Book Review – Jordan Reclaimed

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Book Review, Jordan Reclaimed, Preload series, Scarlett Cole

We’ve seen these guys before (and even this book) and I was so VERY VERY happy to get my hands on it.  I have to admit … it exceeded all of my expectations!!!

*****

Jordan Reclaimed

A Preload Novel

by Scarlett Cole

E-Original published by Swerve

Publication Date: February 28, 2017

ISBN: 9781250132406

Price: $4.99

Blurb:

Jordan Steele’s life began when he was ten. When he was taken from his parents and a house that was never a home. When he met his brothers, the other lost and abandoned boys in his group home. When he learned what friendship and family and love looked like.

Now he’s made good, touring the world with the band he and his brothers formed in that crowded group home. No one but his found family really knows the man under the fame and fortune, the scars he hides behind the rockstar lifestyle. Until he sees her through the windows of the National Ballet, dancing, and suddenly the world doesn’t seem so dark.

Aleksandra Artemov ticks all the ballet boxes. Father a legendary Kirov dancer. Check. Prepping since birth for classical ballet. Check. Compulsive control over the food she eats. Check. Principal dancer at The National Ballet of Canada. Check. But what she craves is freedom.

She craves Jordan.

Everything about him should terrify her. His size, his tattoos, his edge. But he doesn’t. He stirs her very soul. Jordan has nothing but himself to offer her, and he’s never been good enough for anyone. Can he figure out how to face his own demons before he loses his light for good?

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M3X4F7O

B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/jordan-reclaimed-scarlett-cole/1125495393

iBooks: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/jordan-reclaimed/id1171075980?mt=11

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/jordan-reclaimed

Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Scarlett_Cole_Jordan_Reclaimed?id=xARpDQAAQBAJ

*****

Review:

This is the first in a spin-off series for Cole and while it can very much stand on its own I would recommend reading The Purest Hook, Dred’s story, because you get a better understanding of the dynamic of this group of men.  (Plus, the Second Circle Tattoos series is so amazing – why wouldn’t you want to read great books?!?!)  They’ve been together for years after they were placed in the same foster home and have been carrying around the scars of their childhoods for so very long.  Here we concentrate on Jordan, who I was most curious about when I first got to know Preload, and on the one hand I’m thrilled that we get his secrets but on the other I’m a little sad that the other guys took such a back seat here.  They are there to support him, which so fantastically shows their bond with each other and their places in the family, but we only got a few small glimpses into their issues.  The upside, of course, is that they are all getting their own books and I’m so excited to get my hands on those stories!

Jordan’s past is SO messed up and I can’t imagine how he even managed to make it to this point in as good shape as he has.  Every day is a struggle to overcome his fears and anxieties, but luckily he has an amazing support system within the band.  Then one night he sees Lexi dancing thru the window of her studio.  The connection he feels with her and the balm she provides him is instantaneous, but he’s so screwed up that he feels like he’s no good for him.  He’s finding himself drawn to her with a power, though, that it’s hard to resist.

And Lexi is just as strong in spirit as she is in body so she’s not letting him run without a fight.  She has her own battles, although they aren’t as apparent as his – she’s got a less than positive relationship with her father and, like most dancers, there’s a lot of pressure for her to keep her body in top form (low weight, no injuries, etc).  Her life is hectic but she knows that they can’t ignore the feelings they have for each other and with patience and understanding they could have something amazing.

I can’t even imagine what a jackpot a therapist would find between these two!  But Cole doesn’t pull any punches, always delivering characters of depth and complexity, however by being honest and laying everything out there these two figure out a way to work through every trouble point.  They do it together, which is so important for the future of their relationship.  Jordan Reclaimed is a deeply troubling look at abuse, in many forms, and the long term effects that it has on people but it’s also heartwarming as they work hard to overcome it to be together.  While not an easy book, it was a fast read for me because I just could not put it down.  I think it took less than 24 hours from beginning to end and I wanted to keep going, to get to the next story now  🙂

*****

Author Info:

SCARLETT COLE is a writer of contemporary romance and a two-time RITA finalist. Her debut, The Strongest Steel, was a Best Debut Goodreads Author Finalist 2015. Born in England, Scarlett traveled the world, living in Japan and the United States before settling in Canada where she met her own personal hero – all six and a half feet of him. She now lives with her husband and children in Manchester, England.

Website: http://www.scarlettcole.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itsscarlettcole/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ItsScarlettCole

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31688253-jordan-reclaimed

*****

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Book Review – Saving Drew

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Book Review, Lara Van Hulzen, Saving Drew, Silver Bay series

Saving Drew

Silver Bay, Book 3

by Lara Van Hulzen

Recovering from a shoulder injury that could end his career as starting pitcher of the New York Empires, Drew MacIntire comes to Silver Bay for solitude and privacy from the media frenzy his surgery has created. After he dances with the beautiful baker, Baylee, at his sister’s wedding, his heart not only wants baseball back, but a future with her as well.

Baylee Nelson is settled into her simple, small town life in Silver Bay with her young son, Casey. When Drew saunters into her bakery intent on asking her out, she can’t help but be thrilled. He’s handsome, sexy, kind, and also takes interest in Casey. Baylee knows she needs to keep things casual. She and Drew live in separate worlds, and she needs to keep her focus on her business and son, but Drew didn’t get to the top by giving up easily.

Drew and Baylee are falling hard, but with spring training approaching, it seems like the third strike for their future… Can their love withstand the media glare and challenges of a long distance romance?

This book totally surprised me.  Not having read anything else in the series I didn’t know what to expect but it definitely wasn’t this smooth, mostly angst-free, love story.  It does have just a touch of insta-love, which may not appeal to some, but Van Hulzen does a good job of making sure that they have time to get to know each other and commit to their relationship.

Drew is at a crossroads in his life.  Unfortunately, it isn’t one of his choosing so it’s been really hard on him.  In Silver Bay for his sister’s wedding, he decides to stay just a little longer in the pretty little town.  Especially after meeting (and feeling so comfortable) with Baylee.  She’s been the only thing so far to snap him out of his funk and, while he knows that it isn’t a good time, he really wants to get to know her better.

Baylee has made a good life for herself, her son and her mom.  Unfortunately she’s given up on having a man in her life … until she meets Drew.  He’s understanding, sexy, good with her family, and makes her feel wonderful things again.  But his life isn’t in her small town and she’s not sure she’s up for anything else.

I really enjoyed being with Drew & Baylee as they try to navigate their developing feelings.  Both are hesitant, for good reasons, but their pull is undeniable.  There isn’t a lot of conflict, just the two of them working their way through the obstacles that come up.  It’s refreshing & touching and Van Hulzen makes it so easy to get caught up in their quest for a HEA ending.

(This is the first in this series that I’ve read but it can easily stand on its own.)

Spotlight – Spooning Daisy

Tags

Maggie McConnell, Otter Bite series, Spooning Daisy

This has comedy of errors written all over it … with a HEA ending, of course!

*****

Spooning Daisy

An Otter Bite Romance

by Maggie McConnell

Contemporary Romance (RomCom)

Date Published: June 7, 2016

Publisher:  Kensington (Lyrical Shine)

Blurb:

It’s a long way from Seattle to Otter Bite, Alaska. But if one woman can survive the trip–and the locals–she just might find what her heart has been searching for.

Her mango chutney is exquisite; her blueberry sauce is to die for. But right now, Chef de Cuisine Daisy Moon is a woman without a kitchen–and without a fiancé. Unceremoniously dumped from her place of business and her relationship, Daisy sells her belongings, plus a few of her ex’s, and packs her bags. Maybe smashing all the china in her former restaurant was a bad move. Stripped of her Golden Spoon for “un-chef-like” conduct, she is now blacklisted all over Seattle. Her sole job offer is from the Wild Man Lodge…in Otter Bite, Alaska.

Too bad Daisy can’t even get out of Dodge without incident. By the time she boards a ship for Alaska, she’s got a trail of new troubles behind her, and suddenly Otter Bite is sounding pretty good. But the vessel turns into her own personal Titanic when a series of close encounters confirms her terrible taste in men–including one very good looking bad luck charm named Max Kendall. She vows to dedicate the rest of her days to chowders and brulée. Yet even Alaska isn’t far enough away to shake the memories of the sexy shipmate who rocked her cabin–and her world. Thank goodness she’s done with surprises–but they may not be done with her…

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Spooning-Daisy-Otter-Bite-Romance-ebook/dp/B015VA3O10

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/spooning-daisy-maggie-mcconnell/1122713766?ean=9781601836861

*****

Excerpt:

Max cocked his head at her. No siree, Bob. Daisy Moon was not easy. She was like a 1500 piece puzzle, where all the pieces are really tiny, and similar in shape and color, but are nonetheless different, and it would take weeks, maybe even months, just to get the edges put together.

“Don’t look so surprised,” she said. “I know I’m not exactly laid back. Okay, maybe that’s being kind,” she responded to Max’s smile. “But I’m an incredible cook. And a really good speller. Not to mention having a humongous vocabulary. I came in fourth in the national spelling bee championship when I was fourteen.”

Without meaning to, Max pictured Daisy at fourteen, in a prim white blouse and a demure plaid skirt with her hair tied back in a ribbon, triumphantly spelling words like…concupiscence.

“Do I know what men want, or what?” Now Daisy smiled…at herself.

Taking the cue, Max leaned into her and spoke sincerely, but resisted the urge to cup her hand. “Somewhere there is a man who wants a pretty redhead who’s difficult and a great cook with a really humongous vocabulary who can spell…and next time it won’t be a cross-dressing felon.”

*****

Author Info:

Golden Heart nominee Maggie McConnell spent her childhood overseas as the daughter of US diplomats. Attending college in Illinois, she earned a BA in Art and an MBA while working at the local humane shelter. At 26, she packed her dog and cat into a Ford truck and drove the Alcan Highway to Alaska, where she spent 23 years exploring The Last Frontier in a single-engine Cessna. A vegan and animal rights advocate, Maggie provides a sanctuary on her Arizona ranch for all creatures great and small, but her immediate family includes dog Molly, cat Sara, horses Quinn and Teena, and an ever-growing dynasty of chipmunks. Every year, like the Gray Whale, Maggie returns to Alaska.

Website: http://MaggieMcConnellRomance.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaggieMcConnellRomance/

*****

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Spotlight – Sprinkled with Love

Tags

Bachelor Bake-Off series, Jennifer Faye, Sprinkled with Love

I adore the friends to lovers storyline!  Throw in a matchmaking cat and it is a recipe for success  🙂

*****

Sprinkled with Love

Bachelor Bake-Off #3

by Jennifer Faye

Releasing February 21, 2017

Tule Publishing

Blurb:

What does one do with a matchmaking cat named Romeo?

Spirited and beautiful, Jillian Parker is one of Marietta’s newest business owners. Still, her mother worries about Jillian’s bare ring finger. So in order to give her mother something else to fuss over, Jillian adopts a cat named Romeo. He turns out to be anything but a docile lap cat.

One snowy night, Romeo makes a break for it. With Jillian right on his heels, they have a near miss with a passing pickup driven by Avery Wainwright, one of Jillian’s closest friends. A rodeo accident has the sexy cowboy returning home to recuperate, and he’s not happy about it.

So when Avery finds himself lassoed into the Bachelor Bake-Off, he turns to the one person who has always helped him out—Jillian. But will teaching him to take chances outside of the show ring have them both discovering that their feelings for each other run much deeper than they ever imagined?

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33832386-sprinkled-with-love

Goodreads Series Link https://www.goodreads.com/series/199214-bachelor-bake-off

Buy Links:      AMAZON | B & N | ITUNES | KOBO

*****

Excerpt:

They climbed in the sleigh and then Avery covered Jillian with a heavy lap blanket. “Are you ready?”

She nodded, clutching the thermos. “I am now.”

And then they were off, gliding over the snow. The snow muffled the sounds. And though the moon was hidden behind the clouds, it was still bright out. As they made their way through the field, Avery glanced over at Jillian. She was nestled beneath the plaid blanket and still clutching the thermos. She looked stunning. He should have brought her out here a long time ago.

“What are you smiling about?”

Jillian’s voice drew him from his thoughts. “Who’s smiling?”

“You are and you know it. So what’s up?”

“Nothing. I’m just enjoying the evening.” It was so much more than that, but he really didn’t want to risk ruining this moment. He’d worked so hard to pull it together. He wanted to savor their time together.

For a while they glided along in silence. He had a particular destination in mind. It didn’t have a name. It was just a spot where you could see for miles. And at night, it was like visiting a planetarium with all of the stars twinkling overhead.

“Are you warm enough?” he asked.

She nodded from inside her big, fuzzy hood. “I’m perfect. This is amazing. Do you take the sleigh out very often?”

He shook his head. “This is my first time. I usually come out here on horseback.” He slowed the horse to a stop before turning to Jillian. “I wanted to do something special for you. A way to thank you. You’ve always been there for me and my family, whether it was helping me with the Bake-Off or being the best nanny in the whole world.”

“You…you really think that?”

He’d obviously done a lousy job of communicating his thoughts in the past. He would have to do better going forward.

“I’m sorry I didn’t make that clear before.” He stared into her eyes. “I really appreciate everything you’ve done for me and my family.”

His gaze dipped to her lips. They were shiny and full. And he was overwhelmed with the desire to kiss her again. So what was holding him back?

They were all alone on this snowy evening. And as he’d come to discover while he was planning this evening, it was a very romantic setting. If he were ever to have a chance with her, it would start beneath the starlit sky. But should he risk it? Should he put himself out there again?

It wasn’t like he was asking her to marry him. It was a kiss—a simple, no-strings-attached kiss. It was a starting point.

He rested his arm over the back of the sleigh. His heart started to pound hard in his chest. He’d kissed a number of girls over the years on the rodeo circuit and he’d never put this much thought into it. But none of them had meant as much to him as Jillian. He leaned toward her.

Suddenly Jillian raised the thermos between them. “Hot chocolate?”

He settled back in his seat. Had he read the signs wrong? Was he that rusty where women were concerned?

*****

Author Info:

Award-winning author, Jennifer Faye pens fun, heartwarming contemporary romances with rugged cowboys, sexy billionaires and enchanting royalty. Internationally published with books translated into nine languages. She is a two-time winner of the RT Book Reviews Reviewers’ Choice Award, the CataRomance Reviewers’ Choice Award, named a TOP PICK author, and been nominated for numerous other awards.

Now living her dream, she resides with her very patient husband, amazing daughter (the other remarkable daughter is off chasing her own dreams) and two spoiled cats. When she’s not plotting out her next romance, you can find her curled up with a mug of tea and a book.

Author Links:   WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS

*****

Giveaway:

a $25 Amazon Gift Card

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/521ac4c81236/

*****

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Spotlight – The Wright Brother

Tags

K.A. Linde, The Wright Brother

Finishing up the day with a little taste of K.A. Linde’s newest, which comes out next week.  You can preorder now!

*****

The Wright Brother

by K.A. Linde

Standalone – Contemporary Romance

Release Day: February 28^th, 2017

Blurb:

I’d dated his brother.

He didn’t remember and I wish I could forget.

I may have sworn off the Wright family a long time ago. But when I returned home, Jensen Wright crashed into my life with the confidence of a billionaire CEO and the sex appeal of a god. Even I couldn’t resist our charged chemistry, or the way he fit into my life like a missing puzzle piece.

Too bad he’d forgotten the one thing that could destroy us.

Because Jensen Wright doesn’t share. Not with anyone. And if his brother finds out, this could all go down in flames.

When it all was said and done, was he the Wright brother?

iBooks: https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/book/the-wright-brother/id1196147122?mt=11

*****

Excerpt:

Her smile was magnetic, and I just wanted to kiss her. I mean…I’d wanted to kiss her all night. But sitting there, in front of the last lit house, with Christmas music playing in the background and her smile radiating joy, there was nowhere else I’d rather be. That thought hit me so suddenly and I didn’t even know why.

I put my truck into park, leaned over to her side of the car, and pushed my hand up into her dark hair. She froze, silhouetted by the light display behind her. Her eyes locked with mine, green meeting brown, and her eyes widened with surprise. She breathed out softly, and I could feel her pulse ratchet up at my touch.

This was the girl who had pulled me across the room at Sutton’s wedding, like a magnet finding its pair. This was the tension that I’d felt when we first spoke. Here was the world of desire and lust that had clouded both of our minds ever since our first kiss.

My face was only inches from hers. I wanted to take what was mine. I wanted to claim her mouth and then her body right here in the cab of my truck, like we were young, wild, and carefree.

But, instead, I couldn’t seem to stop staring at her.

She laughed lightly to try to defuse the tension. But it wasn’t possible, and it was a feeble effort.

“Are you going to kiss me?” she whispered boldly.

I didn’t need any further prodding. I crushed my lips against hers. It was like striking a match. Our lips moved against each other, desperate with the need to get closer, to have more. She opened her mouth for me, and I brushed my tongue against hers. The groan that emanated from deep in the back of her throat made my dick twitch. Our tongues volleyed for position. She was just as aching for attention as I was.

I heard the click of her belt buckle, and soon, she was pushing her body closer, moving over the divide of my truck. My hands fell to her ass, and I effortlessly hoisted her up and into my seat. She squeaked in shock but didn’t break contact. Instead, she straddled me and let her hands wander across my chest.

My hands never left her ass because, damn, did that woman have an ass. She was grinding up against me, and I moved into a full-blown hard-on at her ministrations. She must have realized what she was doing to me because, when she swiveled her hips in place, she moaned against the feel of my dick.

In that moment, I didn’t give a shit that we were acting like teenagers, parked outside of a stranger’s house, bucking against each other for just an ounce of satisfaction. I was ready to strip her bare and fuck her until she forgot every word to every Christmas song and only remembered my name.

That was, until she rocked back just a little too hard, and a loud honk erupted from the hood of the truck.

*****

Author Info:

K.A. Linde is the USA Today bestselling author of more than fifteen novels including the Avoiding series and the Record series. She has a Masters degree in political science from the University of Georgia, was the head campaign worker for the 2012 presidential campaign at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and served as the head coach of the Duke University dance team. She loves reading fantasy novels, geeking out over Star Wars, binge-watching Supernatural, and dancing in her spare time.

She currently lives in Lubbock, Texas, with her husband and two super adorable puppies.

WEBSITE / FACEBOOK / TWITTER / INSTAGRAM

*****

Spotlight – ‘Til the Sun Comes Up

Tags

‘Til the Sun Comes Up, MacLarens of Fire Mountain series, Shirleen Davies

We’ve seen lots of books by Shirleen Davies (include Book Seven of this series, No Getting Over You) and I’m so excited that we get to host her again.

*****

‘Til the Sun Comes Up

Book Eight, MacLarens of Fire Mountain Series

by Shirleen Davies

Contemporary Western Romance

Blurb:

Skye MacLaren’s life revolves around her family and the fierce bucking bull stock they provide to rodeos. She’s competitive and competent, having no room in her life for a relationship—including one with a world champion rider and business competitor.

Gage Templeton’s rodeo past and executive position with a national bucking stock supplier assures him of exciting work and nights with any woman he chooses. He’ll let no one get close—until his company partners with a competitor, forcing him to work with the one woman who could turn his resolve upside down.

Knowing a relationship is the last thing either needs, both charge ahead, certain they can keep their explosive feelings for each other in check—and away from curious family and friends. Continuing their secret encounters becomes even harder when outside forces threaten both their businesses and the people they care about.

As Gage works to discover the threat meant to cripple his company, Skye’s doubts increase. She wants more from the most magnetic man she’s ever known, but protecting her heart must come first.

Desire, distrust, fear, and the pain of the past cloud their minds, even as they work together to identify the danger. Can two strong, determined people conquer the perils to their lives as well as their hearts?

‘Til the Sun Comes Up, book eight in the MacLarens of Fire Mountain Contemporary western romance series, is a full-length novel with an HEA and no cliffhanger.

Amazon | iBooks | Google Play | Barnes & Noble | Kobo

*****

Excerpt:

“If we do decide to go through with this, I need to be clear. I’m not looking for a relationship. I’ve been down that road once and don’t intend to ever travel it again. Fact is, I haven’t been with a woman more than once in years. Don’t even know the names of most of them. If that makes me sound like a jerk, I guess that’s what I am. But with you…”

Her chest squeezed as she waited for him to continue.

Reaching out, he took her hand. “You have to be certain you can accept me on my terms.”

Skye bit her lip, willing herself to stay calm. “Then I suppose you should be clear as to what they are.”

Dropping her hand, he sat down on the bed, patting the spot beside him.

“I’d rather stand.” Skye clasped her hands in front of her.

He leaned forward, resting his arms on his thighs, catching her gaze with his. “All right. We see each other when we can, when it’s convenient. No expectations, no late night calls, no drama. I’m free to see other women, and you’re free to see other men.”

“No.”

He straightened. “No? If that’s your answer, I’ll walk out now.”

Turning away, she worked to compose herself. She didn’t know why she even considered his demands, except for one thing. She felt the same about all of it, other than one point.

“I’m good with it all…” She hesitated.

“Except?”

“You don’t see other women, and I don’t see other men. It’s non-negotiable for me, Gage. I’m not looking for a relationship, either, but I’m also not looking to feel cheap or used.”

Gage stood, holding a hand toward her. “Skye—”

“Please, let me finish.” She turned away, gathering her thoughts. “I can live with seeing each other when it works for both of us. No drama, no commitment. Easy and infrequent.” She whipped back around, pinning him with a hard stare. “If you need to be with other women, I’m not the person for this kind of arrangement.”

He winced at the description and the terse tone. “What happens if one of us wants to start seeing someone else?”

“A simple phone call should work.” Her voice remained steady. She didn’t know why it hurt to say it out loud.

Gage walked up to her and placed his hands on her shoulders, his voice low and rough. “The last thing I want is to hurt you. You have to know I’m not a good bet. This could last a few nights or much longer. Either way, I don’t want anything permanent, and I want to walk away as friends.”

“I’m a big girl, Gage. I don’t want or need anything more than seeing each other whenever we have time. Is that fair?”

His nostrils flared. Studying her face, he saw no sign she didn’t believe her own words. Dropping his hands from her shoulders, he picked up his hat, settling it on his head.

Her brows drew together. “Are you leaving?”

“It’s best. You need to be sure it’s what you want. Truthfully, so do I.”

She didn’t like it, but knew he was right. “I leave tomorrow.”

“Change your flight to Sunday.” He smiled. “Please. I’d like to see you tomorrow, show you more of the city, take you downtown for dinner.” Stepping closer, he cupped her face in his hands, the kiss slow and warm. Groaning, he stepped away. “Change your flight, Skye.”

*****

Author Info:

Shirleen Davies writes romance—historical, contemporary, and romantic suspense. She grew up in Southern California, attended Oregon State University, and has degrees from San Diego State University and the University of Maryland. During the day she provides consulting services to small and mid-sized businesses. But her real passion is writing emotionally charged stories of flawed people who find redemption through love and acceptance.  She now lives with her husband in a beautiful town in northern Arizona.

Amazon Author Page | BookBub | Email | Website | Blog

Facebook | Twitter | Google+ | LinkedIn | Pinterest

*****

Giveaway:

$25 Amazon Gift Card

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/80af10c269/

*****

Tour Schedule:

February 20^th

Romance Novel Giveaways

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 February 21^st

CD Yess Writes

cdyesswritesblog.wordpress.com

February 22^nd

Deal Sharing Aunt

http://dealsharingaunt.blogspot.hr/

February 23^rd

Romantic Reads

https://romanticreadsandsuch.wordpress.com

February 24^th

Lola White

www.lola-white.com

February 27^th

Mel’s Shelves

http://www.melsshelves.blogspot.com

 February 28^th

The Phantom Paragrapher

www.thephantomparagrapher.blogspot.com

March 1^st

Natural Bri

www.facebook.com/naturalbripage

March 2^nd

CBY Book Club

http://www.cbybookclub.blogspot.co.uk

March 3^rd

Teatime and Books

http://www.teatimeandbooks76.blogspot.com

Spotlight – Saved by Darkness

Tags

Darkness series, Katie Reus, Saved by Darkness

We’ve seen a couple of Katie Reus books and this one looks fantabulous, with lots of 5 Star reviews on Goodreads.  I gotta admit – I just love the idea of a demon/dragon hero!

*****

Saved by Darkness

A Darkness Novel

by Katie Reus

Blurb:

He thought he lost her decades ago.

Half-demon, half-dragon shifter Ian McCabe is hellbent on getting back the only woman he’s ever loved. When Fiona O’Riley kicked him out of her life decades ago, he thought she was gone for good. Now that she’s back, nothing will stop him from claiming her. But she wants nothing to do with him—or his family.

She’ll do anything to save him.

Fiona knows that Ian is the only male for her. The only way to keep him alive is to stay away from him. But when tragedy strikes and they discover a wicked agenda for the mass murder of humans, they must work together to take down the enemies that threaten everyone. But there’s so much more on the line. As their undeniable desire intensifies, they’re faced with an unbearable choice. If Fiona and Ian succumb to their temptation, mating could be the last thing they ever do.

Amazon: http://smarturl.it/87g212

Barnes & Noble: http://smarturl.it/zlhr9m

iBooks: http://smarturl.it/lsbc1f

Kobo: http://smarturl.it/k54o4g

*****

Excerpt:

His brother flipped open a thin manila file on the desk and revealed an 8×10 glossy of…

Fiona.

Ian blinked once. Twice.

He stared at the picture, feeling his entire body heat up. It had been years since he’d seen her. He had a picture of Fiona, but it was from decades ago and it was in one of his safes—along with other treasures. That was not a myth about dragons—they loved treasure. Given her modern style of dress, this was taken fairly recently. “What is this?” His voice was always raspy, but even more so now.

Rory flicked a glance at Liberty before looking back at Ian. “This is what I wanted to talk to you about. Finn wants to speak to this female. She lives on the outskirts of his territory. Not in it, but close enough. And we needed to know if she is a trustworthy female. I know you know who she is, but I don’t know the nature of your relationship.” He stared at Ian questioningly.

Ian stood abruptly. He’d shared almost every part of his life and history with Rory. Fiona was the only thing he’d left out of that narrative. He simply couldn’t talk about her. It hurt too bad. Made his dragon want to take over, to burn everything and everyone to ash. “She’s trustworthy.” Without saying anything further he strode from the room. He heard his brother curse softly behind him, but ignored him.

Rory was lucky he hadn’t burned a hole in the ceiling and just flown out of there. Which yes, was insane, but Ian wasn’t in control now. He needed to get to the Stavros estate as soon as possible. The Alpha wolf who ran this territory wouldn’t be happy to see him since he didn’t plan to call first, but the male could just deal with it. Seeing Fiona’s picture again had his most primal nature clawing to the surface.

He couldn’t even convince himself that he’d buried memories of her because it was a lie. He thought of her every damn day. The woman lived inside him, was his mate. It didn’t matter that they’d never crossed that final line and mated. That he’d never marked her—that she was mated to another. Another female would never do for him. Now to know that she was somehow nearby, close to Finn’s territory… He was going to find out everything from the Alpha.

Then he was going to see her. He knew he shouldn’t. She was mated, taken. She’d broken his heart into a thousand shards and gone off with another male. Another male her family deemed worthy. Too late he realized she’d done it to protect him, that she’d sacrificed her own happiness to keep him alive. Or it had been an attempt to—but he didn’t need anyone’s protection. He would have kept them safe, alive. He just wished she’d known that, trusted him enough.

Now there was no logical reason to go to her. Still, he would see her. He had to.

*****

Author Info:

Katie Reus is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Red Stone Security series, the Darkness series and the Deadly Ops series. She fell in love with romance at a young age thanks to books she pilfered from her mom’s stash. Years later she loves reading romance almost as much as she loves writing it.

However, she didn’t always know she wanted to be a writer. After changing majors many times, she finally graduated summa cum laude with a degree in psychology. Not long after that she discovered a new love. Writing. She now spends her days writing dark paranormal romance and sexy romantic suspense.

For more information on Katie please visit her website: www.katiereus.com. Also find her on twitter @katiereus or visit her on facebook at: www.facebook.com/katiereusauthor.

*****

Praise for the novels of Katie Reus

“Has all the right ingredients: a hot couple, evil villains, and a killer action-filled plot. . . . [The] Moon Shifter series is what I call Grade-A entertainment!” —Joyfully Reviewed

“I could not put this book down. . . . Let me be clear that I am not saying that this was a good book for a paranormal genre; it was an excellent romance read, period.” —All About Romance

“…a wild hot ride for readers. The story grabs you and doesn’t let go.” —New York Times bestselling author, Cynthia Eden

“Reus strikes just the right balance of steamy sexual tension and nail-biting action….This romantic thriller reliably hits every note that fans of the genre will expect.” —Publishers Weekly

“Prepare yourself for the start of a great new series! . . . I’m excited about reading more about this great group of characters.” —Fresh Fiction

“Wow! This powerful, passionate hero sizzles with sheer deliciousness. I loved every sexy twist of this fun & exhilarating tale. Katie Reus delivers!” —Carolyn Crane, RITA award winning author

“A sexy, well-crafted paranormal romance that succeeds with smart characters and creative world building.”—Kirkus Reviews

“Mating Instinct’s romance is taut and passionate . . . Katie Reus’s newest installment in her Moon Shifter series will leave readers breathless!” —Stephanie Tyler, New York Times bestselling author

“Both romantic and suspenseful, a fast-paced sexy book full of high stakes action.” —Heroes and Heartbreakers

“Katie Reus pulls the reader into a story line of second chances, betrayal, and the truth about forgotten lives and hidden pasts.” —The Reading Café

“Nonstop action, a solid plot, good pacing, and riveting suspense.” —RT Book Reviews

“Mating Instinct was a great read with complex characters, serious political issues and a world I am looking forward to coming back to.” —All Things Urban Fantasy

*****

Giveaway:

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/5440a3541064/

*****

Spotlight – Wild Horse Springs

Tags

Jodi Thomas, Ransom Canyon series, Wild Horse Springs

I love those strong, quiet cowboys, don’t you?

*****

Wild Horse Springs

A Ransom Canyon Romance

by Jodie Thomas

Blurb:

In the heart of Ransom Canyon, sometimes the right match for a lonely soul is the one you least expect.

Dan Brigman may not lead the most exciting life, but he’s proud of what he’s achieved: he’s a respected lawman, and he’s raised a bright, talented daughter on his own. But finding a lone, sparkly blue boot in the middle of a deserted highway gets him thinking maybe the cowgirl who lost it is exactly the shake-up he needs.

After losing her baby girl, Brandi Malone felt like her soul died along with her daughter. Now singing in small-town bars to make ends meet, she’s fine being a drifter—until a handsome sheriff makes her believe that parking her boots under his bed is a better option.

College grad Lauren Brigman has just struck out on her own in downtown Dallas when a troubling phone call leads her back home to Crossroads. Her hometown represents her family, friends and deepest hopes, but also her first love, Lucas Reyes. Will Lauren’s homecoming be another heartbreak, or a second chance for her and Lucas?

Amazon | Books-A-Million | Barnes & Noble

*****

Excerpt:

“Brandi!” Hank, the owner, yelled. “Sheriff’s got something for you.”

The tall man in a tan uniform moved toward her, and for a moment she considered running. But he was between her and the door, and the guy’s face, framed in the shadows of his hat, looked like he operated strictly by the book.

She had no outstanding bills or fines or tickets. She hadn’t committed a crime. There was no reason the law wanted her, so the sheriff must have questions about the bar, or maybe her old van parked outside…

Brandi stood and waited as the sheriff neared. She was stronger than she’d been months ago. She didn’t have to run from questions.

When she’d first hit the road, she hated strangers asking where she was from or anything about her family. She didn’t want to talk about anything but her music. Nothing else mattered. Nothing else existed.

Only, when this stranger in a uniform raised his eyes to look up at her standing on the small stage, he smiled as if he was happy to see her. “Morning, ma’am,” he said.

She didn’t miss that the lawman’s eyes ran the length of her body before he reached her face. Could he have been checking her out? Surely not. Not if he called her ma’am.

“Morning,” she managed to say. “What’s the prob­lem?”

“No problem.”

He smiled again, and she had the feeling that he was a man who didn’t smile often. Brandi relaxed slightly. He had honest blue eyes.

“This wouldn’t happen to be yours?” he asked as he lifted a boot. “It kind of looks like something you might wear.”

Brandi exploded. “Yes! Someone stole them out of my van two weeks ago. In their hurry, they dropped the left one in the parking lot.” She bounced down from the two-foot-high stage. “I loved those boots. I thought I’d lost this one forever, but I couldn’t bring myself to toss the other one away.”

The sheriff stood as stiff as a mannequin while she hugged him.

“Thank you. Thank you.” She reached for the boot.

He pulled it away. “Now wait a minute. I have to have proof.” He was smiling again, obviously en­joying himself. “Maybe you need to try it on. The slipper needs to fit. I think it’s the law, or maybe just a rule.”

She looked down at the tennis shoes she was wearing. “I have to have that boot. I own the match. One boot’s no good without its mate.”

“I’ll need to see the left one first before I hand this one over.”

“Follow me.” She shifted and straightened as if planning to march, playing along with his game.

*****

Author Info:

New York Times bestselling author Jodi Thomas is a fifth-generation Texan who sets many of her stories in her home state, where her grandmother was born in a covered wagon. She is a certified marriage and family counselor, a Texas Tech graduate and writer-in-residence at West Texas A&M University. She lives with her husband in Amarillo, Texas.

Connect with Jodi!

Website | Facebook | Twitter

*****

Giveaway:

Wild Horse Springs by Jodi Thomas – $25 Giftcard

https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/82ae250c50/

*****

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Spotlight – A Shot in the Dark

Tags

A Shot in the Dark, Dark series, J.G. Sumner

Got a little intrigue to get your week started…

*****

A Shot in the Dark

Dark series, Book 1

by J.G. Sumner

Blurb:

A motorcycle crash forces Skyler Smith into Laney Pearson’s hospital, barely clinging to life…

As a trauma nurse, Laney works with surgeon Josh Stone to bring Skyler back from the brink of death and toward recovery. But what initially looks like nothing more than a freak accident may turn out to be much more dangerous—and maybe even deadly.

In the years they’ve worked together, Laney has never given Josh the time of day…

She thinks he’s nothing more than a pompous doctor looking for another notch to add to his belt. But caring for Skyler brings the pair closer, and Laney lets down her guard, allowing them the chance to find happiness together in the midst of so much destruction. But someone doesn’t want them to be happy. Someone wants Laney gone.

Threats might derail their love before it really starts…

As the couple tries to build their budding relationship, Laney begins to receive menacing messages. And when she and Josh learn that Skyler’s accident is anything but unintentional, they fight to balance finding the would-be killer with keeping keep Laney safe from her stalker. But each wild turn takes them further away from the truth…and each other.

Can Laney and Josh discover who is behind the violent acts, or is each guess they make nothing more than a shot in the dark?

Some accidents aren’t accidental…

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Shot-Dark-1/dp/1680589709/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1485742997&sr=8-1&keywords=j.g.+sumner

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-shot-in-the-dark-jg-sumner/1125525742?ean=9781680589702

*****

Excerpt:

“Officer, do you have a minute?” Stephen turned toward Josh.

“Yes, of course. How can I help you?”

Josh got up from the desk and motioned for the police officer to follow him around the corner. Once they got out of earshot, Josh spoke. “Has Laney called you today?”

Officer Miller looked slightly perplexed. “Laney… You mean the nurse in the emergency department?”

Josh had to keep from rolling his eyes. “Yes.”

“No, I haven’t heard from her. Why?”

“Apparently, someone has been leaving her flowers and notes on her doorstep for a few days. She didn’t think anything of it and actually thought they were from me. I found the most recent one this morning when I was leaving. This one had two dead roses and the note was threatening.”

“So, you and Laney are an item.” Officer Miller seemed surprised. “What did the note say?”

Josh was grinning like a little schoolboy. The officer now knew he and Laney were an item. “It was juvenile. But it said, ‘Roses are red, violets are blue, and that other man can never be with you.’ ”

“It sounds to me like it is a threat more toward you and not her.”

“If it’s a threat toward me, why would that person leave them on her doorstep?”

“Perhaps so you will find them and stay away from her. Do you know what the other notes said?”

“Yeah.” Josh recited the poems.

“It sounds to me like this person knows Laney and, quite frankly, has a fascination with her. Does she have any idea who would be sending these?”

“She claims she has no idea. She says she hasn’t even dated anyone in several months and has never even brought a guy to the apartment she’s living in right now.”

“So that means this person has been following her.”

“That’s my feeling exactly.”

“Unfortunately, there isn’t a lot I can do about it. The guy hasn’t threatened any harm to her. What area does she live in?”

Of course he couldn’t help; this was a waste of Josh’s time. “She lives in the Sabre Springs area.”

“That’s out of my jurisdiction. She would need to file a report with San Diego Police Department. Then at least there would be a paper trail started if things continued to escalate. They can also increase surveillance in that area and maybe catch the person.”

“Do you have any contacts with San Diego PD we could talk to?”

“Actually, I do have a friend who would probably help her out. Call the department and ask for Ed Neal. He’s a detective. I don’t know the next day he’s working, but I’ll give him a call too so that he can have a heads up.”

“Thank you. I really appreciate it.” Maybe Stephen wasn’t so bad after all.

“No problem. I’d advise Laney to keep her doors and windows locked and try not to go out at night by herself.”

“Well, I told her not to go anywhere by herself. Who knows what this guy is capable of.”

“Does Laney live by herself or does she have a roommate?”

“She lives alone. I’m going to have her stay with me tonight.”

“That’s not a bad idea. Let me know if there’s anything else I can do to assist you. I’m sorry I can’t be more help.”

“No, I really appreciate your advice. We’ll definitely call your friend in the department.”

“Sounds good.” Stephen began to walk away and then turned back. “Take care of her. You’ve got a good one.” He smiled at Josh.

“Don’t I know it,” Josh mumbled as he turned to go round on his other patients.

*****

Author Info:

JG Sumner is a Registered Nurse who went rogue.  As good as she was at starting IV’s, she enjoys writing the down the stories in her head even more.  Most of the time the characters won’t stop pestering her until she has them down on paper.JG can often be found with a glass of red wine or prosecco in front of her computer.  When she’s not creating, she enjoys the outdoors hiking, bike riding, snowboarding, and camping.

JG has a very dry sense of humor, and should never be taken too seriously.  She loves to hear from her fans, and even those who aren’t and would love to hear your opinion on her books.

JG writes romantic suspense/thrillers including: A Shot in the Dark, Into the Light, The Surrender Trilogy including Surrender, Shattered, and Saved which will be available through Limitless Publishing soon.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/jgsumner

Twitter: @jg_sumner

*****

Giveaway:

$50.00 Amazon gift card

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/40826401598/

*****

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Book Review – Royal Scandal

Tags

Book Review, Marquita Valentine, Royal Scandal, Royals in Exile series

Royal Scandal

A Royals in Exile Novel

by Marquita Valentine

Fairy tales do come true—and so do tabloid scandals! Bestselling author Marquita Valentine kicks off a juicy contemporary romance series with a novel about a prince whose best-laid plans go deliciously awry when he marries the maid next door.

Forced to flee to the United States with his siblings after their parents’ assassination, Crown Prince Colin Sinclair takes it upon himself to become the caretaker of his family while hiding out near Charlotte, North Carolina. But after a decade in hiding, the secret’s out and Parliament demands that Colin wed a princess of their choosing. Unwilling to play their game, Colin decides to marry an American instead, and he has the perfect candidate in mind.

As a home-service professional, Della Hughes doesn’t believe in storybook endings. But when her best friend and secret crush reveals that he’s a flesh-and-blood prince, she doesn’t know what to think. Still, she’ll do anything for Colin, including becoming his wife—in name only, of course. But when their plans to stay purely platonic go by the wayside, their fake honeymoon turns all too real. After a week of white-hot nights, Della can no longer deny her feelings—not with a happily ever after so tantalizingly close.

Y’all, I absolutely LOVED Valentine’s Take the Fall series and was super excited that she was starting a new one (especially with a prince!)  And she definitely didin’t disappoint.

The friendship between Colin and Della is fantastic.  It’s so sweet how she’s there to help him as he struggles to keep his family together.  She’s that understanding, mother figure that the family needs and the support he especially needs.  Of course, there’s more going on between them than either of them is willing to own up to, plus quite a few secrets on both sides.  Which, understandably, means that their fake relationship is going to be anything but smooth sailing.  Things definitely get a little messy along the way (not too drama laden though thankfully), but they’ve got a strong enough bond amongst them all that they’ll figure it out somehow.

Over the course of the book we’re given a little glimpse of the royal intrigues (and at just how screwy the Sinclair parents were) but more importantly we get a few chances to learn about the Sinclair siblings.  Each of them is sure to have a story coming up and I’ll be waiting with bells on!  Valentine is such a deft story teller that she’d make even the phone book an enjoyable read, but with this group she’s got the material to make things really juicy and fun  🙂