5/5 Review: Brotherhood in Death by J.D. Robb

Sometimes brotherhood can be another word for conspiracy. . . .
Dennis Mira just had two unpleasant surprises. First he learned that his cousin Edward was secretly meeting with a real estate agent about their late grandfather’s magnificent West Village brownstone, despite the promise they both made to keep it in the family. Then, when he went to the house to confront Edward about it, he got a blunt object to the back of the head.

Luckily Dennis is married to Charlotte Mira, the NYPSD’s top profiler and a good friend of Lieutenant Eve Dallas. When the two arrive on the scene, he explains that the last thing he saw was Edward in a chair, bruised and bloody. When he came to, his cousin was gone. With the mess cleaned up and the security disks removed, there’s nothing left behind but a few traces for forensics to analyze.

As a former lawyer, judge, and senator, Edward Mira mingled with the elite and crossed paths with criminals, making enemies on a regular basis. Like so many politicians, he also made some very close friends behind closed—and locked—doors. But a badge and a billionaire husband can get you into places others can’t go, and Eve intends to shine some light on the dirty deals and dark motives behind the disappearance of a powerful man, the family discord over a multimillion-dollar piece of real estate . . . and a new case that no one saw coming.

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I've read all in death books and short stories in this series and this is probably in the top five most emotionally intense of the books.It's also packs a serious emotional punch. If you haven't read any of the previous books, this is not the book to start the series with, since you have to know the characters and the back story to get the full emotional impact here. As with all lengthy series, there are some books that hit me on deep levels and set themselves apart from the others. "Brotherhood in Death" is definitely one of those. Without giving away anything--while saying enough that those who have already read it will understand--the scene where she tells Mr. Mira what was done to her actually brought tears to my eyes. I almost think this book title should have been "Family in Death".  I loved, loved, loved this book.

Robb pens gripping emotional upheaval and significant character growth for Eve. Whether it is Eve’s reaction to viewing the recordings, the uneasiness of knowing what the killers is doing is wrong but also understanding the pain that they are feeling, Robb puts Eve’s emotions and her pain out in the open. Even with Roarke and her marriage providing a rock on which to balance, she still struggles to weather the storm, literally and figuratively. And Robb provides Roarke with a few moments of realizing that there are somethings he cant shield Dallas from.

I love how Roberts has developed the relationship with Eve and her husband, Roarke and hope that in the next few books they have a baby and she will not find the need to end the series. A pregnant Eve and expectant Roarke would give this series an added zing. And likely push the heroine to pursue Captain status, a desk job she isn't quite yet ready for.


From the very beginning, I was fully caught up in the heart-wrenching account of the Brotherhoods crimes. The sense of understanding, that Dallas has for the victims, makes for a story that covers the range of human emotions. The touches of humor are great, too, they add some nice contrast and lighten things a bit when emotions are running high. I've never read a book more deserving of being published. It has rare depth. This story will remind her readers that life and love are precious and not to be taken for granted. It has had an impact on me, and for that I'm grateful. Brotherhood in Death is written with so much sensitivity and raw emotion that it made me want to cry. It is a spellbinder. What terrific writing. Robb does have an exceptional gift! This Book is definitely a 10.



4/5 Review: Make You Mine by Jackie Ashenden

He's raising the stakes.

International playboy Alex St. James always plays to win. Whether it's betting on a high-stakes card game—or bedding a high-class socialite—the gorgeous world-class gambler knows how to beat the odds using his brains, his body, and a whole lot of charm. But there's one woman who's immune to Alex's bag of tricks—which makes her the perfect challenge…and the ultimate prize.

She's going all in.Once a special operative in her native Russia, Katya Ivanov knows what kind of man Alex is. As his personal bodyguard, she's seen him seduce the richest women, place the riskiest bets, and break the hardest players. But to even a score from her past, she's willing to take a gamble on her reckless boss. Even if she has to pretend to be his lover. Even if he drives her mad with desire. And then she never wants this dangerous game to end…

**********

 

 

When I first started reading Make You Mine by Jackie Ashenden, I was not an Alex fan.  He was arrogant and too self absorbed.  It was as I read further that I realized that he was using that as a cover to hide who he really was.  He was obviously not over what happened to him in the past and used his charm and quick mind to become who he is.  He is great at reading people, making him one of the best card players.  When he sees an opportunity, he takes it.  Take Katya for example.  She is his bodyguard, the best of the best.  She shows no emotions, gets the job done and has the hots for her boss.  Once Alex sees the flicker of emotion in her, he pounces.  She is his target.  Knowing she has a last minute rescue mission in Russia and needs his resources, he uses it to his advantage.  Before he helps her she needs to help him. 
The way the story unfolded was incredible.  It starts you off slow and gives you a small taste of what to expect then it grabs you and will not let go until the last page.  I admire Katya.  Her sense of honor and duty are amazing but once she gets a taste of Alex she doesn't want to let go.  Jackie did an incredible job with this story and it is a definite recommendation of mine.
 



3/5 Review: For Love Or Magic by Lucy March

Eliot Parker's good-for-nothing deceased husband has left her a new lease on life: a house in sleepy Nodaway Falls, New York. But his offer comes with a cost: his ghost...


As if being married to him wasn't hard enough! Nodaway Falls turns out to be a town with more than a little magic in the air. Eliot swore off using her own powers sixteen years ago, thanks to one catastrophic day when she lost the only people who ever mattered to her, and ran away from her spellbinding father and his reckless enchantments. Now, when a chance encounter with quiet, handsome Desmond Lamb results in a magical explosion that rocks Eliot to the core, she can't help but wonder: Has her heart fallen under some sort of spell? Or is this what true love really feels like? The real question, of course, is whether her husband will stop haunting her...and let Desmond give her a chance at happily ever after?

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This is my first book by this author, and I was excited about reading this  book. Unfortunately, my excitement dissipated with every page. This book is for lack of a better word "boring". There is barely any action to speak of. I felt like I had to go on a hunting expedition to find a sentence that actually meant something (i.e. had some action or dialogue) rather than the endless sentences describing everything in detail. Though there were several scenes that took place in a bar or in someone's home, I felt more like I was stuck in a boring play. There was very little humor to speak of, hardly any snark. I couldn't connect with the characters at all.

I felt completely disconnected from the characters. When I read a romance, I like to be sucked into the emotions of the characters and their responses to one another. Isn't that the whole point of a romance? I can forgive a lot, in terms of poor character development and major plot holes, if I can buy that emotions between the main characters. Unfortunately that was not the case here. I felt more like a casual observer, rather than being emotionally invested in these characters. Logically, I can understand their connection: as  Eliot and Desmond  they were both essentially outcasts from their societies. But emotionally, I totally missed the build-up of the connection and trust between them.

I had to force myself to keep reading hoping the story would grab me in some way, unfortunately it didn't.I think because the author tried too hard to force humor rather than just letting it flow naturally from the characters. I don't think that I will be reading anymore of her books



4/5 Review: Stranded With The Cyborg by Cara Bristol

Ten years ago Penelope Isabella Aaron had been a pain in Brock Mann’s you-know-what. Much has changed in a decade: “PIA” as he code-named her, has grown up and is about to attend her first Alliance of Planets summit conference, and Brock has been transformed into a cyborg after a near-fatal attack. Now a secret agent with Cyber Operations, a covert paramilitary organization, Brock gets called in, not when the going gets tough, but when the going gets impossible. So when he’s unexpectedly assigned to escort Penelope to the summit meeting, he balks at babysitting a prissy ambassador. But after a terrorist bombing, a crash landing on a hostile planet, and a growing attraction to his protectee, Operation: PIA may become his most impossible assignment yet. 

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I want to start by saying that I could not get into this book the first time I picked it up.  I set it aside because I didn't think I would enjoy it.  I was reading too many historical romances and figured I would give it another go after I got out of my historical romance mood.  

I must say that I am extremely happy I started to read it again.  I was so engrossed in this book I read it in a little over an hour and a half.  I loved that it was ten years later that they meet again.  Brock no longer saw her as the teen needing protection but as a woman.  Yes she still needed his protection but when love happens it happens.  

Pia's life is being threatened and it is Brock's job to protect her.  He saved her countless times but after defying death by mere seconds they find themselves talked on a deserted planet with the enemy still after them.  Will the planet's environment kill them our will they be found out by the enemy?  When will Brock confess to Pia that he is a cyborg?  Will their love survive the situation they are in?  

Definitely a must read for all the sci fi fans who love a good romance.  I will definitely be checking out more of Cara Bristol's books.

3/5 Review A SEAL Forever by Anne Elizabeth

Even a hero needs someone to believe in him...


Parkour instructor Maura Maxwell has always denied her attraction for her bachelor neighbor because she's seen his revolving door of women and doesn't want to become another notch on his belt. But the man who rescues her from a sudden storm isn't the one she thinks she knows-he's Master Chief Declan Swifton of SEAL Team Five, and he literally sweeps Maura off her feet.


Just as his teasing and tenderness start to work their way into Maura's heart, Declan and his team are called in for a dangerous op in the Middle East. The man who returns is facing the toughest fight of his life, and he needs Maura by his side more than ever...

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A SEAL Forever is the 3^rd book in the West Coast Navy SEALs series by Anne Elizabeth.  I believe you could read this as a stand alone book, if you havent read the other books in the series but to gain more of a connection to the characters it would probably be better to read in order.  This is the only book ive read in this series, but it was still easy to follow and didnt feel like there was a lot missing.

The story surrounds Maura Maxwell who is trying to rebuild her life after a terrible car accident.  She was going to be a career gymnast but everything changed with the crash.  Declan Swifton has spent his living and preparing for SEAL life.  To him, that is life until he rescues a drowning Maura and he starts to question his carefree life of keeping fit and one night women.

I found this story to be one of those cute little stories that you knew what was going to happen but the fun of it was watching it all unfold and seeing how they held each other up in the bad times and just how good they were together.  The dynamics of the book was a little on the soft side at times but still a great book to read.

4/5 Reviews: Rock My World: Anthology by Gracie Wilson, Ursula Sinclair, Shyla Colt, Leanore Elliott, Yvonne Nicolas, Charisma Knight, L.M. Pruitt, Angela Kay Austin, Izzibella Beau

9 stories.
Over 1000 pages long.
That will rock your world!
For limited time only 0.99 cents.

Title: Beautifully Destroyed- Beautifully Series
Author: Gracie Wilson
Tagline: Even something once destroyed can be beautiful again.

Title: The Prison Guard's Son- Young Guns Book 1
Author: Ursula Sinclair
Tagline: I can only be who I am.

Title: When Karma comes to call
Author: Shyla Colt
Tagline: What you give out is what you get back.

Title: Urban Legends
Author: Leanore Elliott
Tagline: Let it burn until the fire is out.

Title: Scorpion Tail (Part 1)
Author: Yvonne Nicolas
Tagline: Sex, Drugs, Rock n' Roll... and MURDER

Title: Damaged
Author: Charisma Knight
Tagline: Demons, dragons and dreams.

Title: Opening Interlude (Interlude Series) 

Author: L.M. Pruitt
Tagline: What do you do when love isn't enough?

Title: Melodee
Author: Angela Kay Austin
Tagline: A Song for Nora

Title:The Reason Why. Breathless Series.
Author: Izzibella Beau
Tagline: Everybody has one...a reason why.

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This is an anthology of nine Rock  romances.  All and all a wonderful compulation of modern authors giving you a taste of what they write and wetting your appetite for more.  They are all in all wonderfully written and a few are down right stunning.  I adored most of them.

Beautifully Destroyed  by Gracie Wilson - Is the touching story of Fate, she is trying to move on from her tragic childhood and is starting college far away from home.  She slowly lets her story out - it's heart breaking and you wonder at times if she can ever come back from the abuse she suffered as a child. She doesn't eat, she doesn't sleep and she doesn't like to be touched or to listen to music.   Cameron is a rock god, trying to sort his life out and ends up as Fate's roommate (unexpected male roomate).  Can Cam help Fate, turn herself around and not only learn to love herself but to love him.  In turn can Fate teach Cam that he is a good person and can they find their way together?  It's a beautifully told story, even with the touchy subjects involved.  It  will make you tear up now and again.

The Prison Guard's Son- Young Guns Book 1 by Ursula Sinclair - This one brings us the story of Pike, his Mother was in prison, his father a disgraced prison guard but he did his best to raise him alone after his mother died in prison.  Pike has moved on as much as he could and has made himself a wonderful life as a rock singer.  Eryn is a young lawyer that is in a practice with her cousins, they have a lucrative business with atheletes and she is trying to move some business into the entertainment industry.  First, up is Pike, signing him will bring alot of business into the firm.  However, early one morning she witnesses a woman being accosted in the street and attempts to help her.  When push comes to shove they men after this women take off.  Turns out Pike has shown up and helps her out.  When someone blows up her office and kills Eryn's administrative assistant, Pike takes matters into his own hands and works to protect her.  Turns out they have more in common then they ever knew.  

Urban Legends by Leanora Elliot - In high school Swade fell in love, she thought her life was perfect and suddenly - Vale  was gone said he wouldn't leave her but he did.  In a few brief months her life changed and she changed she became hard on the inside and changed her outside to match.  The band she and her brother were in started to take off.  The Urban Legends were going to become rock stars!  Vale has his own band now called Silken they are already established and rocking the world.  Just when Swade thinks her world couldn't get any better, they have a contract to tour and the elevator door opens and bam - Vale and Silken are the band they are opening for.  Tune in to find out why Vale left and see if he can win Swade's heart and body again.  

Scorpion Tail (Part 1) by Yvonne Nicolas -  Scorpian Tail is the story of Chase, Becca, Slice and MonaLisa, four people who come together to form a band - they are wild, rebellious and sing dark songs - their music brings them into the spotlight quickly.  When a murder is committed during one of their concerts, a young detective Toshiro Matsuda is determined to link the band to the murder.  MonaLisa attempts to distract Toshiro from finding out the bands sordid pasts, but finds it harder an harder to not be attracted to him and keep her secrets.  Toshiro is intrigued but will not be distracted from his mission - will they find love or will MonaLisa become the next victim?

When Karma Comes to Call by Shyla Colt - Rock Singer Karma Good is on the comeback trail after spending a long time in rehab attempting to overcome her addiction to Cocaine.  Things turn ugly and she is running for her life.  She runs into Arsen Smarts, a Slayer for a motor cycle club, he takes her under his protection and brings her to his boss to see if they can help her move forward with her career and make them a little money.   Add, in the lovely Chase and the sparks are flying between the 3.  Can Karma give herself to Arsen, and become a part of his biker lifestyle?  Can Arsen protect her from the people that are after her.  And how will the attraction that Chase and Karma have fit into the mix.  There is a few twists in this one that I didn't see coming and it's one hot ride!

Melodee by Angela Kay Austin - Melodee is a singer songwriter and she is missing the one thing in her life that she regrets - Riley.  Riley is the son of her friend Lucille and she knows they are meant for each other but they both have made mistakes with each other and have to find a way back to one another.

Opening Interlude by L. M. Pruitt - Bethany and Miles are off on the dream - Bethany's parents have paved the way for her in New York City - Miles folks can't give him the time of day.  They are trying to make it in the city that never sleeps, auditions that suck and people that aren't real.  Will they make it or fall apart and go back to their midwestern roots

The Reason Why. Breathless Series. by Izzibella Beau - This is the story of Alabama - a girl that has nothing left - her no good Mama is in jail again and she has no where to go until a friend of her mother's offers to take her in.  She goes off to another small town in hopes to make things better for herself.  Here she meets the friends two sons, Joshua and Hunter - they are rebellious young men, but good at heart.  Josh is a college student playing Lacrosse and Hunter has a band.  Who will win her heart?  

Damaged by Charisma Knight -  Robert is in a band called Meticulous Thunder, after years of playing two bit clubs they have signed a recording deal and are touring.  While his band is happy about this he isn't he wants to get back to his fiance Jade and settle down.   But, he has a secret habit that will ruin everything.  He gives his mother a note for Jade and leaves town to get help.  In the note he tells her he loves her but he is letting her go.  Can Robert get his life in order and will Jade still be there if he does?

If you like rock romance this is a great way to dip your toes in and get to know some of the best authors in the Rock genre this is definitly worth the time.  I have found a few new authors to read.  I do have to add that I recommend this one for the 18+ crowd - It is after all sex, drugs, and rock and roll!



5/5 Review: Edge of Danger by Katie Reus

 

When an assassin tries to kill undercover DEA agent Tucker Pankov the same week his boss is taken out, Tucker has good reason to be paranoid. And when other members of his elite team are not only targeted, but stripped of top-secret security clearance, Tucker has one shot at discovering who wants them dead—and why. So he kidnaps the only woman he thinks can save them.

Brilliant NSA analyst Karen Stafford doesn’t like being forced into anything, especially by someone she doesn’t trust. Yet after a hijacked US-owned drone starts attacking government installations resulting in mass casualties, Karen has to take Tucker’s side.  Now, two unlikely allies must unite to prevent an escalating and unthinkable terrorist conspiracy. But as Tucker and Karen grow intimate, they realize the conspiracy runs deep, and their enemies are closer than anyone realized.

**********

 

There was so much that happened in such a short amount of time that I didn't realize the initial time frame of when the Tyler's boss was murdered and when they captured the culprits behind the terrorist attacks was short.  It all happened within a few days.  During that time you lived a whole relationship between Tyler and Karen.  It amazes me how such a talented author can bring to life the world they create in their minds. 

After disposing of the assassins sent after them, Tyler and 3 other DEA agents were framed for the death of their boss as well as some terrorist attacks that were hitting major places.  Kidnapping Karen Stafford was never part of the plan but after not getting a response from the one man they knew could help they had no other choice but to try and get help from her to get a message to Wesley. 

Tucker wasn't looking for love and neither was Karen.  That didn't stop them from falling in love.  Karen, after hearing finding out that Tucker and his friends were being framed, decided to help clear their names and capture those who were responsible.  Saving each others lives was a top priority for them.

This was an incredibly written story filled with thrills, love, intrigue and so much more.  This is a definite must read.

 



4/5 Review: Born of Betrayal by Sherrilyn Kenyon

 

Years ago, family loyalty caused Fain Hauk to give up everything he loved: His military career. His planet. His fiancée. Even his name.
 
Now decades later, everything has changed. He's built a new life out of the ashes of his old, and he's vowed to never let anything threaten his loved ones again.
 
But when old enemies align themselves with new ones, he's caught in the middle of a brutal war. And when fate throws his former fiancée back into his world and she has her own agenda that includes taking his head for what he did to her years ago, more than just his life is at stake. The fate of the Ichidian universe and that of his brothers-in-arms hangs in the balance. Winner take all.
 
It's kill or be killed, and never has the battle been more fierce...

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Born of Betrayal is the 9th instalment in the League series by the talented Sherrilyn Kenyon. I have been a long time fan of Sherrilyn Kenyon's work and she was also one of the very first authors I read in this genre that has taken me to so many wild and imaginative places and I feel I owe her so much for that.

 

Ms Kenyon has wrote many series and although I have loved each of them the League series has always been by far my very favourite, there was just something about this series that I could never wait to devour each book that came out.  Born of Betrayal was such a busy book with so many story lines going on that I would have to say that this book is one you need to read the previous books before tackling.  

 

This book is supposed to centre on Fain and his lost love Gaylene and her son, Talyn.  The story follows on from previous books that explained Talyn's life.  If you were a long term fan it was easy to see who Talyn's father was going to be and I loved the storyline these three shared.   It was believable in every aspect of how they felt when they were reunited and each step from that moment on.

 

There were also many other story lines in this book that all interconnected and we were able to discover different sides to certain characters.  We had to chance to hear about many of our old favourites from previous books and catch up to what has been happening so in ways it was like a family reunion without the boring bits as they were very much part of the centre of the story.  Towards the end of the book we get a glimpse of our next story leads too; not a very big but just that small couple of sentences that show exactly who will be involved.

The ending wasnt as drawn out as I have grown to expect, but I guess that just gives us more to wait for on the next book.  Grab this book today, but in my opinion read the rest in the series first.  This book has all the action and sexiness of all the league books but is definetly not a stand alone book.

 



5/5 Review: Night Blaze by Donna Grant

 

That one simple kiss slayed him as nothing in his very, very long life had ever done. It physically hurt him to release her and turn his back on everything she offered, but it was for the best.

A KING WHO WALKS IN DARKNESS
 
The Rhys who has existed for centuries is gone. Stripped of his ability to shapeshift, Rhys can no longer embody the majestic, powerful dragon he was at birth. Cut off from his heritage by one of his own, this Dragon King must remain a man, haunted by demons who torment his every waking moment. The darkness would swallow him whole...except a woman so beautiful and haunted becomes the one beam of light in his world...

A DESIRE THAT WILL NOT BE DENIED

Lily Ross is taking the first step in building a new life for herself. Still reeling from a relationship that nearly broke her spirit, Lily is wary of her attraction to brawny, brooding Rhys. The passion burning so brightly between them is a potent temptation, but any entanglement is destined to end in disaster. Yet when a spectre from Lily's past threatens their growing bond, Rhys is forced to choose with his heart, or lose this woman who has become his one chance at salvation...in Donna Grant's newest Dark Kings novel, Night's Blaze.

**********

 

This book has action, adventure, paranormal aspects ( Dragons, Warriors, Druids, and Fae). The characters are what you would expect, hot, sexy, alpha males. I did not consider most of the women wimpy, to me they seemed to be well written. Not too over the top, but just right for what their professions are written as. This is the sixth book in the Dark Kings series, but the author puts enough of the back story into each book, that you don't have to read the others. I would recommend it, though.

The Dark Kings books tie in with the Dark Sword/Dark Warrior books. The Dragon Kings showed up in the last several of the Dark Sword books, while the Warriors showed up in this book. The continuation and cross over of the series is really good. This is a stand alone book, but you will get much more enjoyment out of it if you at least read the first three Dark Kings Novellas, Dark Craving, Night's Awakening, and Dawn's Desire.

This book took me only hours to read. The events leading up to Rhys' s story have held me captive and intrigued. Getting into his head kept me turning the pages. The way he helps Lily build herself back up is admirable and enchanting. Rhys' s story is definitely my favorite. I thought I had everything figured out, that the story would continue as the others have, but I was sadly and pleasantly mistaken. At the climax I felt as if my heart had been ripped out. There have been some close calls, but none as close as in this book. Whether you're reading through the series or just starting, this is one story you won't want to miss!!

 

 



5/5 Review: Second Chance with a Billionaire by Janice Maynard

Former ski champion Conor Kavanagh enjoys a challenge. And he's encountered no challenge more arousing than Ellie Porter. Once, she broke his heart. Now that she's back in town? He can't seem to stay away… 
But Ellie has changed. Widowed, with a baby, she has responsibilities—and secrets—weighing her down. Still, his desire for her is undeniable. Surely, he can have her without giving up his heart—or his daredevil ways? He's willing to risk it all to find out…

**********

Janice Maynard brings us Second Chance with the Billionaire. It's the story of Ellie and Conor. Ellie life is in pieces, her husband has died, her brother is seriously injured in the same accident. She is a single mother and her life is in pieces. She reaches out to Conor Kavanagh, in an effort to save her brother, a promising young doctor that is meant to save the world. 

She returns to her childhood home to help her ailing grandfather and perhaps find some peace and healing in the place they once called home, and with people they once called friends. 

This is a heart-stirring second chance romance. Ms. Maynard's characters are strong, well-rounded and believable. (you want them to be your friends and family). Her writing keeps you engaged and participating in the story.

4/5 Review: Sacrifice by Kate Pearce

 

 

Awaiting execution on a foreign planet, Anna Lee has nothing left to lose — until Commander Rehz Akran offers her a chance to escape her fate. Anything is better than death, but when her training for Akran’s mysterious mission begins, the brutality is hard to take . . . especially since Anna has no idea what the workouts, beatings, and endless sexual demands are preparing her for.

Rehz Akran doesn’t deal with failure. He’s determined that his last trainee will survive her immersion in an unimaginably alien world and return alive — even if it means she’ll hate him forever. He needs to stay detached, but his new recruit makes that impossible. Soon he’s willing to defy his own training for a chance to forge a true connection with Anna.

It’s Rehz’s job to teach Anna to survive as a Tribute. And if she does, it’s his task to help her overcome the trauma of the experience. But this time he isn’t doing it to save his planet. This time he’s doing it for love.

 

Kate Pearce’s Sacrifice is a read that may be triggers for some, so read with caution.  That being said, this book is a really good read.  Commander Rehz Akran is a military man desperately trying to get through his last mission so that he can retire from the Tribute program.  He is a trainer who was a tribute himself so he knows what the trainees are going to experience.  This drives him to be hard on his trainees so that they can pass what the Ungrich have in store for them.  For his last mission he picks Anna Lee, a woman awaiting execution.  She is from Earth, but no one believes her and act as if they never heard of it.  When she is approached by Commander Akran, her survival instincts kick in and she agrees to become a tribute.  As they are trained to endure what they are expected to go through, Anna and Rehz begin to form a bond that will help them survive what they must endure as a tribute.  The training is basically torture, and only the very strong have the capacity to pass through the program.  While Rehz is training Anna they have to deal with the presence of an enemy that is close to home.  Palk is a sadistic man who enjoys the power of his position and makes sure that everyone under his power knows that he can use them as he see fits.  Anna sees first hand the abuse that Rehz still suffers whenever Palk is on the training grounds.  Seeing that softens her towards him and allows more feelings to develop between them, other than Anna’s need to kill her trainer.  Rehz believes that he is not good enough for anyone to love because of all of the tributes he has trained and lost.  He pushes Anna away, but she fights for him.  I actually enjoyed this story, once I got past the brutality of the training and the world they lived in.

 

 

4/5 Review: Falling Fast by Tina Wainscott

 

There’s no one Pax Sullivan wants to run into less than Gemma Thornton. Back in high school, she revved his heart more than street racing. But she picked his clean-cut brother over him—only to accuse Blake of an unforgivable crime. Eventually the charges were dropped and Gemma left town, but the hard feelings lingered . . . along with Pax’s gnawing “what-ifs.” Seven years later, just as he quits the police force to open a racetrack, Gemma’s back—and their chemistry is more combustible than ever.

If it were up to her, Gemma would never lay eyes on another Sullivan. She hates them, and they hate her—even Pax, who just so happens to be fixing up her father’s B&B. But the more time she spends with the lean, hard-bodied ex-cop at the inn and on the track, the more Gemma sees that Pax is nothing like his brother. Despite their anguished history, she’s tempted to take their relationship into high gear . . . if she can face the past and risk her heart.

 

**********

 



The second in the Falling Fast series although it stands perfectly on it's own. In this installment we get to know Pax and Gemma - Pax had it bad for Gemma in High School but she chose to date his brother. But, after making allegations of being raped she left town and didn't look back. Her father is involved in an accident and she feels she must come home and keep his B&B going while he recovers.

I found the book a little harder to get into then the first in the series but stick with it and you will enjoy it. It was great to see how Gemma grew while dealing with the issues she left behind and how Pax although he wants not to be he can't find the feelings he has. 

Ms. Wainscott deals with the touchy subject of rape very well and although at times you may think how can they go from hate to love so quickly. Her characters are strong and the plot line keeps moving forward. If you are in the market for a second chance romance this one is worth the time.

4/5 Review: Evermore (A Wicked Tale) by Rebecca Royce

How is love possible when all is lost?

Werewolf Homer Prinze wants nothing more than to complete his assignment and get out of the wasteland that is the city. The dragons have destroyed everything, but a cry catches his attention. Before he knows it, he has met his mate. She needs his help and he is going to give it to her.

Camille is no one's idea of great mate. Pregnant and alone, she is scarred and not looking for a companion in the hard world in which she lives.

But when Homer needs her, she will risk everything to bring him home.

About the Author: Rebecca Royce is the mother of three and married to her best friend. Moving from the NYC area to Austin, Texas, she is trying to eat her way through Texas barbecue.

Anything can happen, believe that it will.

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Evermore is the fourth installment in the Dragon War series by Rebecca Royce. This is Homers story, an elite soldier recently home from the long Dragon Wars. On a trip into the city on assignment from his Alpha he hears the distress cries of a woman and follows the sound into an alley. This is where he discovers his Mate fending off two angry werewolves. The one thing you don't do is mess with an Werewolf mates,his very Pregnant mate.

I read and enjoyed the previous books in this series this, so I was looking forward to reading this story, but I wasn't prepared for how much I would enjoy this one. There's a great deal more plot, character development, and conflict than I'd expect to see in an paranormal short, especially one this length. I was only going to take a quick look and read for a few minutes before I had to do something else, and I keep hitting the page button on my kindle until I was finished.

I think Rebecca Royce hits the exact right line between Urban Fantasy and Romance here. While the love scenes are not as abundant as they have been in previous books, Camille and Homer do manage to find a way to have very hot sex. The scenes that are the most moving to me are those in which Homer is protecting Camille. He is so easy in talking about his feelings for her, so comfortable in his commitment to their relationship. It never fails to make me swoon, and there are several of those scenes in Evermore. I love seeing Camille relax into their relationship, accepting Homer's desire to protect her in a way she hasn't in the past. Here, they really are working as a team to overcome the obstacles in their path, and it works. Rather than making them dull, having the angst come from outside their relationship allows them to grow closer, making them seem more mature and grounded. Their passion for each other shines with a new depth as their trust in each other's feelings solidifies.

5/5 Review: Claimed by Elle Kennedy

 

After a devastating war decimated most of the world, Hudson Lane has only known the oppressive life under her own father’s tyranny. She finally escapes, branding herself an outlaw and hunted by the Enforcers. Her best chance at survival is Connor Mackenzie, an aggressively sensual fugitive who opens her eyes to the wicked possibilities of a world without rules.

As the leader of a band of outlaw fighters, Connor can’t resist the beautiful stranger who asks for his protection. Despite his reservations, he agrees to introduce her to a whole new way of life. But when Connor discovers Hudson’s connection to the enemies of liberty, he wonders how far he can trust the woman who has abandoned all inhibitions to challenge every forbidden desire.

 

 

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Claimed by Elle Kennedy is the first book I have read from this author and to be honest I wasn't sure what to expect, but I wasn't disappointed.

End of the world books I usually find quite hard to immerse myself into but this one defeated the odds and can say that I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.

In my opinion most of the characters throughout the book should be considered main characters but the story does focus on the love between appointed leader of the outlaws, Connor and the new comer, Hudson.  Their chemistry together is on fire!

Hudson has came from the city where life is opposite to the outside world.  Her reason for leaving is top secret and guards it close to her heart even though she knows that one day she will need to divulge what it is.  Anyone could take one look at Hudson and believe she is soft and inexperienced to the wild world outside the comfort of the city, but really she is so much more.  She is tough, honest (even if she holds a deadly secret), compassionate and most of all loyal.

Connor never wanted to be leader to his group of outlaws but circumstances and loyalty from the others in the group made him the leader never the less.  He is sexy as hell, fierce, worldly and loyal but he too has a secret he has kept from his best friends.

When Connor and Hudson's lives crash together its a moment neither of them dreamt would take them to the place they need most in the world.  Enforcers are after them and they are in turn after the Enforcers but in a race against time there can only be one winner.  It's up to Hudson and Connor to learn to forgive and to trust enough to get through the hell hole they have entered.

As I said, this story has a bunch of main characters and you can not forget them as they all form such a storyline that I believe its as important as Hudson and Connor.  Rylan, Pike, Xander and Kade all play their part in the story and I can see their stories forming already for the next instalment and I can not wait!

Although I thoroughly recommend this book to anyone and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book I do have to give a warning to fellow readers.  Claimed isn't what I would call an erotic novel but it does have a lot of very graphic sex scenes that might not be for the faint hearted.  I personally loved them, but I like to give a warning for those that aren't used to of the so in your face sex scenes that are in this book.



4/5 Review: One Life by A.J. Pine

 

In the latest from the author of One Night, tragedy causes a young woman to struggle to keep her head above water, and the only one who can help her is the guy who’s been in the friend zone for the past year . . .

 

 Every time life throws Zoe Adler a curve ball, she changes her appearance. Freshmen year—after almost following in her mother’s alcoholic footsteps—she said good-bye to her blonde, girl-next-door image and opted for jet black hair and piercings galore. After her brother Wyatt’s death, she escapes to the city to teach a summer art program for kids. Her black hair goes blue, and she finds solace in the arms of a longtime friend, in his heart, and in his bed—but her guilt makes her unable to accept the love he wants to give.

 

 Spock might be the guy to save Zoe. But when she learns the truth about his past, the edge she’s teetered on since losing Wyatt drops out from under her. The girl who kept it together for everyone finally falls apart. Now Zoe must choose between drowning in guilt about Wyatt or asking for help. But even if she gets the help she needs, Spock may not be waiting for her when she’s ready to let love in.

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One Life is the second installment in the Only You series by A. J. Pine. I will start with it reads well on it's own but I felt as if I was missing an attachment to the main characters in the start of the book.

 

Zoe is full of hidden emotions and tradegy. She hides in herself and doesn't know how to deal with all the emotions and hurdles that have been thrown at her. Why does she change her hair color so often? How much of herself can she lose before she isn't recognizable even to herself? I found myself sobbing for her hopelessness several times.

 

Zack is a friend of Zoe's deceased brother who is at a crossroads in his life as well. Zack is a musician but is looking for something. When he and Zoe meet again after Wyatt dies. Can Zack get under Zoe's skin and help her deal with life instead of taking on everyone's problems but never dealing with her own?

 

Although, the book is a relatively short it is an emotional ride and I had to put it down several times. A. J. deals with the deep feelings of anxiety and loss beautifully and keeps the story moving forward. If you are looking for a well written character driven - New Adult Romance then this is more then worth it.

5/5 Review: Dark Alpha's Claim by Donna Grant

 

There is no escaping a Reaper. I am an elite assassin, part of a brotherhood that only answers to Death. And when Death says your time is up, I am coming for you...

 

My whole existence is based on taking what Death wants. Born to eliminate Fae guilty of unforgivable crimes, my reckless, wild nature makes me the perfect assassin to carry out Death's bidding. I've seen more sinister and violent dealings than anyone could ever imagine. But it was the sight of her face that stopped me cold. I've never wanted a woman-never mind a human-so badly; never felt my heart, hardened by death, burn brighter and hotter until it burst into flames. She is everything I desire. The kind of woman that compels you to stake your claim on her, to let the world know that she's yours. A Reaper saving her life will only attract danger, but I vow to protect her at all costs from the Fae that hunt her, and keep safe the woman who has claimed me, body and soul.

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Baylon is a fae reaper in the human world trying to keep his identity a secret and complete the missions he's given, however his next mission is a bit hard for him to swallow. Especially when he falls head over heels for Jordyn Patterson. Jordan is a half fae who doesn't know what she is, but finds herself obsessed in knowing everything their is to know about the Fae, and she's about to get the surprise of her life! With her life now in danger,  she must decide if love is worth the ultimate risk. 

 

This is the first time I've read anything by Donna Grant and I really enjoyed her style of writing. The story flowed well and I loved the characters. The instant pull between Baylon and Jordyn is intriguing and you get pulled in learning about it along with them. 

 

The dangerous guessing game of who's the ultimate "bad guy" has you guessing along with the rest of the reapers and there are surprises at every turn. I'm definitely ready for the next book in this new series and think this was a great one to start! 

 

The only thing that confused me was the name of the book. Normally the term "Alpha" is used for werewolves and shifters, but that is not the case in this book. And I understand the term means an alpha male, but the title still threw me a bit. Other than that I loved the book and can't wait for the next one!