destiny. Alyse herself has no illusions about Marcus or even romance in general. She has been disappointed so many times. She knows she is not for him and is put out when he cleans up and she can see exactly who he is.
Dear God. This was the man who bought her. Her employer. He’d bathed, shaved, and was positily transformed. He was…beautiful. No, no, no, no. He could not be this. He could not look like this. She could not be stuck with…this.
A series of mishaps follow them on their way to his estate; from sickness to kidnapping, they push their way forward. Marcus fluctuates between bemoaning his situation to worrying about her every step of the way. He repeatedly finds himself in compromising situations with her only to back away and cry foul. He refuses to legitimize their marriage, though when she is abducted, he discovers he cannot live let her go. She has become more than a duty…a burden. She had become a person he cared about.
Their first night together he had simply climbed into bed with her, giving her little thought. Them she was nothing more than a woman he had bought at auction. Someone he had taken pity on and helped through a difficult time.
Now she was something more.
No longer a stranger.
An eclectic cast of secondary characters gives the book some depth and provides amusement. I enjoyed seeing Marcus’ brother and his wife. Alyse’s friend/stepdaughter Nellie was a fierce one and I loved her protective nature. Some minor issues left me a little berate though didn’t spoil my overall enjoyment. I do wish the focus hadn’t been totally on just this couple. I would have enjoyed seeing some resolution from what happened in London though Jordan hints at some reconciliation on that front while preparing the way for the next book concerning Marcus’s sister.
The Duke Buys A Bride is another grand adventure from Sophie Jordan and an entertaining addition to this series.
B+ A deliciously sexy and amusing tale of mistaken identity, family, and first love when a clock setter finds herself teaching two young orphans and tB+ A deliciously sexy and amusing tale of mistaken identity, family, and first love when a clock setter finds herself teaching two young orphans and trying desperately not to fall for their delectable guardian. ...more