Thursday, October 31, 2013

Light in Mourning (Mourning #2) by Adriane Leigh

Light in Mourning  (Mourning #2) by Adriane Leigh
 
This is an adult contemporary romance (Rated NC-17)
 
 ♥♥♥♥♥
(Five Lightning Hearts)
 
 
Book Summary
 
They say that madness is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results...but what happens when the very person that brought your heart back to life has the ability to shatter it with one confession?

After an explosive affair left their hearts battered and scarred, Georgia and Tristan are trying for a fresh start. She is determined to take it slow and not repeat the mistakes of the past, while Tristan is willing to throw caution to the wind as long as he has his dark-haired girl in his life...and in his bed.

But Georgia and Tristan can't shelter their love from the outside world, and the moments of exquisite passion they share aren't enough to sustain the relationship. When scars from the past resurface—will their hearts meld together as one? Or will outside forces tear them apart, leaving an empty shell where love and passion once thrived?
 
 
My Review
 
This author knows how to put the H in hot which makes my husband very happy. ;)
I love when a book does a POV from the guy’s POV. That is when the story isn’t a retelling of another story. That I don’t like. It’s always great to get into the mind of a bad boy, especially one who has it bad. (I kinda like that pun, lol)
Like the beach, this story is warm and romantic in a way that makes you want to look at the stars and dream. Emotions run all over the place in this book which shows the authors ability to get to you, your heart and make you feel.
At the dawn of a new day, two hearts become one, only to be tried and tested in every way. It is in the light that they will no longer mourn the loss of each other but fill the pages with words every reader will enjoy.
My book boyfriend is Tristan.
 

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*Disclaimer - I am not the owner of this picture. I found it on the web for causal fun use on my blog for which I receive no compensation. If this picture belongs to you (you are the copyright owner) please let me know and I will remove it.

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

Endless Knight (The Arcana Chronicles #2) by Kresley Cole

Endless Knight  (The Arcana Chronicles #2) by Kresley Cole
 
This is a young adult dystopian novel (RATED NC-17)
 
 ♥♥♥♥
(Four Jackson Hearts)
 
 
Book Summary
 
In this seductive follow-up to Poison Princess, #1 New York Times bestselling author Kresley Cole takes us deeper into the dark world of the Arcana Chronicles.

Shocking Secrets

Evie has fully come into her powers as the Tarot Empress, and Jack was there to see it all. She now knows that the teens who've been reincarnated as the Tarot are in the throes of an epic battle. It's kill or be killed, and the future of mankind hangs in the balance.

Unexpected Allies

With threats lurking around every corner, Evie is forced to trust her newfound alliance. Together they must fight not only other Arcana, but also Bagmen zombies, post-apocalyptic storms, and cannibals.

Gut-Wrenching Treachery

When Evie meets Death, things get even more complicated. Though falling for Jack, she's drawn to the dangerous Endless Knight as well. Somehow the Empress and Death share a history, one that Evie can't remember—but Death can't forget.
 
 
My Review

It’s very important to note first that although I appreciated the author keeping this book real, I think the level of detail given to the sex scenes and there were about one and a half, was a bit much for a book geared towards teens. In fact, I think she forgot who her audience was when describing, as it read like an adult erotica book. (and I read enough of those to know)
The other thing was as I enjoyed the first 25% or so of the book. Afterwards, the book really dragged on unnecessarily. I don’t think a lot was accomplished in the book during most of it.
SPOILERS - below
I have to say, I pretty sure I figured out several things still unrevealed including one about Jackson. And although I did sympathize with Death, I couldn’t care about him like I did Jackson. I also think that Evie crossed several lines even though she “stopped” short of the deed, that line was already crossed and betrayal had already occurred.
END OF SPOILER
Audio Review
Emma Galvin did an excellent job with the narration.
Overall, I did enjoy and look forward to the next book.

My book boyfriend Jackson.


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*Disclaimer - I am not the owner of this picture. I found it on the web for causal fun use on my blog for which I receive no compensation. If this picture belongs to you (you are the copyright owner) please let me know and I will remove it.

Tuesday, October 29, 2013

The Return (The Raie'Chaelia, #3) by Melissa Douthit Tour Post, Interview and GIVEAWAY


The Return (The Raie'Chaelia, #3) by Melissa Douthit
 
This is a YA fantasy novel
 
 
Blurb...
 
The Return — for readers age 13 and up.

Story Summary

After the fall from the Maaldan cliff, Chalice is reunited with her friends on a journey that takes them to the coastline of Ielieria. Little do Vlaad and his Fierain know what is in store for them as, bit by bit, their plans are thwarted by this blond-haired, blue-eyed beauty.

The small band of rebels then travels across the Realm, preparing it for war, while Chalice herself is brewing plans of her own that may just land her in the hot seat. What will happen when she returns her father to the throne? What will happen when he finds out what she has done? And … what will happen once Dar’Maalda learns of the rebels’ location?

In the third and final novel of the trilogy, The Legend of the Raie’Chaelia, you find out. It is a dramatic finish to an epic story of action, adventure, betrayal, forgiveness and love.
 
Interview....
 
Welcome Melissa Douthit
 
 
1.  What was your inspiration for this story?
I’m not really sure.  I knew I wanted to write a fantasy story about a heroine who discovers who she is, but I also wanted to make it different as well.  I think a lot of my life experiences in life have gone into this story, like my jobs, the research I’ve done, all the reading I’ve done by great authors.
2.  What is your current project you are working on?
I’ve had so many ideas for new books.  Some came to me when I was finishing up The Raie’Chaelia.  Whenever I get an idea for a new book, I write it down and put it in its own file folder on my computer, hoping to revisit it later.  I have about 10+ folders like that, so I’m trying to choose which one to pursue first.  Right now, it’s a toss up between a love story/fantasy set in the Old Norse world, a paranormal crime thriller, and a teen romance that deals with the serious issues of high school bullying and teen suicide.
3.  Will you have any more releases this year?
Probably not this year.  More likely in 1014.
4.  What is your favorite thing about writing?
For me, writing is an escape.  When I write, I get to escape into an entirely new world and experience the lives of the many characters that pop into my head and tell me their story. 
5.  What is the one thing you want people to know about you?
I write as a hobby.  I don’t do it for money or fame or awards.  It is something I like to do in my spare time.  I can’t think of anything better to do than to escape into a another world that is at times better and more interesting than mine.
 
Website:
Book page:
Amazon author page:
Buy links to The Return:
 
 
Sponsored by Author
 
 
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Monday, October 28, 2013

Anything He Wants: Castaway #4 (Anything He Wants: Castaway #4) by Sara Fawkes

Anything He Wants: Castaway #4  (Anything He Wants: Castaway #4) by Sara Fawkes
 
This is an adult contemporary erotic romance novella
 
 ♥♥♥♥
(Four Lucas Hearts)
 
 
Book Summary
 
Forgiveness is sought and deadly deadly decisions made in the electrifying climax of the Anything He Wants: Castaway series!

They say the sins of the father are passed down on the successive generations, and no more so than in the Hamilton family. What little hope remains in Lucy's heart is shattered by events and the trauma of a madman's pursuit. Outmatched and outsmarted at every turn, Lucy will be forced to make a terrible choice that will have lasting consequences, no more so than with her heart. For in her hands lies the fate of two men, both of whom she loves, and she must decide which will live, and which will die.

With no light at the end of this dark tunnel, will Lucy be able to choose the right path? Or will she be destined to bring down the Hamilton family legacy?
 
 
My Review
 
I was a bit disappointed with this installment. The way this series began it read like an erotic romance. The way the series ended, it read like a mystery thriller. While, I thoroughly enjoy the later, (some of my favorite authors being in that genre John Grisham, Patricia Cornwell, and Sue Grafton), that’s not exactly what I signed up for when I bought into this series.
My expectations were erotica romance. And the last few installments surely lacked on that point.
However, as much as the hospital scene with Lucy and a weapon made me laugh and roll my eyes at how ridiculous it was; I still enjoyed the installment overall that I didn’t regret reading this installment series as a whole.
The epilogue or the final chapter, I can’t remember was sweet. However, I copped to that conclusion l0ong before that chapter.
Overall, it was a good read. And I have to give it to my boy even though I love Jeremiah.
My book boyfriend is Lucas.

 
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Friday, October 25, 2013

Allegiant (Divergent #3) by Veronica Roth Review & ALTERNATE ENDING


Allegiant  (Divergent #3) by Veronica Roth
 
This is a young adult dystopian novel (Rated PG-13)
 
 
(One Lonely Heart)
 
 
Book Summary
 
One choice will define you.

What if your whole world was a lie?
What if a single revelation—like a single choice—changed everything?
What if love and loyalty made you do things you never expected?


The faction-based society that Tris Prior once believed in is shattered—fractured by violence and power struggles and scarred by loss and betrayal. So when offered a chance to explore the world past the limits she’s known, Tris is ready. Perhaps beyond the fence, she and Tobias will find a simple new life together, free from complicated lies, tangled loyalties, and painful memories.

But Tris’s new reality is even more alarming than the one she left behind. Old discoveries are quickly rendered meaningless. Explosive new truths change the hearts of those she loves. And once again, Tris must battle to comprehend the complexities of human nature—and of herself—while facing impossible choices about courage, allegiance, sacrifice, and love.

Told from a riveting dual perspective, Allegiant, by #1 New York Times best-selling author Veronica Roth, brings the Divergent series to a powerful conclusion while revealing the secrets of the dystopian world that has captivated millions of readers in Divergent and Insurgent.
 
 
 
My Review

Another disappointing series ender and I had high hopes. Let’s just say that I understand an author creativity and imagination are their own. However, at some point you must consider the reader. Maybe you don’t change your storyline, but you can consider if that is the ending is the only way to achieve the stories goals.

I will say my rating is emotional and not the author technical skill at crafting a well told story. It just was too much for me to bare not to show my displeasure in my rating.
I can’t possibly say more without spoilers, so if you haven’t read yet, don’t unless you want SPOILERS.
SPOILERS – below this line
I actually like the dual POV. That didn’t bother me much. And I can understand why Tris had to be the one to go in and release the memory serum. That is in her character.
However, David shooting and killing Tris didn’t further the story in anyway. I believe if an author decides to kill off an important character, there ought to be good reason. This felt very much like Andrea Cremer killing off a boy to solve a love triangle in the Nightshade series instead of letting the girl make a decision. This act by an author makes a reader reluctant to read anything in the future by him or her. NO one wants this devastation after following a series for so long. One year in between books.
So what happened after Tris’s death that made it necessary to kill her? Well let’s see. The troops didn’t rally to achieve a goal they weren’t sure of until her untimely death. Four/Tobias didn’t become a better man or make significant changes in his life as a result of her death. So what was the point? Shock value?
Some might say it was a way to show how one overcomes grief. That had already been achieved with Tris parents’ death, Uriah, Will, etc. This didn’t need to happen to show that.
Everything that came after Tris’s death still could have been achieved with her remaining alive. Personally, I wish they both died like Romeo and Juliet or they both lived rather than one to remain behind to grieve.
On a side note, I hate when author’s leave things open. Did Tris and Tobias have sex in that room or what? I can’t believe the author was cowardly enough to leave that for the reader to decide but had no problem giving Tris the ax.
In the end, I can’t support this series by ever recommended it. Nor will I see the movie in theatres or buy the DVD. I waited a couple of years to read this series as each book was released. I can wait however long to see the movie (if I still care by then) on cable as a part of my normal cable bill.
Audio Review
Emma Galvin and Aaron Stanford narrated. Aaron Stanford did an amazing job. Emma did a reasonably good job except I had a hard time discerning between Tris and Four in her narration which is quite a problem.
If you hated the ending as much as I did, I wrote on the fly about a half an hour after I finished an alternate ending. I don’t claim to be an author or Veronica Roth. My words are constructed half as well. And I may have series grammar or spelling issues. However, you will get an idea how with out much change I have altered the ending with Tris still alive. Much of the ending can remain the same. I didn’t spell out parts that were in the story. I only put the parts that I would change. You’ll get the idea. Enjoy. (my book boyfriend pic is below)


FAN FICITION ALTERNATE ENDING


TOBIAS

 “Where is everyone?” Amar says….

I see Cara….. That’s not what concerns me… “What is it,” I say… “Where is Tris?”…

Her eyes fill with tears and a tale spills from her mouth that I don’t want to believe. “Where is she?” I demand again and she turns shuffling through the halls with what looks like pain in each of her steps. I long to run. I need to see with my own eyes, but it takes forever and no time at all to get there.

Tris is lying in a bed as still as stone. Her pallor is pasty and grey. Just like Uriah, she looks as if she is sleeping. I reach for her hand and it is warm. The coma they put her in to stop the swelling on her brain could save her life but at what cost.

I am sad and angry, pissed and hurt. She may not live and for what? A brother who would have let her die? I want to yell at her and break up with her for doing this to me again. It didn’t matter she survived the death serum. It didn’t matter she saved us all… again by releasing the memory serum. She was damn lucky David wasn’t a good shot. He hit her in the chest causing one of her lungs to collapse. The other bullet hit her in the leg which was the worst blow. She collapsed and hit her head hard on the edge of the box and then the corner of the table as she went down. We know this by the evidence of her blood that stained those areas. And no one is sure she will survive.
~
Several days later…

We stand around Tris bed. The doctors have stopped administering the drug that has kept Tris from us. Work continues around the compound to teach those survivors the new truth that will stop the propaganda about “damaged genres” and I could care less. I haven’t slept well since coming back and finding the girl I love on the brink of death. Christiana has offered to hold vigil for me but I have refused just in case. Just in case she wakes up. And I want to be there when and not if she does. I haven’t eaten much except for a muffin or sandwich someone brings to me every now and then. And I only eat it because what use will I be to Tris if I’m dead from lack of eating or drinking.

Although the drug had been stopped several hours ago, the doctors said it would take time before she would wake up. And when her fingers flutter in my hand, I reluctantly called the others to let them know she was coming around. Part of me wanted to be selfish and keep this just for myself, but that’s not who I am.

When her eyes flutter open, I feel tears in my own. I blink them back hastily, not wanting to miss a moment through blurred vision. I long to be the first person she sees. I still hold her small hand not able to let that go. It’s been a constant reminder that she is still alive.

She blinks and her eyes don’t land on me. I try not being jealous of that. She surveys the circle of us, Christiana, Cara, Zeke, Caleb and me. When her eyes find mine I wait… and wait. Nothing. There is no recognition of me in her eyes. She looks back at Caleb and says his name.

The doctors who were huddled on her right side start taking her vitals. I can see they want us to leave but know we will not. I will not.

“Beatrice,” Caleb replies.

She gives him a small smile. Then it fades when her eyes drift to her hand, the one that I still hold. I realize that my grip has tightened in my fear of what her next words might be. I let go a little because I don’t want to hurt her.

She looks up at me before snagging her hand away. “Who are you?” And my world falls away.
~
I’m not sure how much time has passed. Tris doesn’t remember anyone but her brother. I want to laugh at the unfairness of it all. It was because of him she was in this state. But that doesn’t matter. The doctors explain that she has damage to her short term memory. And by short term they didn’t mean a few hours or days. They meant a few years. She doesn’t remember the choosing ceremony or me. She doesn’t remember her parents’ deaths.

Caleb has been the one to explain these things to her and not me. She doesn’t know or trust me yet and my heart continues to break.

Christiana has tried to be a friend to me. She’s even tried to explain that Tris will come around and that a love like ours won’t die. I want to believe her, but Tris won’t even allow me to visit. She is grieving again over the loss of her parents. And even though Cara has been explaining her past and me, she has refused to see me yet.
~
Two and a half years later

“How is your mother?” Tris asked.

“Fine, I guess.” It is weird to have my mother back or that we will share space.

Those thought die away as I look back at the girl. She is still small but her color is back. She looks a lot healthier.

It took a long time for Tris to allow me to get to know her. She is the same but different. She is the same with her determination. At the compound, once she was released from the hospital, she requested to see all the footage they had on her life including seeing her parents’ death. Still she didn’t seek me out even though I was sure she had to have seen our moments together.

I’d come close to taking the memory serum, not wanting to see Tris and not be with her. But Christiana save me from that fate. She had been right.  It would have been a cowardly way out. So biding my time with calm over the city, I persisted in my pursuit of her. We went on our first date a couple of months ago and it was strange but nice. She got to know me and I’m getting to know her. I don’t get to see her every day because she’s chosen to be a part of the police force which fits. I’m not at all surprised by her choice. However, she’s guarded with her heart. She’s only allowed me a hand full of dates. Part of me thinks that Christiana has convinced her to give me a chance. And I resent that she’s allowed Christiana and Caleb back in her life but not me. But the other part of me doesn’t care. I believe that if she loved me once, she will love me again.

With her standing so close, I long to pull her close and kiss her. I know better though.

Today, I’ve convinced her to go on this date because I’ve told her I wanted to face a fear. I’ve also explained that she loved doing this. That fierce nature of hers burns bright. And I’ve missed it. It’s been a few weeks since I seen her. She’s been busy doing this and that as she explained in those very words. As much as that bothered me, I’m still trying to be patient.

The wind whips around us as we stand on the platform. We are alone now, our friends down below.

I turn to look at her. Her small frame eclipses mine. Hers full of wonder and excitement. Mine lacking courage and full of fear.

She smiles and it feels like she hasn’t forgotten us. But I know different. “You’re going to love it,” she says with conviction. She’s holding the contraption that is the only thing that will save me from sure death. “Go face first.”

I still and turn back to face her after looking out over the daunting ledge. She steps over to me. On auto pilot, I lean down and into her because there was something in her words that takes me back to a past I thought I lost. I pause when I catch myself. I don’t want to spook her or stop this moment which feels like it may change things forever.

In a voice that is hesitant yet strong, she says, “Only Four…” And I’m not sure she is referring to my name or to the number of fears I had. “Only you… I’m beginning to remember.” Her mouth presses to mine in a kiss I thought I’d never feel again. I am so stunned, I barely hear her explain that her memories had started to come back in pieces. Although the doctors had explained that might be a possibility, with so much time passing, I didn’t think it would ever happen.

“Get in,” she says with a grin as bright as the sun.

And I do. Despite it all, this feels like a new beginning. It finally feels like I can move on. It finally feels right. And face forward, I zip line to my friends to await our future, too await the girl of my dreams. And nothing seems impossible. And it feels like I’m flying. And I am. I’m a high with the knowledge that life doesn’t have to end when bad things happen. Persistence, patience, kindness and understanding can get us all through anything and everything if we will let it. And I look back to chance a glance at the girl who changed my life forever.


My book boyfriend Tobias (as if it would be anyone else)


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*Disclaimer - I am not the owner of this picture. I found it on the web for causal fun use on my blog for which I receive no compensation. If this picture belongs to you (you are the copyright owner) please let me know and I will remove it.

Thursday, October 24, 2013

Eden-East (Eden #4) by Janelle Stalder

 
Eden-East  (Eden #4) by Janelle Stalder
 
This is a YA/NA fantasy novel. (Rated R)
 
 ♥♥♥♥♥
(Five Eden Hearts)
 
 
Book Summary
 
New life, new deaths, and truths revealed. Everything ends now.

In the final installment of the Eden series, the King’s army prepares for their biggest battle yet. Aiden and his friends set out to find Aziz in his hidden mountain fortress and bring the war in Eden to an end. But secrets are being discovered along the way, and the weight of them could ruin lives. Aiden is coping with loss and the need for vengeance, as well as changes in himself he doesn’t quite understand. Thousands of lives are depending on him to stop Aziz once and for all, and this time Aiden is more than ready and confident he’ll be the one to do it. The stakes are higher than he ever anticipated on his journey east.

Elisa is embarking on a new phase of her life. She has the man she loves beside her, their group of friends have become stronger, and the end of war is in sight. Now she just needs to see it through so she can finally have her happily ever after. But she knows the truth that the others don’t, and it will test her loyalty and friendship more than anything ever has.


With two brothers side by side, and an army ready for war, the only thing left to be seen is who will live and who will die.

Welcome to the thrilling conclusion of your journey into Eden.
 
 
My Review

This is one of my favorite YA/NA series. There are just so many layers that show what a wonderful author this person is. She has created a story with so much imagination and with heart. The story is told from multiple perspectives with skill not many author possess.
As one hopes when falling in love with each character even the evil ones, we wish for the best. But even in the best books, realistically not all characters survive. While I won’t tell you if any of the characters will or will not die, I will say that the possibility exist.
Here we have a war, and in times of war there are casualties. My heart skipped a beat several times in this story, but I can say that I survived happy with the knowledge that I read this tale. The only thing that could have been better in this story is if it never ended. I would love to know more knowing that this cannot be the end. Still, I relish the ending we were given.
The best part is knowing that this author took care with this story and my heart in constructing it. As an author I can trust that following her series will not be fool hearted.
If you like Game of Thrones, although this is not like it per se, you will like this book. It’s not the cut throat version but rather in the same general lines of genre.
My book boyfriend Wolf.



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Wednesday, October 23, 2013

W is for Wasted (Kinsey Millhone #23) by Sue Grafton

W is for Wasted  (Kinsey Millhone #23)  by Sue Grafton
 
This is a mystery thriller novel (Rated R)
 
 ♥♥♥♥
(Four Wasted Hearts)

 
Book Summary
 
Two dead bodies changed the course of my life that fall. One of them I knew and the other I’d never laid eyes on until I saw him in the morgue.

The first was a local PI of suspect reputation. He’d been gunned down near the beach at Santa Teresa. It looked like a robbery gone bad. The other was on the beach six weeks later. He’d been sleeping rough. Probably homeless. No identification. A slip of paper with Millhone’s name and number was in his pants pocket. The coroner asked her to come to the morgue to see if she could ID him.

Two seemingly unrelated deaths, one a murder, the other apparently of natural causes.

But as Kinsey digs deeper into the mystery of the John Doe, some very strange linkages begin to emerge. And before long at least one aspect is solved as Kinsey literally finds the key to his identity. And just like that,” she says, the lid to Pandora’s box flew open. It would take me another day before I understood how many imps had been freed, but for the moment, I was inordinately pleased with myself.”

In this multilayered tale, the surfaces seem clear, but the underpinnings are full of betrayals, misunderstandings, and outright murderous fraud. And Kinsey, through no fault of her own, is thoroughly compromi
sed.

W is for . . . wanderer . . . worthless . . . wronged . . .
 
 
My Review
As usual, the story was beautifully written and well crafted. I know when I pick up a Sue Grafton book I’ll be satisfied. And I was.
However, sometimes even with the greatest of writers one book may not be perfect. I found it hard to believe when a strong lead came along that Chaney didn’t see the connection with a family member and mention it to Kinsey.
Also, the disease that Pete had, because I had a family member with that disease, I found it hard that Pete was able to live the life they said he had.
I was left with question about Ethan. I just didn’t feel I had the closure with his character. I won’t say more for spoilers.
Finally, having read numerous book by John Grisham, the ending as it relates to a company was rather predictable.
Audio Review
Judy Kaye does a wonderful job of narration and bringing the story to life.
My book boyfriend was Deitz.
 
 
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*Disclaimer - I am not the owner of this picture. I found it on the web for causal fun use on my blog for which I receive no compensation. If this picture belongs to you (you are the copyright owner) please let me know and I will remove it.

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Northern Light by E.J. Russell

Northern Light by E.J. Russell
 
This is a m/m romance novel (Rated R)
 
 ♥♥♥.1/2
(Three and a half Ghostly Hearts)
 
 
Book Summary
 
Nothing gives art fraud investigator Luke Morganstern a bigger rush than busting forgers, the low-life criminals who dare victimize true artists. But when his latest job sends him to a remote cabin in the Oregon Coast Range, he’s stunned to discover the alleged forger is his former lover, Stefan Cobbe, the most gifted painter Luke has ever known.

Stefan, left homeless and destitute after the death of his wealthy partner, doesn’t exactly deny the forgery -- he claims he doesn’t remember, an excuse Luke can’t accept.

But Luke’s elderly client suggests Stefan may be telling the truth and presents another possibility – a dark presence in the woods, a supernatural fury simmering for decades. Luke must face down his fear of the uncanny – and admit his feelings for Stefan – if either of them is to survive.
 
 
My Reviews
 
Overall I thought this was a cute story. The author did a really good job at creating believable characters and a believable relationship.
Although there initial meeting was a stretch, it wasn’t totally out of the realm of possibility considering both their professions. And the author really sold me on it happening.
The only short coming to me which is odd coming from me was the paranormal aspect. For the most part, I wish it wasn’t there. I’m not sure if I’m not a ghost fan or if the story really didn’t need it. It was explained well and was well thought out; I just think it took the bang out of the story, for me at least.
I also felt like the ending lacked something. I just didn’t have the warm and fuzzies the way I would have liked.
Still overall I enjoyed it. If you are looking for a quick read, this is your story. Pick it up.
My book boyfriend Luke.

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Monday, October 21, 2013

Undressed (The Manhattanites #1) by Avery Aster

Undressed  (The Manhattanites #1) by Avery Aster
 
This is an adult contemporary romance/erotica (Rated NC-17)
 
♥♥1/2
(Two and Half Greek Hearts)
 
 
Book Summary
 


Book 1 in The Manhattanites series.

Milan’s notorious playboy, Prince Tittoni, seems to have everything—Lamborghinis, exotic women, palaces throughout Europe and business success. Ramping up his fabric company to go global with a new apparel brand, he ruthlessly stops supplying fabrics to the American client who inspired the collection. But once they meet, what’s he willing to give to get her in his bed?

Upper East Side designer Lex Easton has already endured her fair share of hard knocks. She’ll be damned if she’ll let an Italian stud muffin knock her down. So what if she named her favorite vibrator after him? With Fashion Week approaching, she’ll do whatever it takes to secure the fabrics she needs to make her clothing line an international success—even sleep with her rival.

Lex’s Louboutins are dug in deep to win this war. All’s fair in love and fashion!

Inside Scoop: Though the hero and heroine remain monogamous, their Prada-wearing friends indulge in a ménage a trois and other fashionable sexual fun and games.
 
 
My Review
 
If you are looking for a light read with a for sure HEA this book maybe for you. There is some humor and certainly a bit of angst.
For me, this book was a cluster fuck. So let me explain…
SPOILERS
First, I was annoyed by all the name dropping. While I think a fashionista would know or talk about others in the fashion world, I thought it was a bit unbelievable that a designer would wear other designers on the red carpet or even outside of that environment and name drop. REALLY. Why would you advertise your competition? She didn’t make shoes, so I can forgive that except when she is wearing shoes designed by her clothing competition like Tory Burch.
Second, I didn’t like that she incorporated real people in her book and made them interact with her fictional characters to the point of giving them personality. Is that legal?
Third, the angst. Massimo is about to shag her, to the point of near penetration. And offhandedly she mentions she’s not used to the causal shag. Mind you, she said she was okay with the causal. His reaction is to put his package back in his pants and zip up. REALLY. Not likely. (Anything is possible, but you have to sell me on it. I wasn’t sold.) I could site more examples but I won’t. I will say there was one weird and totally unbelievable sex scene in the book. Anyway…
Fourth, she has around a week or a little more to produce her clothes for her runway event. And she spends most of that time designing and sewing Massimo’s collection and promoting it. I get she partnered with him. The whole point of the partnership was to get the fabric she needed for her collection. But if she doesn’t make the runway and doesn’t sell because it’s a half ass job given the time constraints, what was the point of the partnership.
Fifth, they are engaged in a little over a week time. Not impossible, but they didn’t really get to know each other well enough to be “in love” in my book.
Overall, it’s just too farfetched for me. I couldn’t enjoy it because it didn’t ring true on any level. Too much time was spent name dropping and not character or plot developing.
I have book two. And that was the book I was requested to read. So I will read it, eventually.
My book boyfriend Massimo.
 
 

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Thursday, October 17, 2013

Seduced by Three by Sylvia Ryan

Seduced by Three by Sylvia Ryan .
 
This is an adult dystopian erotic romance novel (Rated NC-17)
 
 ♥♥♥♥
 (Four Steamy Hearts)
 
 
Book Summary
 
Grace Hunter was trained in survival and didn’t need anyone to protect her from the anarchy that resulted after the EMP. But still, she was stuck confined in an underground shelter with three men—all totally different, all powerfully sexy. Together, the group faced the threats of the deadly city above ground.

Over time, each man succeeded in seducing Grace. And before long, all three wanted her for himself alone. Animosity inside the shelter grew unbearable until Grace finally resolved to end it once and for all… and simply vanished without a trace.

It took months for the men to eventually realize that Grace had left them willingly. When they did, hostilities flared between them again. They fought each other, and then fought together to muddle through the complexities of sex, love and their own egos to forge an arrangement that could make them all happy.

[Menage Amour: Erotic Menage a Quatre Romance, M/F/M/M, bondage, spanking, HEA] ** A Siren Erotic Romance **
 
 
My Review
 
Honesty, if the world ended now they way we know it with technology going by the way side, I believe that somewhere in the US, the situation in this book would unfold.
Although this is an erotic tale, there was a well throughout background and events that happen outside of sex. The characters are all well designed and executed with precision.
My only had a few minor problems. First and foremost a bit of insta love. I saw Grace and her connection with the first guy she encounters and even a strong connection with the second. However, the third she barely knew and I found love to be unlikely at the stage she admits to it. With that said, I think the third guy may have been the most likable of the three. Although, I think I loved them each myself.
What I really like is that these characters could have stood on their own outside of the sex story line which shows that this book was well rounded and executed.
Audio Review
Rex J Silverton did a good job with the narration. He seems to have a distinct accent or a bit of a lisp. Not a big deal. For the most part, I was able to distinguish between all the characters.
My book boyfriend is Luke.
 

 
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Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Tragically Flawed by A.M. Hargrove

Tragically Flawed by A.M. Hargrove
 
This is a New Adult contemporary romance novel (Rated NC-17)
 
 ♥♥♥♥♥
(Five Fiery Hearts)
 
Book Summary
 
* This is a New Adult Contemporary Romance with Mature content that is not suitable for younger readers.

Riviera Benson’s past has been nothing but horrific. It’s filled with secrets that she intends to keep tightly locked away...terrifying secrets that keep her awake at night...that prevent her from getting close to anyone...anyone that is, until her work as a muralist drives her into the arms of the hot and sexy Shan.

Benjamin Shandon, owner of Shandon Homes, works like a thousand demons are chasing him...because perhaps they are. His business has boomed, ever since the forest fire swept through the canyon and destroyed hundreds of million dollar homes. He demands excellence in everything...from his employees to his women. He slows down for nothing, keeping a schedule that no sane person would want. But Riviera interrupts everything, twisting his guts inside out, and wedging her way into his heart, destroying a promise he made to himself.

Will they let their pasts control their future, or will they decide to let go and allow their hearts to discover each other’s?



Buy Links:


Barnes and Noble: http://bit.ly/19qMpVb
 
 
My Review
Sometimes our circumstances can lead us in an endless loop of hurt and pain. It takes courage and a leap of fate to embark on a new path and start a new adventure.
This is life and we’ve all had journey, some big, some small. It’s always interesting to me how any one person handles a given situation. Most likely it’s a hundred times different than if the person next to you was dealt the same hand.
This story is Riviera’s journey. She’s isn’t perfect and makes mistakes. But that’s the best part of reading a journey. An adventure is not one if it’s smooth sailing all the way.
The flaws that binds us to our fates may be the ties that draw these two people together in finding that piece of their hearts that always been missing. Tragic it maybe if they don’t see past, old hurts and move onto the future.
Beautifully told in a novel you won’t want to put down, pick this one up and fall into the pages of budding romance.
My book boyfriend Shan.
 


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One day, on her way home from work as a sales manager, A. M. Hargrove, realized her life was on fast forward and if she didn't do something soon, it would quickly be too late to write that work of fiction she had been dreaming of her whole life.  So, she rolled down the passenger window of her fabulous (not) company car and tossed out her leather briefcase.  Luckily, the pedestrian in the direct line of fire was a dodge ball pro and had über quick reflexes enabling him to avoid getting bashed in the head.  Feeling a tad guilty about the near miss, A. M. made a speedy turn down a deserted side street before tossing her crummy, outdated piece-of-you-know-what laptop out the window.  She breathed a liberating sigh of relief, picked up her cell phone, called her boss and quit her job.  Grinning, she made another call to her hubs and told him of her new adventure (after making sure his heart was beating properly again).

So began A. M. Hargrove's career as a YA/NA and Adult Romance writer. Her books include the following: Edge of Disaster, Shattered Edge and Kissing Fire (The Edge Series); The Guardians of Vesturon series (Survival, Resurrection, Determinant, reEmergent and Beginnings); Dark Waltz and Tragically Flawed.

Other than being in love with writing about being in love, she loves chocolate, ice cream and coffee and is positive they should be added as part of the USDA food groups.
 

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*Disclaimer - I am not the owner of this picture. I found it on the web for causal fun use on my blog for which I receive no compensation. If this picture belongs to you (you are the copyright owner) please let me know and I will remove it.