ARC Review: Big Easy Temptation By Shayla Black and Lexi Blake
Big Easy Temptation
Perfect Gentlemen Book 3
By Shayla Black and Lexi Blake
Coming May 3, 2016
Print ISBN 978-0425275344
The New York Times bestselling authors of the Masters of Ménage series present the
third scintillating novel featuring the privileged, wealthy, wild men of Creighton
Academy—the Perfect Gentlemen.
Years ago, Naval officer Dax Spencer and NCIS agent Holland Kirk indulged in a
steamy affair—until she betrayed him in the wake of his father’s death. Dax tried to put
her behind him with a payback of his own. But he never forgot Holland…
Now, as Dax and his fellow Perfect Gentlemen unravel a web of lies, he discovers
his family’s tragedy is part of a much larger conspiracy. Soon, all clues point him back to
New Orleans…where Holland waits, protecting her deadly secret and holding a torch for
Once reunited, they can’t fight the passion flaring hot and wild. But something
sinister lurks around every corner, from the elegance of the Garden district to the beauty
of the bayou. Dax and Holland may find their way back to each other—if they survive…
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Excerpt:
“I’m going to kiss you now and I won’t stop unless you tell me to.”
“I won’t say a word,” she breathed.
He lifted his free hand to her hair, sliding out the elastic band holding the low
ponytail she typically wore. He gripped the strands. “Soft as silk. Just like you.”
“I’m not soft, Dax.” She didn’t want him to think she was like the other women he’d
been with. They likely had been sweet, feminine creatures. Holland couldn’t afford to be.
“Yes, you are. You can be strong and soft and silky all at the same time. That’s who
you are and one of the reasons I find you interesting. I want to know every single facet of
Holland Kirk. I want to be the man you explore with, experiment with, be true with.”
She had the feeling he wasn’t merely talking about sex. This was why she’d always
hesitated. Dax wanted all of her, even the parts of herself she’d shut down and hidden and
told herself didn’t matter. He wouldn’t accept anything less than the whole of her soul.
But if he gave her back the whole of his, wasn’t that worth it? If they were both
vulnerable, they could learn to trust.
She leaned in and his lips finally met hers. Slow and steady. He took her mouth like
a man indulging in decadence, as though knowing they would share the pleasure of sex
made him willing to stretch this moment out to something rich and sinful.
Gently, he fisted a hand in her hair, lighting up her scalp with sensation as he took
her lips more fully, clasping her body against his own. She softened, giving in to the
demand of his mouth, his hands. And when his tongue slid over her lower lip, demanding
entry, she couldn’t stop herself from flowering open for him.
Dax pulled her up and onto his lap. She clasped her arms around his neck, bringing
him closer. She could feel his erection pressing against her, thick and hard. So big. She
couldn’t help but wriggle a little, trying to get closer to him.
His arms tightened on her. “Stop it, sweetheart, or we’re going to have a problem. I
want this to last. After waiting this long, I want to savor tonight.”
But she was already on the edge, dying for him to be on top of her, inside of her.
“We should set some ground rules first,” he growled against her neck. “Holland, I’m
crazy about you, but you’re going to let me control sex. I’m not foolish enough to think I
could control anything else in our relationship but I need you to let me handle this.”
“Why does anyone have to be in control?” She’d always been in the power position
with the men in her bed. Ceding it to Dax both excited and scared her.
“Because, as you pointed out, I have more experience. And I’m wired to take
control. We’re not going to go at it like two teenagers. Not this first time. Maybe later,
when I know exactly how to touch you to get you hot.” Heat melted his dark eyes like
chocolate. “But right now I have to figure out how to handle you, how to steer you the
“Aren’t you?” He brushed a big hand over one of her breasts, cupping her flesh in his
broad palm and making her gasp. “Everything that’s worth doing is worth doing right.
Making love to you is definitely worth my best effort. See, this little nipple is begging for
attention.” He dragged his thumb across the sensitive bud so slowly she bit her lip to hold
in a moan. “Take off your shirt and your bra so I can give it the proper attention.”
His voice had dropped an octave and gone velvety. Holland found herself obeying
him. Her fingers shook as she reached for the buttons of her shirt, twisting each and
releasing it before moving to the next. She didn’t leave the comfort of his lap, but he sat
back like a king watching the show, mentally undressing her with those eyes. There was
something a bit forbidden about baring herself while his erection pressed so intimately
Holland unfastened the last button and let her shirt fall away before she unhooked
the front clasp of her bra. Her breasts were nothing special. She hit the gym three or four
times a week to stay in shape. She considered herself more athletic than sexy, but the way
Dax’s breath hitched and he affixed his stare to her bare mounds, as if he’d never seen
anything sexier, made her rethink all that.
He dragged his heated palm down the valley between her breasts. “Sweetheart . . . I
always knew you would be gorgeous without all those clothes. So beautiful.”
Until him, she hadn’t felt that way. Her body had been a tool to use in service of her
job, a way to move about each day. When she’d had sex, she preferred to go to the
bedroom, get the deed done, and get to sleep. Her few longer-term boyfriends hadn’t
seemed to mind, but she got the feeling Dax would take exception to that routine.
With him, it meant far more to her than a rote activity, too.
He kissed her again, their tongues tangling as he explored her breasts, caressing her
nipples, plying them with his touch. Fire licked through her system. She could feel
“Lean back for me. I’ll hold you and keep you safe.” His words rumbled over the
sensitive flesh of her neck as he gently leaned her back, resting her over his arm until she
arched and thrust her chest up to him like an offering.
“Yes, these little pearls need affection.” He tongued one, laving and sucking it.
She had to bite her lip to hold in a cry. She’d never thought her nipples were
particularly sensitive, but that was because they’d never experienced Dax’s clever mouth.
She heard herself whimper as he sucked one bud deeper between his lips. He didn’t
satisfy himself with a little lick, a short few seconds of suckling. Not Captain Dax
Spencer. He indulged. He reveled. He caressed her with his tongue, tracing her areola
before he sucked the tip back into his mouth and gave her the bare edge of his teeth. A
tiny bite of pain flared before he soothed the bud with a soft laving. Her body balled into
an ache, her sex throbbed as he shifted his attention to her left breast and gave it the same
“I want to kiss and lick and taste every inch of you, Holland. Do you know how
long I’ve waited to be here? Years. Fuck, sweetheart, even before I met you, I dreamed
about you. I’ve always known you’re the one woman who could make me feel, make me
want forever.” He nuzzled her, the stubble of his hard jaw gently abrading her skin.
“Stand up and take off your pants. I don’t want anything to stop me from touching you.”
4.5 Stars
The third book of the Perfect Gentleman series, Big Easy Temptation is sensational from beginning to end. Shayla Black and Lexi Blake entice readers with explosive passion while keeping them on the edge of their seats with scandalous suspense.
Chemistry, second chances, betrayal and bonds deeper than blood. The Perfect Gentleman return with a fast paced, emotional and jaw dropping suspense filled read that reads like you watching it. Passion laces every emotion within the story. From beginning to end Shayla and Lexi keep reader thinking while tempting them.
Dax and Holland are explosive together. A history of longing and passion have created an intense sexual tension. Intimacy and seduction that Dax and Holland dance around and share is the stuff of stories. The two complement each other so well. Their chemistry is off the carts but drunken actions cut pretty deep. Leaving
Big Easy Temptation was a one sit, I can’t put this down read. I became so enthralled with the story I had to know. Long buried secrets begin to surface and caught in the web are the Perfect Gentlemen. Highly scandalous and extremely sexy Ms. Black and Ms.Blake truly give readers everything in this book. A great plot, amazing characters and story that had you holding on for every bit of the magic that this fabulous writing duo creates.
Review copy provided by netgalley.
ABOUT SHAYLA BLACK:
Shayla Black is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than
forty novels. For over fifteen years, she’s written contemporary, erotic, paranormal, and
historical romances via traditional, independent, foreign, and audio publishers. Her books
have sold well over a million copies and been published in a dozen languages.
Raised an only child, Shayla occupied herself with lots of daydreaming, much to the
chagrin of her teachers. In college, she found her love for reading and realized that she
could have a career publishing the stories spinning in her imagination. Though she
graduated with a degree in Marketing/Advertising and embarked on a stint in corporate
America to pay the bills, her heart has always been with her characters. She’s thrilled that
she’s been living her dream as a full-time author for the past seven years.
Shayla currently lives in North Texas with her wonderfully supportive husband, her
teenage daughter, and a very spoiled cat. In her “free” time, she enjoys reality TV,
reading, and listening to an eclectic blend of music.
Visit Shayla’s website: http://shaylablack.com/
Visit Shayla on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShaylaBlackAuthor/?fref=ts
Visit her Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Shayla-
Black/e/B001IOFJQM/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1451315186&sr=8-2- ent
ABOUT LEXI BLAKE:
NY Times and USA Today bestselling author Lexi Blake lives in North Texas with her husband, three kids, and the laziest rescue dog in the world. She began writing at a young age, concentrating on plays and journalism. It wasn’t until she started writing romance and urban fantasy that she found the stories of her heart. She likes to find humor in the strangest places and believes in happy endings no matter how odd the couple, threesome, or foursome may seem.
Her first novel, Their Virgin Captive: Masters of Ménage, Book 1, was a collaboration with New York Times bestselling author Shayla Black. There are six more books available in the series: Their Virgin’s Secret, Their Virgin Concubine, Their Virgin Princess, Their Virgin Hostage, Their Virgin Secretary, and Their Virgin Mistress. In addition to the Masters of Ménage series, she is the author of the Masters and Mercenaries series. The first nine novels, The Dom Who Loved Me, The Men with the Golden Cuffs, A Dom is Forever, On Her Master’s Secret Service, Love and Let Die, Dungeon Royale, A View to a Thrill, You Only Love Twice, and Master No are available now, along with the novellas Sanctum, Unconditional, Dungeon Games, Cherished, Luscious, Adored, and Just One Taste. The tenth novel, From Sanctum with Love, is coming February 23, 2016, along with a new novella, Devoted, on April 12, 2016.In 2013, Lexi also began releasing her urban fantasy series, Thieves.The full series, Steal the Light, Steal the Day, Steal the Moon, Steal the Sun, and Steal the Night,are available now on Amazon. The first two books in a spin-off of the series, Ripper and Addict, were released in 2015. Look for Sleeper, the next book in the spin-off series, to be released in Lexi again collaborated with Shayla Black in a new series The Perfect Gentlemen. The first book, Scandal Never Sleeps, is now available. Book two, Seduction in Session, willrelease on January 5, 2016, followed by book three, Big Easy Temptation, on May 3,Sign up for Lexi’s FREE newsletter at http://lexiblake.net .
For more information about her books, her appearances and her wacky life visit her
Facebook page (http://goo.gl/q2IHnJ) or her website (http://www.lexiblake.net) .
Release Day: Dare to Take by Carly Phillips
Dare to Take by Carly Phillips
Date of Publication: May 3, 2016
Blurb
She was off limits,
But he couldn’t resist.
There are just some guys you don’t touch–even someone as innocent and inexperienced as Ella Shaw knows that. But when her brother’s best friend is up for grabs and willing, she can’t resist. After all, she’s wanted him for years…
On leave from the army, Tyler Dare WAS just looking for a little fun, but his best friend’s sister is off limits. Yet unable to deny how sexy and alluring she is, he finds it all too easy to succumb to a night of passion and heat that ends the next morning in the worst way possible.
Now years later, Ella is stranded on a tropical island with a hurricane bearing down, and only Tyler can save her. It’s his chance to make amends for the past and show the woman he’s never forgotten that he’s coming after her . . . in more ways than one.
Available From
About Carly Phillips
After a successful fifteen year career with various New York publishing houses, and over 40 sexy contemporary romance novels published, N.Y. Times and USA Today Bestselling Author Carly Phillips is now an Indie author who writes to her own expectations and that of her readers. She continues the tradition of hot men and strong women and plans to publish many more sizzling stories. Carly lives in Purchase, NY with her family, two nearly adult daughters and two crazy dogs who star on her Facebook Fan Page and website. She’s a writer, a knitter of sorts, a wife, and a mom. In addition, she’s a Twitter and Internet junkie and is always around to interact with her readers. You can find out more about Carly at http://www.carlyphillips.com.
Find Carly Phillips Online
Teaser
The sun shone overhead, the temperature neared ninety, and the humidity was hair-curlingly high on the Caribbean island of St. Lucia, making it hard to believe a hurricane was coming soon. Ella Shaw glanced up at the blue sky, knowing it wouldn’t remain pristine for long.
The calm before the storm.
She pulled her hair into a high ponytail and headed out of her hotel, determined to hit the local gift shop she’d caught sight of on her way to the photo shoot yesterday. She’d seen long, draping, blue-beaded necklaces from the storefront window, but she hadn’t had time to stop. Her boss was a stickler for getting the right shot in the exact light, and they’d worked well past dark. By the time they’d wrapped for the day, the store had been closed.
As an assistant for Angie Crighton, a fashion designer based in Miami, Ella was responsible for the little details involved in a photo shoot. And though Angie, the photographer, and models had left the island this morning, Ella had stayed to make sure the shooting site was clean, the hotel pleased enough to allow them back another time. And if she were honest with herself, she liked the downtime after the craziness of a photo shoot, the rushing around of the crew, the bossiness of some of the models and, of course, of Angie herself.
Ella appreciated the fact that she had time to souvenir shop for her best friend, Avery Dare. How ironic was it that the two girls from very different worlds had met at all? But they had. And it was Avery who’d introduced Ella to the finer things in life, leading her to seek out a job with an haute-couture designer. Whereas Avery came from a wealthy family, Ella had been raised firmly middle class, but the two girls had bonded instantly. They’d even shared an apartment until recently, when her best friend had moved in with her rock star boyfriend, Grey Kingston.
Yep, two different worlds, even now, Ella thought wryly. But their friendship was solid. Which reminded her, she needed to let Avery know she might not make it back to the States tomorrow as planned.
When Ella had heard about the storm changing course, she’d tried to book an earlier flight out, without success. She shivered at the possibility of being stranded here alone during a hurricane and knew Avery would like the news even less. Her best friend suffered from severe anxiety, and Ella didn’t like to make her worry.
She’d just buy Avery an extra gift to make up for it, she thought, walking into the shop. She immediately headed to the turquoise-blue beads she’d seen through the window. The shopkeeper claimed they were Larimar beads. Even if they were fake, the beads, popular in the Caribbean, were said to have healing powers. Ella purchased two dozen, a mix of bracelets and necklaces, so she could share with the children at the cancer treatment center where she and Avery volunteered.
Avery had been nine, Ella ten years old when they’d met at a Miami hospital, both donating bone marrow, both there at the behest of a parent. Neither of them really understanding what was happening. All Ella had known was that she was doing a favor for her father, helping the stepmother Ella didn’t like all that much to begin with. Even at a young age, Ella had been a good judge of character, a better one than her father, obviously, because shortly after Janice had gotten well, she’d left Ella’s dad. And both her father and Ella’s life had gone downhill from there. Ella shook off the thoughts of her past before she could go deeper and darker, and focused on the pretty jewelry.
She spent some time choosing a thick turquoise bracelet for Avery and a similar one for herself before paying for everything and waiting for the shopkeeper to wrap things up.
Bag in hand, she started back to the hotel, cutting through side streets and looking into the windows of the stores, soaking up the culture along the cobblestone streets before heading back to Miami tomorrow. At least, she still hoped she’d be home. Knowing she couldn’t change the outcome, she pushed her worrisome thoughts aside. She’d deal with the situation as it came.
Sweat dampened her neck from the humidity of the island, and she contemplated taking a cab back to the hotel. She reached into her straw bag and pulled out her cell phone to make the call, when, without warning, she felt a hard jerk on her purse.
“What the—?” She spun around, but whomever wanted her purse was quicker.
She barely caught a glimpse of a tall guy with dark hair as he yanked harder, nearly pulling her shoulder out of its socket before slamming her against the nearby building with his other hand.
Her head hit the concrete wall, and spots immediately appeared behind her eyes from the impact. As she struggled not to pass out, the man grabbed her purse, along with her cell phone that had fallen to the ground.
She opened her mouth to scream, but nothing came out. Her legs collapsed beneath her, and she fell to the ground, her head smacking the sidewalk before everything went black.
ARC Review and Excerpt: Z by Larissa Ione
Z is the latest in Larissa Ione’s incredible Demonica Underworld Series brought to you by the amazing team at 1001 Dark Nights! Be sure you grab your copy of this sexy new novella today!
Amazon ** Paperback
About Z:
Zhubaal, fallen angel assistant to the Grim Reaper, has spent decades searching for the angel he loved and lost nearly a century ago. Not even her death can keep him from trying to find her, not when he knows she’s been given a second chance at life in a new body. But as time passes, he’s losing hope, and he wonders how much longer he can hold to the oath he swore to her so long ago…
As an emim, the wingless offspring of two fallen angels, Vex has always felt like a second-class citizen. But if she manages to secure a deal with the Grim Reaper — by any means necessary — she will have earned her place in the world. The only obstacle in the way of her plan is a sexy hardass called Z, who seems determined to thwart her at every turn. Soon it becomes clear that they have a powerful connection rooted in the past…but can any vow stand the test of time?
About Larissa Ione:
Larissa Ione is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author. An Air Force veteran, she traded in a career as a meteorologist to pursue her passion of writing. She now spends her days in pajamas with her computer, strong coffee, and supernatural worlds. She believes in celebrating everything, and would never be caught without a bottle of Champagne chilling in the fridge…just in case. She currently lives in Wisconsin with her U.S. Coast Guard husband, her teenage son, a rescue cat named Vegas, and her very own hellhound, a King Shepherd named Hexe.
Website | Facebook |Twitter | 1001 Dark Nights
Excerpt:
Zhubaal had suffered like everything else in Sheoul-gra while the Grim Reaper’s soul grew more and more sinister and corrupt. But now that much of the darkness had been lifted, and knowing what life was like in the Inner Sanctum, Zhubaal had sworn to never let himself sink too deeply into evil temptations. The Inner Sanctum’s first level was absolutely his goal.
They had beer there.
“So…you have a girlfriend?”
Once again, the change of topic gave him whiplash, but he managed to shake his head.
She picked up a rock and skipped it like he had, except her stone went farther. “Then who is the ‘her’ you mentioned when you were yelling at me?”
“I wasn’t yelling.” He looked around for another rock. He couldn’t let her win. “And it’s complicated.”
“Hmm. Complicated, you say.” She tapped her finger on her chin, and he could practically hear the wheels turning in her head as she tried to figure out what “complicated” meant. He wished her luck with that. He couldn’t untangle it himself.
“So this person…are you in love with her? Is she emotionally unavailable? Or involved with someone else?” Vex sucked in a sharp breath. “Ooh, that’s it, isn’t it? Being involved with someone else would be really complicated. So who is she? Azagoth’s mate?” She clapped her hands, delighted by the gossipy speculation. “It is!”
“It’s not Lilliana, and don’t even think that.” He found a stone of adequate shape and size and dug it out of the ground with his fingers. “Azagoth is dangerously territorial. Once a dude leered at her for too long, and then he made this slurping noise at her…” He shook his head, still amazed by the male’s stupidity and Azagoth’s swift and brutal reaction.
Vex bounced on her toes like a child listening to an exciting bedtime story. “Did he kill the dude?”
“No,” Z said, “but he won’t be looking at Lilliana again. He won’t be looking at anyone again.”
“Azagoth seems really dreamy,” she sighed, and wasn’t she a bloodthirsty little thing. So opposite of Laura, but he had to admit that he found that attractive in a female. Cruelty, no, but there was nothing wrong with a little eye-for-an-eye. Or an eye for a leer. “I mean, scary, too. But dreamy.”
4.5 Stars
Vex is a spitfire of a woman. Strong, sassy cunning. She a magnet for demon’s souls. A Daemani. Until recently a very lucrative business for her. That has her seeking out the keeper of souls himself. I liked everything about Vex. She holds her ground, says what’s her mind and will go for broke.
Zhubaal is a fallen angel searching for is long love. His strength and will are remarkable, however the man is a bit prudish. A Virgin hero who has never wavered from the bond he made. When fate put the lost soul into a woman that is the polar opposite of his beloved, Z has to separate his pass love with Laura and realize a soul doesn’t make the person.
Larissa Ione gives reader a quick and hot read that rekindled my love of paranormal. Z and Vex made me laugh yet both of them could have used a good smack upside the head. Their chemistry was a bit different but worked for them. And their passion was explosive. A one sit, steamy and read.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
Larissa Ione’s Z – Review & Excerpt Tour Schedule:
April 27th
A Fortress of books – Review
What Is That Book About – Excerpt
Booklovers For Life – Review & Excerpt
Queens of the Darkside – Excerpt
April 28th
Milky Way of Books – Review
Extreme Bookaholics – Excerpt
Nice Ladies, Naughty Books – Excerpt
April 29th
Collector of book boyfriends – Excerpt
Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews – Review
I Smell Sheep – Review
Oh My Shelves – Review
April 30th
Reading Between the Wines Book Club – Excerpt
Smokin’ Hot Reads Book Blog – Review & Excerpt
Barbara Book Reviews – Excerpt
May 1st
Angelika blogja – Review
Sultry, Steamy Reading – Review & Excerpt
Deluged with Books Cafe – Review & Excerpt
Coffee-Books-Life Blog – Review & Excerpt
May 2nd
Bridget’s Book Bungalow – Review & Excerpt
That’s What I’m Talking About – Review
Books-n-Kisses – Review & Excerpt
May 3rd
Reads All the Books – Review & Excerpt
Wicked Faerie’s Tales and Reviews – Excerpt
Diane’s Book Blog – Review
Alpha book club – Review & Excerpt
May 4th
The Romance Reviews – Review
Ashley Book Blog – Review & Excerpt
Romancing the Readers – Review
KatyaRath – Review & Excerpt
May 5th
Hike2Forty and beyond – Review & Excerpt
KT Book Reviews – Excerpt
A Hopeless Romantic’s Booklandia – Review & Excerpt
SnoopyDoo’s Book Reviews – Excerpt
May 6th
Hart’s Romance Pulse – Excerpt
Book Lovin’ Mamas – Review & Excerpt
Angel’s Guilty Pleasures – Excerpt
Evermore Books – Review & Excerpt
Cover Reveal: SAPPHIRE AFFAIR by Lauren Blakely
Lauren Blakely’s THE SAPPHIRE AFFAIR and THE SAPPHIRE HEIST, the titles in Lauren’s new contemporary romance Jewel Novel series have covers and they are hot! Readers will find sex, wit, glamour, and high stakes in this enemies-to-lovers sexy contemporary romance series, with a rugged, ex-military, dirty-talking alpha hero! THE SAPPHIRE AFFAIR is set to release on July 12, 2016 with the second novel, THE SAPPHIRE HEIST, releasing on August 16, 2016!
Excerpt from THE SAPPHIRE AFFAIR:
He’d have to get to the bottom of this on his own, and figure out if he was being played by the woman with the starfish belly ring. He wasn’t going to let last night’s kiss cloud his focus. He wasn’t going to let that blue bikini that hugged her hips, and had the good fortune to snuggle up to her breasts, distract him. Absolutely not.
“I’m glad you made it. I thought you’d get a kick out of Happy Turtle Cove, since you named me Happy Turtle,” she said, then dropped her voice to a faux whisper. “But it’s really a cove for turtles. I was just swimming with them.”
Stop. Just stop.
Swimming with turtles was too adorable. Especially when her nose crinkled. A constellation of freckles was splashed across her nose. He hadn’t noticed them yesterday. Briefly, he wondered where else she might be hiding freckles that he’d uncover on a proper and thorough investigation of her fantastic body. Preferably with his tongue, across every inch of her skin. “You were actually swimming with turtles?”
She tapped the mesh bag on her shoulder. “My snorkel gear is in here.” She gestured to her body. “Sorry, I’m still in my bathing suit. I’ll put on a sundress as soon as this is dry.”
“Or just remove the bikini entirely so it’ll dry faster. It’s not ever necessary to put on a dress on my account. I’m completely OK with the bikini as a sole item of clothing on a woman like you,” he said, then nearly smacked himself. He had to stop thinking with his dick. He had to use that head on his goddamn shoulders.
Cover up that body. Put a paper bag over your face. Stop being so damn sexy and sweet. Stop making me think about taking you back to my hotel room and peeling off that bikini and tasting how sweet your sun-kissed skin is.
“I’m glad to know that both nudity and skimpy bathing suits have your sartorial approval. But I actually hope to look somewhat decent when you take me to the Coconut Iguana. My friend Sandy runs it.”
He arched an eyebrow in question.
She tapped her wrist, even though it was bare. She didn’t strike him as a watch wearer. “Lunch time. I’m hungry. So I decided to let you take me out to lunch as a reward for your showing up and following my napkin instructions. Plus, they have the best fish tacos on the Islands, and absolutely amazing coconut drinks,” she said, stepping closer and bumping her hip against him.
A groan rumbled in his chest. Why was the universe torturing him?
He forced his brain to take over. To focus on facts, not lust. Because it made no sense why she’d be hungry, since he’d seen her at a restaurant two hours ago, and she didn’t look like she noshed around the clock. This was another sign that she might be working for the enemy.
“I’m hungry, too. Let’s head to the Coconut Iguana.” He held out a hand, telling himself that lunch was the perfect opportunity to get to the heart of who this woman was. Since she knew Eli, she might be a valuable asset. And if this woman was playing him, he could play her.
** THE SAPPHIRE AFFAIR & THE SAPPHIRE HEIST are being released by Montlake, which is an Amazon publishing company, and will only be available for sale at Amazon. You can download a free Kindle reading app for any smartphone or tablet here: http://amzn.to/1MIyrHi
ABOUT THE SAPPHIRE AFFAIR (Jewel Novel #1):
Bounty hunter Jake Harlowe knows how to track a criminal. So when a group of swindled shareholders hires him to trail their former CEO, Jake expects a quick trip to the Cayman Islands to close another case. Until a devastatingly beautiful woman gets in the way.
Steph Anderson is visiting the Caymans for a rock climbing and dive trip—or so she tells Jake. She’s really trying to find out whether or not her stepfather embezzled money from his company. The last thing Steph needs is the distraction of a sexy, charming man whose kisses drive her wild.
Soon, the pair discover they’re after the same target—and millions in jewels. While Jake can’t be certain Steph isn’t working for her stepfather, and Steph can’t be certain Jake isn’t after the diamonds for himself, they can agree the heat between them is intense, and neither can deny the passion for long.
But the morning after, Steph discovers that she just might have slept with the enemy, and now she’ll have to outwit him to get everything she needs…
The Sapphire Affair: Releases July 12,2016
✦ Amazon US ✦ Amazon UK ✦ Amazon Paperback ✦ Amazon AU ✦ Amazon CA
✦ Audiobook (narrated by Sebastian York)
ABOUT THE SAPPHIRE HEIST (Jewel Novel #2):
Keep your lover close and your enemy closer…
After giving in to a fiery night of passion, island adventurer Steph Anderson and bounty hunter Jake Harlowe are back to square one. With millions in stolen jewels at stake, it’s hard for Steph not to question her new partner’s true motives—no matter how sexy he might be. Jake is hungry for more of Steph, but he can sense her growing mistrust, which only fuels his own doubts. Worse, there’s undeniable evidence that someone else is now after the jewels—and that they are both in real danger.
Fighting against their magnetic attraction is a distraction these two can’t afford. In order to survive, they’ll have to pull off one more heist—and trust each other with something even more precious than jewels: their hearts.
The Sapphire Heist: Releases August 16, 2016
✦ Amazon US ✦ Amazon UK ✦ Amazon Paperback ✦ Amazon AU ✦ Amazon CA
✦ Audiobook (narrated by Sebastian York)
About Lauren Blakely:
Since self-publishing her debut romance novel CAUGHT UP IN US three years ago, Lauren Blakely has sold more than 1 million books. She is known for her sexy contemporary romance style that’s full of heat, heart and humor. A devout fan of cake and canines, Lauren has plotted entire novels while walking her four-legged friends. She lives in California with her family. With nine New York Times bestsellers,her titles have appeared on the New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestseller List more than three dozen times. Her bestselling series include Sinful Nights, Seductive Nights, No Regrets, Caught Up in Love and Fighting Fire. She recently released BIG ROCK, a sexy standalone romantic comedy that became an instant New York Times Bestseller. In the late spring, she’ll release MISTER O, another standalone romantic comedy.
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter | THE SAPPHIRE AFFAIR Goodreads | THE SAPPHIRE HEIST Goodreads | Lauren Blakely Goodreads
Review: Let It Ride by Melanie Jayne
Let it Ride by Melanie Jayne
Date of Publication: April 14, 2016
Blurb
The first time he met her, he couldn’t have her. In their world there are rules against that kind of interaction. So Remington Cooper watched, waited, and planned.
Now his luck has turned and he five days to win the woman of his dream’s heart.
Francesca Luchetti knows that Remy is interested, he’s made that clear. She likes the idea of a fling. Conventions can be dull, so the promise of sex with a hot man will make things more exciting.
When there is a threat to Francesca’s safety, she learns that Remy is the man to keep her safe, but is she ready to gamble with her heart?
Available From
About Melanie Jayne
I live on a grain farm southeast of Indianapolis, Indiana with my very patient husband of twenty-five years and our two English Mastiffs, Buster Brown and Ginger. I graduated from Indiana University when it was the #1 party school in the country and I took great pride in helping the school achieve that ranking.
I haven’t figured out what I want to be when I grow up. I change careers every decade. I have worked in retail, a federal courtroom, travelled across the state closing loans, and behind the scenes in a casino.
I’ve always had an active imagination so when a good friend suggested that I try writing a book, I thought why not, it should be fun. It has, but I have had to work very hard to learn how to do it. I am so lucky for the outpouring of advice and education from so many in the industry, plus the hand-holding and cheerleading from My Gurls. I also have an incredible Ad-man-istrative Assistant, who tries to keep me under control. He rolls his eyes so much that I worry about a permanent condition.
When I ‘m not working or writing type stuff, I sleep, watch courtroom TV shows, and sports. I was a competitive pro-am ballroom dancer for ten years and I read as many books as I can.
I love to attend Author-Reader Conventions and look forward to meeting you.
Find Melanie Jayne Online
Teaser
“I don’t like that a self-proclaimed enemy of Jimmy’s might be attending this event. He’s mentioned you by name in several of his rants.” Blade’s soft voice radiated concern.
“His career is over. His company has been through Chapter 11 and now they have nothing. He’s a pariah in this industry, so what does he have to lose if he harasses you?” Rico rested his hands on the table in front of him.
“Casino life is hard and the business is cut-throat. Jimmy ingrained that into me from the day he adopted me. I’ll be careful. I promise.” She gave Rico a reassuring smile. “I don’t want anything to happen to me, either if that makes you feel any better.”
“Plus it will be hard to get to know that Hoosier Hottie if you have a detail following you around.” Hadley added helpfully.
“Hadley!” She felt her cheeks burn. God she wasn’t a prude, how could she be after living and working in Sin City? Her body’s response frustrated her.
Blade ran his fingers over his tablet and a photo of Remington Cooper flashed up on the flat screen hanging on the wall behind her chair. “I’ve done some research. This guy can take care of Frankie. I’m not worried. If he’s around her, she’ll be fine.” He flashed what could only be described as a shit-eating grin. “He’s had training, very specialized training, in the military. Plus he’s not too bad looking is he?”
“I suppose that he could protect her, but the question is, would he?” Rico looked straight at Frankie.
“Oh, I think he’d like to get next to Frankie any way he could.” Hadley winked and gave a salacious smile. “The man has been very busy pursuing our Francesca.”
“Enough.” She gave her friends an evil look. “I only talk to Remy because he is chairing the panel that I’m a part of.” She prayed that her hands weren’t shaking. Her attraction to Remy was becoming a problem. No matter what she told her body, it throbbed whenever she thought about him. “I think you all are exaggerating this just a little.” She displayed a half inch of space between her thumb and index finger.
She watched them exchange looks. This was the problem with spending so much time together. There were no secrets.
Review: Caught up in Raine by L.G. O’Connor
Caught Up in RAINE
A Novel by L.G. O’Connor
Collins-Young Publishing April 2016
ISBN: 978-0-990738-12-1 (Trade Paperback) $16.95
ISBN: 978-0-990738-15-2 (eBook) $3.99
Publication Date: April 18, 2016
Media Inquiries | Interview and Excerpt Requests
Contact: Kim Miller, Nancy Berland Public Relations | Publicist kmiller@nancyberland.com
April Eberhardt, AE Literary | Agent april@aprileberhardt.com
L.G. O’Connor | Author lg@lgoconnor.com
Caught Up in RAINE by L.G. O’Connor
An unforgettable debut in romantic women’s fiction, Caught Up in RAINE captures the struggle of a woman who must reconcile guilt from her past with the promise of a future as her life intersects with a much younger man who offers her a second chance to get “caught up” in love on her road to redemption.
“Don’t judge a book by its cover model”
Forty-two and widowed, romance writer Jillian Grant believes hospitals equal death. Plagued by loss and convinced more is imminent when her aunt ends up in critical condition after heart surgery; she has come to equate the absence of pain with happiness. When she spots a hot, young landscaper working on the hospital grounds with an eerie resemblance to the male lead in her next novel, she convinces him to pose as her cover model.
Working multiple jobs to put himself through college, twenty-four-year-old Raine MacDonald is no stranger to loss. Behind his handsome face and rockin’ body lies family tragedy and agonizing secrets. When circumstances put him back in the path of his abusive father, fate delivers Jillian as his unwitting savior. Thing is, when he thinks of her, his thoughts are far from platonic.
Despite their age difference, Jillian and Raine discover they’re more alike than they could ever imagine. But torn between facing her own fears and grasping a chance at
happiness, Jillian makes a soul-shattering decision that threatens to blow their world apart.
Distributed by Ingram, CAUGHT UP IN RAINE is available in both Trade Paperback and eBook formats and can be purchased wherever fine books are sold.
For more information visit: http://www.caughtupinraine.com
4.5 Stars
Jillian a widowed woman who feels death is out to those she loves. She’s suffered the loss of too many in her short years. A talented writer and photographer, she allows her work to be an outlet. She hid behind her loss until an unlikely young man hits her sense for passion. Igniting a fire she can’t control.
Raine was an amazing character. Working his way through school. Beyond wise for his years. A true gentleman. He too, suffered lost that he carries with him constantly. Raine is remarkable mature. He’s one of those, what I call, little things men. He captured this readers heart.
I never thought when I picked up Caught Up in Raine I would need a box tissues when I finished. Wow! This book was fabulous. Emotional, real, raw and fun. Raine and Jillian worked so well together. The age difference between the two was really just a number. The passion was slow and building. They discovered each other while filling in love. Their were each other yin to yang! The chemistry is off the charts and the emotions hit right in the heart. A fantastic read buy a new to me author.
A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection.
About the Author:
L.G. O’Connor is a member of the Romance Writers of America. A corporate strategy, branding, and marketing executive for a Fortune 250 company, she writes adult paranormal and contemporary romance. Caught Up in RAINE is the first romantic women’s fiction novel in her Caught Up in Love series. She is also the author of the four-book urban fantasy / paranormal romance series The Angelorum Twelve Chronicles. The third full length novel in that series, Book of Four Rings, is set to launch in 2016. L.G. lives a life of adventure, navigating her way through dog toys and soccer balls. When she’s feeling particularly brave, she enters the kitchen . . .
Find & Follow L.G. O’Connor Online:
Website/Blog: http://www.lgoconnor.com
Twitter: @lgoconnor1
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/lgoconnor1
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7690970.L_G_O_Connor
Book site: http://www.caughtupinraine.com
Q&A with LG O’Connor, author of Caught Up in RAINE
1. Why do you write what you write?
LGO: Great question! I’ve been an avid reader my entire life, and have read everything from classics to pulp. Being a fast reader, I’ve never let the size of a book deter me. If anything, the bigger the better as long as the story is good and the characters are engaging. I read to escape with characters I can love, and for that profound ‘something’ the leaves me with a book hangover when I’m finished. I try to write with the same things in mind, and since I like to stick with characters for a little while, I’m drawn to series. But when it gets down to it, I write books that I want to read.
2. Given that you are still in the middle of writing an epic Urban Fantasy / Paranormal Romance series that won’t be fully released until mid-2017, what inspired you to switch genres midstream and write a romantic women’s fiction novel?
LGO: Funny, I didn’t choose to be a writer, it chose me. The same thing happened with this story. The first chapter in CUIR was inspired by something that actually happened to me, and became the impetus for writing the book.
Late on a Friday afternoon in August 2013, I made a trip to the hospital to see my childhood friend’s father who had emergency heart surgery. Just like Vera, he was eighty-two years old. I’d known him my entire life, and loved him like an uncle. When I arrived—having just completed a dialysis treatment—he was fast asleep. So I sat there quietly for about an hour and reflected. It was the last time I saw him alive.
At the time of my visit, I was working on final copyedits for my first novel, TRINITY STONES. One of the series characters is rock star, Brett King, who physically resembles the model on the cover of CUIR. When I was leaving the hospital grounds that day, I spotted a landscaping crew planting trees. You guessed it…one of the landscapers looked just like Brett. Tanned, muscular, long blond hair… I was so tempted to jam on the brakes and ask to take his picture. Of course, I didn’t. But that left me with the question: what would’ve happened if I had? The result is Caught Up in RAINE.
3. Are there any writers in the contemporary romance / women’s fiction genres who particularly influenced you?
LGO: First, let me talk a little bit about new adult, which is a sub-genre of contemporary romance. Despite the fact this book doesn’t qualify due to Jillian’s age, that sub-genre is what inspired me. Interesting, if it were reversed, and Jillian was Raine’s age? It would qualify.
When I wrote CUIR, new adult was taking off. I adored the immediacy of using dual first person point-of-view. I decided to go the route of Jasinda Wilder and use first person, present tense. There are a lot of people who find it akin to nails on a chalkboard, but I think it lends itself to a fast-moving story with deep point-of-view. Even though CUIR is classified as romantic women’s fiction, I used the conventions I loved so much in new adult because it was just plain fun to write, and added the energy that I was looking for.
As for the writers who inspired me? The epicenter of it all was Jasinda Wilder’s book, Falling Into You. By then, I’d already read and fallen in love with Cora Carmack’s Faking It, Laura Kaye’s Hearts in Darkness, and Jamie McGuire’s Beautiful Disaster which left me with a book hangover for about a week. Others I’ve discovered and enjoyed since then: H.M. Ward’s Damaged: The Ferro Family, Karina Halle’s The Pact, Vi Keeland’s Worth the Fight, anything by Katy Regnery, Jennifer Armentrout (writing as J. Lynn), and Maya Banks.
4. I understand this book was written during National Novel Writing Month in 2013, is that correct?
LGO: Yes! That question: “What would’ve happened if I’d stopped my car and asked that landscaper to pose as my cover model?” kept rolling around in my head. I’d just turned in the final pages of TRINITY STONES to the publisher, and the first draft of the second novel in the series was staring me in the face. Then in mid-October 2013, I had this weird schedule where I needed to be in Pennsylvania for work three days in a row. I live in New Jersey, so that was a three hour commute each day. On the morning of the first day, the question of the landscaper can back up and grabbed me with a vengeance. I’m a sworn pantser, but by the end of the third day, I had voice recorded an entire outline for the novel. That was a first for me.
My pen hit the proverbial page, and by the start of NaNo on November 1st, I had over 25,000 words written. By Black Friday, I’d finished the novel with more than 50,000 words written during the month of November, for a final word count of 82,000 words. My critique partner read the story as I wrote it, so revisions were being made simultaneously to the story being written. My editor, who was also one of my NaNo buddies, was on standby to copyedit the
manuscript as soon as it was completed. My goal was to make a December contest deadline. Honestly, I’m not sure how I did it. The book grew organically out of my brain and through my fingertips. I wish every book was like that…
5. That contest was the RWA Golden Heart® Contest, wasn’t it? How did you do?
LGO: Yes, it was! That year was the last time I would qualify as an unpublished writer, since, technically, the only contract I’d signed at the time was a distribution agreement with She Writes Press.
It wasn’t until a month after the Golden Heart® finalists were announced that I’d received the results. I’d only missed the cut by 1 point. I found that extremely encouraging given the number of contest applicants.
6. You used a local setting close to where you live. Any particular reason why you chose suburban towns rather than the big city locales of your fantasy series?
LGO: Well, for one, I’ve lived in all these places J I’m a former resident of both Chatham and Summit, and currently live about ten minutes from downtown Morristown. I chose a local setting and venues for a couple of specific reasons. Since this was a NaNoWriMo project, I needed to spend my time writing, not researching. Choosing a local setting gave me the advantage of knowing the locations well enough to write from my own experience. Another advantage in “staying local” is that it gives me a logistical advantage to go deep in my local market without traveling, and yet bring all those relationships and resources to bear. Plus, I get a warm feeling driving through downtown Morristown, and seeing the real-life buildings that I patterned my CUIR locations after… I sometimes wonder if I’ll spot someone who looks like Raine walking across the Green.
7. One of the big questions I think many will have is the age of your heroine, and the choice to do a reverse May-December romance. Are you afraid this may impact your chances to capture a romance audience? Also, this book focuses a lot on the romance and is written in dual first person point-of-view, which gives the male lead equal footing in the narrative – how do you think this will impact your women’s fiction readers?
LGO: In a lot of ways, this is just as much Raine’s story as it is Jillian’s, which distinguishes CUIR from hardcore women’s fiction.
As for Jillian, I think the market needs more books like this for the demographic of readers out there. I think Jillian’s voice resonates with women
of a certain age, I being one of them. Jillian is an attractive woman in her 40s, but she’s far from dead. Yet there’s this negative connotation out there about women over forty in the romance market, signaling to me an underserved segment of readers.
Jillian struggles in a very real way over the age difference between herself and Raine. She’s not a cougar looking for young men. Yet that’s how the market is showcasing stories about older women in this scenario. In CUIR, my intent is to realistically show how an almost impossible pairing can be near perfect based on who these individuals are, and what has shaped them.
I think this book will resonate broadly across markets. However, traditional women’s fiction tends to have a higher level of angst and complexity than I write. As much as I enjoy a good Jodi Picoult book, you won’t find that level of intensity here. I try to use enough angst without making it the entire focus of the story. As a result, this book is more of a hybrid between contemporary romance and woman’s fiction, hence the “romantic women’s fiction” moniker. In it you’ll have spicy love scenes, and a “happily ever after” that is well deserved.
8. Is it true that this book may be part of a trilogy?
LGO: Hmm. I can answer that two ways. Caught Up in RAINE will have two companion novelettes that follow it, so I guess you could say it is a trilogy. Kind of. However, I’ve just finished the first draft of a second full length novel with the working title, Shelter My Heart, about Jillian’s niece Jenny and a young CEO-in-training. In it, many of the CUIR characters reprise their roles. I’m also planning on writing a third book that involves… Well, I’ll keep that one a secret for now. That said, I’m not going to declare it a series yet J
9. Are there themes that tie this potential trilogy together beside the family connection between the main female characters?
LGO: There are two driving themes, really. Each of the female protagonists harbors a shameful secret, and in their own way, they’re all seeking redemption. It’s about finding second chances, and surrendering yourself over to living your best life.
ARC Review and Excerpt: Ride Hard by Laura Kaye
Laura Kaye has something hot and fun and new to share with you today – a scene from her upcoming book, Ride Hard, the first in her Raven Riders Motorcycle Club series about a new kind of MC with a protective mission. You might’ve first met the Ravens in the Hard Ink world, but this series stands on its own and is even sexier, edgier, and grittier! So read on for a taste and grab your copy of the first book in this sexy new series!
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Get a FREE bonus story from Laura’s Hearts in Darkness world for buying RIDE HARD before April 30!
About Ride Hard (Raven Riders #1):
Brotherhood. Club. Family.
They live and ride by their own rules.
These are the Raven Riders…
Raven Riders Motorcycle Club President Dare Kenyon rides hard and values loyalty above all else. He’ll do anything to protect the brotherhood of bikers—the only family he’s got—as well as those who can’t defend themselves. So when mistrustful Haven Randall lands on the club’s doorstep scared that she’s being hunted, Dare takes her in, swears to keep her safe, and pushes to learn the secrets overshadowing her pretty smile.
Haven fled from years of abuse at the hands of her criminal father and is suspicious of any man’s promises, including those of the darkly sexy and overwhelmingly intense Ravens’ leader. But as the powerful attraction between them flares to life, Dare pushes her boundaries and tempts her to want things she never thought she could.
The past never dies without a fight, but Dare Kenyon’s never backed down before…
EXCERPT
I’m thrilled to be celebrating the release of my 25th novel, Ride Hard, the first book in my Raven Riders Motorcycle Club series about a new kind of MC with a protective mission. You might’ve first met the Ravens in the Hard Ink world, but this series stands on its own and is even sexier, edgier, and grittier! I can’t wait for you to get to know Dare, Haven, and everyone in the Raven world! And see down below for a giveaway and a bonus story offer! I hope you enjoy this excerpt from the book!
Excerpt from Ride Hard:
Dare jerked back from kissing Haven, his fingers rubbing roughly over his lips. “Fuck, I’m sorry.”
On instinct, Haven’s body pursued his, pinning his back to the railing. “Please don’t stop,” she said as her hands gripped his shoulders. She had the strongest urge to climb him, to wrap her legs around him, to grind against the hard bulge pressing electrically against her belly.
“Please,” she whispered, tilting her mouth toward his. “I liked it.”
Dare’s hand cupped the back of her head. “You’re killing me.”
“Dare,” she said, her body restless against his.
In a move that sent the world spinning, he flipped them around so that she was the one pinned against the railing. He pushed his legs between hers and leaned down over her, forcing her to arch her back, to yield, to open to him. “Tell me what you want from me. Say the words,” he said, his eyes absolutely on fire.
Her heart was a runaway train in her chest, frantic and picking up speed. The thought of giving voice to her desires was terrifying and thrilling and dizzying all at once.
“I want your mouth,” she said. The words sounded odder out loud than they had in her head, but they were more accurate than asking him to kiss her—because her mouth wasn’t the only place she wanted his.
“Jesus,” he rasped, his mouth coming down on hers once more.
The whimper she released was part relief, part anticipation. It had been so long since she’d kissed someone that she felt a little uncertain, but Dare’s intensity barely allowed her the capacity to worry about it. He was like a dark storm bearing down on her, relentless, magnetic, all-consuming.
Rough callouses from his hands scratched against her cheeks as he guided her. Hard breaths spilled over her lips, and the wet slide of his tongue tasted like whiskey and desire and man. Her hands found the soft length of his hair, and her breasts pushed against the hard plane of his chest.
Then her lips were freed as his mouth slid over her skin—exploring her cheek, her jaw, her ear, her neck. He hiked her up to sit on the wide railing, the move surprising a gasp out of her, especially as he crowded the space between her legs, pushing himself closer, bringing his erection against the place between her legs craving friction, hardness, so much more of him. Maybe even all of him.
One strong arm wrapped around her back and held her steady, while the other hand stroked her hair, her face, her breast. The soft groans and breathy grunts spilling out of him were delicious and thrilling, and bolstered her confidence that she wasn’t the only one losing herself in this moment, in these touches. She almost couldn’t believe this was happening, and part of her was certain she must be dreaming. Because Haven Randall didn’t have beautiful things in her life. At least, never before.
Order on Amazon | B&N | iBooks | Kobo
Add to your Goodreads
Don’t forget you can grab HARD AS STEEL, a Hard Ink/Raven Riders Crossover Novella out now and pre-order RIDE ROUGH, book 2 in the Raven Riders Series (out April 25, 2017)!
5 Stars
Haven’s wise beyond the years of her body. Living a life of fear in the crazy world her father made her a pawn in. From dictation to freedom, Haven is like a bird breaking from it shell to learn the world.
Dare Kenyon is an experienced man. Alpha, commanding and so, so sexy. He always has the seriousness surrounding him. Yet, his heart is huge and his protective nature put some in a class all of his own. He’s complex, which makes me like him all the more.
Laura Kaye sizzles her way into the MC world with the first books of her new Raven Ryder’s series, RIDE HARD. Raw emotions, danger and blissful passion have readers hanging on tight. Ms. Kaye’s MC world is not the typical one. While action and activities of the Ravens may skirt the law, these men and women truly believe in brotherhood and helping those who can’t help themselves. Protection and safety, while giving. They are a hardcore family who opens their arm willingly.
Ride Hard sets the stage for what I believe is one hell of a ride for the series.
And E copy was provided for an honest review.
About Laura Kaye:
Laura is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over twenty books in contemporary and paranormal romance and romantic suspense, including the Hard Ink and upcoming Raven Riders series. Growing up, Laura’s large extended family believed in the supernatural, and family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses cemented in Laura a life-long fascination with storytelling and all things paranormal. She lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.
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April 18th
Love Drug Book Blog – Review & Excerpt
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Books According to Abby – Review & Excerpt
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The Bookish & The Romantic – Review & Excerpt
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Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous – Review & Excerpt
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Romancing the Readers – Review
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RELEASE WEEK BLITZ!
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NightWolf Book Blog – Review
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Hot Guys in Books – Review & Excerpt
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April 30th
A Brit and a Yank – Excerpt
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Release Blitz+ARC Review: Dirty by Kylie Scott
Dirty
Kylie Scott
Dive Bar Series, Book 1
The last thing Vaughan Hewson expects to find when he returns to his childhood home is a broken hearted bride in his shower, let alone the drama and chaos that comes with her.
Lydia Green doesn’t know whether to burn down the church or sit and cry in a corner. Discovering the love of your life is having an affair on your wedding day is bad enough. Finding out it’s with his best man is another thing all together. She narrowly escapes tying the knot and meets Vaughan only hours later.
Vaughan is the exact opposite of the picture perfect, respected businessman she thought she’d marry. This former musician-turned-bartender is rough around the edges and unsettled. But she already tried Mr. Right and discovered he’s all wrong-maybe it’s time to give Mr. Right Now a chance.
After all, what’s wrong with getting dirty?
Are you ready to get Dirty?
Dirty is Book One in Kylie Scott’s Dive Bar Series
is FINALLY here!
NOW LIVE!
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/1Q7LCyb
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/1OYc53N
iBooks: http://apple.co/1TOAhIG
Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/1MetF1F
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1Mez6t6
A bride running from her wedding. A Musician down on his luck. An awkward meeting in a tub. Yes my friends, this is what sets the stage for what this reviewer feels is going to top Kylie Scott’s Stage Dive Series. DIRTY, book one of the new Dive Bar Series.
Vaughan is more that what his dark persona leads people to believe. A man who lost just lost his dream never realized he’d find what he needs in life is at home. Omg, this man I want to lick and lick again. He’s complex and deep. He’s caring and a gentlemen when need. I totally fell for him.
Lydia’s life is a hot mess and bat shit crazy all rolled into one. A sassy woman who’s had her heart messed with a time or two. She straight up funny. Her heart has been through the mill yet she still finds it in her to care about other.
Humor, heart, hotness and lots of emotions! It’s hard to decide if the passion or the witty banter takes first place. Kylie Scott gives the readers a cast of intense, charismatic, and complex personalities in a setting that draws folks in, wanting to take a seat. I guarantee you at the completion of this book you will be more than ready for more of the happenings of the Dive Bar.
An amazing 5 Star read and a Top Read of 2016!
Review copy provided by netgalley for an honest review.
Kylie is a long time fan of erotic love stories and B-grade horror films. She demands a happy ending and if blood and carnage occur along the way then all the better. Based in Queensland, Australia with her two children and one delightful husband, she reads, writes and never dithers around on the internet.
Kylie is represented by Amy Tannenbaum at the Jane Rotrosen Agency, New York.
Stalk Kylie Scott: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
Review: Conquering India by Melissa Schroeder
Conquering India
Melissa Schroeder
Texas Temptations Series, Book 1
Kindle Edition
Expected publication: April 19th 2016 by Harmless Publishing (first published 2010)
Caterer India Singer is getting her life on track, hoping to make it big with her new company. She doesn’t need any distractions…especially a younger man. She won’t get involved with another man destined to leave her. But security expert Wade Thompson won’t take no for an answer.
Wade knows exactly what he wants and just how to get it. He’s pulling out the stops because he’s sure India’s the woman for him and his best friend and business partner, Marc Jasper. Marc isn’t too sure and tries to keep India at arm’s length. When a threat to India has her in constant contact with Marc, the lure of the curvy older woman is too much to ignore. But when both men raise the stakes and ask for more than just a fling, will India play it safe to protect her heart, or will she take another chance on love?
This is a reissue and has been edited for content.
4 Stars
India is starting to making a name for herself as her new life begins to unfold. A smart and business savvy woman. When it comes to catering an event she holds all the confidence in the world. When it comes to herself, she been torn down by an ex, causing emotional scarring that doesn’t allow her to see who she truly is. A woman with a heart and one hell of a backbone.
Wade and Marc share a bond deeper than friendship. Spending time in the military together, experiencing horrific missions and finding an unconventional way to experience pleasure tie these two tighter together than the average person could understand. In an odd way these two huge personalities balance each other out. You can’t help but to to love them from the moment of meeting.
Passionate, erotic and a touch of suspense. Melissa Schroeder gives the reader a quick, full of personality and sexy read with Conquering India. Marc and Wade will melt your heart with their dominance and passion. India is a perfect example of what a strong woman can and will do. A sensually erotic ménage that will heat you as hot as Texas sun.
And E copy was provided for an honest review.
Excerpt: Let It Ride by Melanie Jayne
Let it Ride by Melanie Jayne
Date of Publication: April 14, 2016
Blurb
The first time he met her, he couldn’t have her. In their world there are rules against that kind of interaction. So Remington Cooper watched, waited, and planned.
Now his luck has turned and he five days to win the woman of his dream’s heart.
Francesca Luchetti knows that Remy is interested, he’s made that clear. She likes the idea of a fling. Conventions can be dull, so the promise of sex with a hot man will make things more exciting.
When there is a threat to Francesca’s safety, she learns that Remy is the man to keep her safe, but is she ready to gamble with her heart?
Available From
About Melanie Jayne
I live on a grain farm southeast of Indianapolis, Indiana with my very patient husband of twenty-five years and our two English Mastiffs, Buster Brown and Ginger. I graduated from Indiana University when it was the #1 party school in the country and I took great pride in helping the school achieve that ranking.
I haven’t figured out what I want to be when I grow up. I change careers every decade. I have worked in retail, a federal courtroom, travelled across the state closing loans, and behind the scenes in a casino.
I’ve always had an active imagination so when a good friend suggested that I try writing a book, I thought why not, it should be fun. It has, but I have had to work very hard to learn how to do it. I am so lucky for the outpouring of advice and education from so many in the industry, plus the hand-holding and cheerleading from My Gurls. I also have an incredible Ad-man-istrative Assistant, who tries to keep me under control. He rolls his eyes so much that I worry about a permanent condition.
When I ‘m not working or writing type stuff, I sleep, watch courtroom TV shows, and sports. I was a competitive pro-am ballroom dancer for ten years and I read as many books as I can.
I love to attend Author-Reader Conventions and look forward to meeting you.
Find Melanie Jayne Online
Teaser
“I don’t like that a self-proclaimed enemy of Jimmy’s might be attending this event. He’s mentioned you by name in several of his rants.” Blade’s soft voice radiated concern.
“His career is over. His company has been through Chapter 11 and now they have nothing. He’s a pariah in this industry, so what does he have to lose if he harasses you?” Rico rested his hands on the table in front of him.
“Casino life is hard and the business is cut-throat. Jimmy ingrained that into me from the day he adopted me. I’ll be careful. I promise.” She gave Rico a reassuring smile. “I don’t want anything to happen to me, either if that makes you feel any better.”
“Plus it will be hard to get to know that Hoosier Hottie if you have a detail following you around.” Hadley added helpfully.
“Hadley!” She felt her cheeks burn. God she wasn’t a prude, how could she be after living and working in Sin City? Her body’s response frustrated her.
Blade ran his fingers over his tablet and a photo of Remington Cooper flashed up on the flat screen hanging on the wall behind her chair. “I’ve done some research. This guy can take care of Frankie. I’m not worried. If he’s around her, she’ll be fine.” He flashed what could only be described as a shit-eating grin. “He’s had training, very specialized training, in the military. Plus he’s not too bad looking is he?”
“I suppose that he could protect her, but the question is, would he?” Rico looked straight at Frankie.
“Oh, I think he’d like to get next to Frankie any way he could.” Hadley winked and gave a salacious smile. “The man has been very busy pursuing our Francesca.”
“Enough.” She gave her friends an evil look. “I only talk to Remy because he is chairing the panel that I’m a part of.” She prayed that her hands weren’t shaking. Her attraction to Remy was becoming a problem. No matter what she told her body, it throbbed whenever she thought about him. “I think you all are exaggerating this just a little.” She displayed a half inch of space between her thumb and index finger.
She watched them exchange looks. This was the problem with spending so much time together. There were no secrets.
Coffee Books Life 