New Release (Excerpt): Fall For Me by JC Emery

 

Melanie Kincaid is a trust-fund baby with a knack for sassy comebacks and unnecessarily complicating her privileged life. So, of course she would have to fall in love with a man she can’t have.

Jameson Hayes is a NYC firefighter for Manhattan’s oldest ladder company with big shoes to fill and a city to protect. He’s strong, sexy, and not looking for the complications Melanie brings. But he can’t stay away from her either. The attraction between them is immediate and the pull between them is crazy powerful. But she’s only home for the summer and long-distance relationships never work.

Unfortunately, Melanie’s beauty and smart mouth are a lethal combination and Jameson isn’t the only Hayes who’s interested. As if his brother isn’t enough to compete with, now the city’s most famous arsonist wants to claim her as his next prize. Jameson can’t stand to watch Melanie get hurt and she can’t seem to keep herself out of trouble.

Fall for Me is the first Ladder Company novel, a stand-alone companion series about New York’s most elite firefighting family with hot alpha heroes, snarky heroines, and an arsonist hell-bent on destruction.

 ADD TO GOODREADS

 

 

“Mom!” I move through the foyer and into the open great room— a large, open living/kitchen combo— where I leave my suitcase and kick off my flats before I hit the carpet. What the hell is she doing with gas? That stuff is toxic.

“Well?” Mom says, appearing at the edge of the hall on the other side of the kitchen. She has a hand towel around her neck and one of her many yoga-specific exercise outfits on. This one is a light blue and she’s barefoot. Monica Kincaid is dedicated to many things in life— her husband Christian, her daughters (the youngest, especially), and her charity projects— but yoga is the one out of all of it that I don’t understand. It puts her at peace, she says.

“Well?” I ask and drape the dress bag over the island counter top in the kitchen and move around to prop myself up on one of the bar stools. God, that gasoline smell is driving me mad.

“Are we planning a spring wedding yet or what?” Mom says with a grin. Her nose wrinkles, catching the scent of the gasoline, I’m sure. “Janet and I have been taking bets.”

“God, Mom,” I say and place my head in my hands.

“No really,” she says, “Tell me.”

“Nothing happened,” I say. Verbalizing it is even more disappointing than it probably should be. Apparently, Mom and Dad were also in on Jameson and Royal’s surprise trip. It took all of an hour after they landed for Janet Hayes to text me telling me she wishes she could have been there. It was sweet, but then she suggested she needed to leave me alone so I could spend as much time as possible with Jameson. And that we shouldn’t be disturbed. While the level of investment our mothers have in our has-yet-to-happen relationship is borderline creepy, the support is pretty awesome. It’s a rarity to find a woman as kind and loving as Janet Hayes is. Even if she doesn’t really know appropriate boundaries and likes to talk about when her sons were starting puberty… in all the gory details. I know more about Jameson’s solo activities when he was a kid more than I care to.

“You must be joking,” she says and heads to the fridge where she pulls out a single-serve cup of yogurt. “That man flew down to that god-awful place—,”

 

 

 

 

 

 

As a child, JC was fascinated by things that went bump in the night. As they say, some things never change. Now, as an adult, she divides her time between the sexy law men, mythical creatures, and kick-ass heroines that live inside her head and pursuing her bachelor’s degree in English. JC is a San Francisco Bay Area native, but has also called both Texas and Louisiana home. These days she rocks her flip flops year round in Northern California and can’t imagine a climate more beautiful.

JC writes adult, new adult, and young adult fiction. She dabbles in many different genres including science fiction, horror, chick lit, and murder mysteries, yet she is most enthralled by supernatural stories– and everything has at least a splash of romance.

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Book Review: The Mistake by Elle Kennedy

Title: The Mistake (Off-Campus #2)
Author: Elle Kennedy
Genre: Sports Romance
Length: 358 pages
Rating: 5 stars

He’s a player in more ways than one…

College junior John Logan can get any girl he wants. For this hockey star, life is a parade of parties and hook-ups, but behind his killer grins and easygoing charm, he hides growing despair about the dead-end road he’ll be forced to walk after graduation. A sexy encounter with freshman Grace Ivers is just the distraction he needs, but when a thoughtless mistake pushes her away, Logan plans to spend his final year proving to her that he’s worth a second chance.

Now he’s going to need to up his game…

After a less than stellar freshman year, Grace is back at Briar University, older, wiser, and so over the arrogant hockey player she nearly handed her V-card to. She’s not a charity case, and she’s not the quiet butterfly she was when they first hooked up. If Logan expects her to roll over and beg like all his other puck bunnies, he can think again. He wants her back? He’ll have to work for it. This time around, she’ll be the one in the driver’s seat…and she plans on driving him wild.

Elle Kennedy has done it again with The Mistake. If you have read The Deal, you already know about John Logan. What, you haven’t read The Deal? You can read The Mistake as a standalone, but seriously, get The Deal. Well just in case you haven’t read The Deal, let me try to summarize John Logan. He’s a Junior at Briar University, hot hockey player and all around man whore around campus. Side note, I loved how my dirty red (Grace, that is our nickname for her) has already staked a claim on Logan. It must be because a) Logan is hot; b) he’s a hockey player and c) the girl he falls in love with, her name also happens to be Grace! But I digress. Moving on.

Grace Ivers, freshman at Briar University, shy and quiet and with her V card still intact (pun intended). Grace and her roommate/BFF Ramona are hanging out at a frat party. Grace is so not having fun until she bumps into Logan coming out of the bathroom looking all smug after hooking up with a girl in said bathroom! I adored Grace from the very beginning. I loved how smart she was and although a bit shy, she still could hold her own. I especially loved her blabbering and her love for all things Die Hard. I was a huge Die Hard fan myself back in the days.

If you read The Deal, you know Logan has a serious crush on his best friend Garret’s girlfriend Hannah. In order for Logan not to have these misguided feelings for Hannah, he does what he does best, parties hard and gets laid. Until one day he accidentally ends up in Grace’s dorm room. Logan is already excited that Grace has an affinity towards action movies, so he decides to hang out with her. Logan finds Grace’s blabbering endearing, especially the Ted Bundy references (those had me laughing out loud). So things get a little hot and heavy between Logan and Grace, lots of first, second and some third base things (I know it’s a hockey book, but I had to put my baseball metaphors). Let’s just say he left Grace without the O and he knows it even though she lied about it. He will make it his mission because he is John Logan and he’s never left a woman wanting.

Grace still cannot believe she’s sought of hooked up with Logan and proceeds to tell her BFF Ramona (bad idea), well let’s just say that none of her so called friends believe said hook up and is being trashed via social media. Logan gets wind of this and rectifies the situation. I usually love the BFFs in books, but I DID NOT like Ramona.

While Grace and Logan continue to hang out, things got a little too serious for Logan and let’s just say that things took a turn that ended their hook ups.

The school year ends, Logan’s team made the frozen four, Grace decides to go to France for the Summer to visit her mom. After Logan has a heart-to-heart with Hannah, he realizes what he has lost. Seeing the light, he wants Grace, unfortunately she’s away. She won’t return his calls, texts etc. Grace comes back to Briar a new girl. She’s not going to let the Logans of the world deter her.

Logan has other things in mind. He’s determined to win Grace’s heart back. I loved how Grace gives Logan a “To-Do List” of things to show his affections. Throughout, you see their love for each other while Logan is also struggling with family issues. His dad is in need of some serious help, so much so, that Logan is foregoing going pro, that broke my heart.

I love Elle Kennedy’s writing style and if you’re not a fan of NA, she will make you love it. When writing her sex scenes she does it tastefully. Her storytelling does not lag either, you will be laughing out loud one minute and reaching for a tissue the next. I’m a big fan for sure. I cannot wait to add more of Ms. Kennedy’s books to my ever growing TBR list.

I will leave you with a few of my favorite quotes:

Grace mental dialogue: I just had an entire conversation with a cute guy without babbling incoherently. I deserve a frickin’ gold star for that.

This one was swoon worth, Logan talking live on the radio regarding Grace: “No, I’m talking about Grace,” Logan says, smiling through the glass. “Grace Elizabeth Ivers. The woman I love.”

– Michelle

*An ARC was provided for an honest review.

Click on the image below to purchase the previous book in the series:

Book Review: Overruled by Emma Chase

Title: Overruled (Legal Briefs #1)
Author: Emma Chase
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Humor
Length: 272 pages
Rating: 4.5 stars

As a DC defense attorney, Stanton Shaw keeps his head cool, his questions sharp, and his arguments irrefutable. They don’t call him the Jury Charmer for nothing – with his southern drawl, disarming smile and captivating green eyes – he’s a hard man to say no to. Men want to be him and women want to be thoroughly cross examined by him.

Stanton’s a man with a plan. And for a while, life was going according to that plan.

Until the day he receives an invitation to the wedding of his high school sweetheart and mother of his beloved ten-year old daughter. Jenny is getting married — to someone who isn’t him.

That’s definitely not part of the plan.
***

Sofia Santos is a city raised, no-nonsense litigator who plans to become the most revered criminal defense attorney in the country. She doesn’t have time for relationships or distractions.

But when Stanton, her “friend with mind-blowing benefits” begs for help, she finds herself out of her element, out of her depth, and obviously out of her mind. Because she agrees to go with him – to The-Middle-Of-Nowhere, Mississippi – to do all she can to help Stanton win back the woman he loves.

Her head tells her she’s crazy…and her heart says something else entirely.
***

What happens when you mix a one stop-light town, two professional arguers, a homecoming queen, four big brothers, some Jimmy Dean sausage and a gun-toting Nana?

The Bourbon flows, passions rise and even the best laid plans get overruled by the desires of the heart.

In the first book of this author’s new series, we meet the sweet southern boy, Stanton, who has a life plan with his girl, Jenny.  But life throws them a curve-ball, and the two react in the strangest of ways.

Fast forward 11 or so years later. Stanton still has his plan.  In his head, Jenny is still his girl.  Even though the live in completely different states, and see other people.  But have no worries, it’s all just casual. Riiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiight, that’s how it always starts.

Although the L word is only used by towards one person in the beginning, this story is clearly a love triangle.  Just not the typical one.
Stanton loves Jenny.
Jenny has a past with Stanton, but no longer loves him in that way.
Sofia has a friends with benefits relationship with Stanton, but its obvious, it means more to both of them then they admit.

Throughout the story, I really didn’t know what to think of Stanton.  He’s got all the qualities of the perfect BBF, except one.  His heart wasn’t were I wanted it to be.  And as you read the story, you sense his heart might not actually be where he things it is, he’s just so focused on “the plan” that he can’t see what’s right in front of him.

Stanton and Sofia are seriously hot together. This quote alone says is all:
I grip my dick firmly, pumping slow, then trace the tip over Sofia’s lips, spreading the moisture already there across them.
I look into those eyes, eyes a man could drown in if he’s not careful – and I tell her, “Open.”

5 alarm fire, H-O-T!!!  Yowza!

While I wasn’t sure what I thought about Stanton, I loved Sofia.  I’ll admit, I didn’t quite understand how she could do the “friends with benefits” thing without getting attached.  She so bravely supported Stanton’s quest to get back the “love of his life”, not herself.  At first I didn’t understand how she could distance herself, but little by little, she lets the emotion peak out, and it only made my heart break for her.

“We’re friends who fuck – that’s nothing like what me and Jenn are.”

Ouch, Stanton!

Sofia remained strong and not a whiny annoying heroine, even as she broke down, so I couldn’t fault her in any way.

As for Jenny, like Sofia, I wanted to hate her.  But it really was just impossible to do.  I could totally understand her reasoning for moving on.  How she convinces Stanton to do the same, was a bit unexpected, but I like how she pointed out all of the obvious signs he had been ignoring all along.

“You’re so stubborn – you’re so stuck on what you think is supposed to be, that you’re missin’ what’s right in front of you.”

While this book doesn’t have the laugh a sentence humor than the Tangled series did, there are still funny moments, usually from the cast of secondary characters.
Nana and her gun – She never did like “that boy” Stanton, but she offers much needed advice to him at the oddest of times.

Drew Evans – Yes, you’ll be happy to know that he makes a solid cameo in this book, as Stanton’s former frat brother.

Carter – Stanton’s hippie brother, also adds some levity with his preaching for love and forgiveness, at the most awkward moments.

Overall, this was an entertaining read. The love triangle was a bit odd and unexpected, as two people come to realize that there careful laid plains where blown up when their hearts opened up to the idea of love.  I’m really looking forward to the next two books in the series, which feature Jake and Brent, who work in DC with Stanton and Sofia.

– Grace

*An ARC was received for an honest review.

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New Release (Excerpt & Giveaway): Endless Nights by Karen Erickson

ENDLESS NIGHTS (Vegas Nights Series #2) by Karen Erickson
Erotic Romance
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The sex is crazy good. Is it crazier to want something more?
Vegas Nights, Book 2

Andrea and her two best friends have shed their nurses scrubs for a long-awaited weekend in Las Vegas, and nothing—flight delays, lost luggage, or the slightly weird guy with the sketchy invite to an exclusive bash—is going to stop their fun.

Within minutes of arriving at the opulent party, she’s deep in conversation with gorgeous, funny Luke Nelson, wide receiver for the Seattle Seahawks. For some crazy reason, he can’t seem to keep his eyes—or hands—off her.

Luke isn’t looking for a hookup, he just wants to relax…until he gets one look at the classy brunette in the barely-there dress. One minute they’re talking, the next they’re all over each other in a dark corner. It’s like he’s an addict and she’s the fix he’s been searching for all his life.

One night of hot sex isn’t nearly enough. But after a weekend spent never more than a few inches apart, the time is quickly approaching when they’ll have to make a long-distance relationship work—or break it off.

“Andrea.”

She whirled around…and there he was. Tall. Broad. Casually dressed in a navy blue T-shirt and jeans, a smile on his face, his dark eyes sparkling. Oh, he looked amazing. She could hardly believe he was standing there in front of her.

“Hi.” She hiked her purse strap over her shoulder, clinging to it like a lifeline. What should she do? What should she say? Did she have permission to throw herself at him like a lovesick girlfriend or was she supposed to act cool and composed?

“Come here.” He grabbed hold of her arm and pulled her into him, giving her a lingering kiss. Then another one. His lips were warm and damp and when he pulled away, releasing her slowly, he looked about as dazed as she felt. “We need to get the fuck out of here, and quick. You have luggage to pick up?”

She shook her head, stepping aside to display her suitcase. “This is all I brought.” Why did they need to leave so quickly? She didn’t understand.

His smile grew and he rubbed his hand along the back of his neck. “Then let’s go.”

Luke took her suitcase for her despite her protests, grabbing her hand with his free one as he escorted her out of the airport. He kept his head slightly bent, as if he didn’t want people to recognize him, and she followed his lead, glancing around as discreetly as possible to see if anyone recognized him.

If they did, they gave him his privacy, and she was thankful for it. He seemed extra determined to leave unnoticed, practically dragging her outside toward a giant parking structure. They took an elevator up five floors, the interior of it freezing cold, and he slung his arm around her shoulder and held her close, his mouth at her forehead as he whispered to her.

“I missed you.”

She rested her hand on his stomach, noting the way the muscles tensed up at her light touch. “I missed you too,” she admitted. Damn it. She’d promised herself she wouldn’t make any sort of confession like that and there she went, not even five minutes into the visit.

“You hungry?”

“No.”

“Thirsty?” He pulled away from her when the elevator came to a stop, his hand falling to her lower back as he escorted her out into the garage.
“Um, no.” What was up with the weird questions?
“Good. We’ll go straight to my place then.” The look he shot her was full of heat, his gaze running over her quickly, and she shivered as if he’d actually touched her. “You are a sight for sore eyes, I hope you know.”

That saying had never made much sense to her, but that didn’t matter at the moment because he’d missed her. Looked at her as if he wanted to gobble her up, which she was a big fan of because the man had a very talented mouth. And hands.

Hands that could catch footballs, sure, but they were also magic hands that had her trembling and falling apart rather quickly…

“Here’s my truck.” He stopped at a gleaming brand-new blue Toyota pickup and unlocked the doors with a keyless remote, going to the passenger side to open the door for her. She hopped into the truck with his assistance, turning to look at him and say thank you, but he cut her off with his lips, kissing her so fiercely she had no choice but to lean back against the seat.

She grabbed hold of the back of his neck, her mouth opening to his, letting his tongue slide inside. A groan escaped her and she tunneled her fingers into his soft hair, gasping when his big warm hand maneuvered beneath her shirt and settled on her stomach.
“We keep this up, I’ll be fucking you in the parking garage—I don’t give a damn who sees us,” he said when he finally tore his lips from hers.
Exhaling a shuddery breath, she released her hold on him. That sounded perfect, which was totally crazy. She couldn’t allow him to do any such thing to her in a public parking garage. “Take me to your place,” she murmured, making him smile.

“Will do, baby.” He shut the door and rounded the back of the truck, opening his door so he could slip her suitcase on the bench seat behind them before he hopped into the driver’s seat. “I can’t believe you’re here.”

She smiled. “I can’t believe it either.”

“I’m glad, though.” His deep voice washed over her, making her shiver, and she watched as he settled his big hand on her knee and gave it a squeeze. “Fucking ecstatic, if you want me to be honest.”

Andrea laughed, loving his honesty. Probably way too much. “Me too.”

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WICKED WEEKEND (Vegas Nights Series #.5) by Karen Erickson
Erotic Romance
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What happens in Vegas…could be a fantasy come true.
Vegas Nights, Book 0.5
Between nursing school and starting their careers, Reagan, Andrea, and Natalie have had no time for dating. After saving up for a special vacation, they’re on their way to Vegas for a long-awaited weekend of fun, sun, gambling and partying.

When their luggage goes missing, an impromptu shopping trip leads them to James, who makes them an unusual offer—to be part of the female scenery at his boss’s upcoming party. Not just any scenery, but women who are pretty in a real way, not the nipped, tucked and dyed Hollywood version.

Accept a “private party” invitation from a complete stranger? These ladies weren’t born yesterday. Yet before “no thanks” crosses their lips, Reagan discovers who James’s boss really is: Declan Carter, an actor she’s crushed on for, well, forever. Now she’s determined to be the eye candy who catches Declan’s eye. No matter what it takes…

RECKLESS NIGHTS (Vegas Nights Series #1) by Karen Erickson
Erotic Romance
Goodreads
Amazon | Amazon CA | Amazon UK | BN | Samhain | Kobo | iTunes

Sometimes dream crushes do come true.
Vegas Nights, Book 1
Reagan can’t believe her luck—and not in a good way. One minute she’s hanging out with her friends at an exclusive party in Las Vegas. The next, she’s attracted the attention of a famous actor. Not just any actor. Declan Carter, the man on which she used to—okay, might still—have a fangirl crush. Whose blue eyes leave her embarrassingly tongue tied.

All Declan wants is to meet a nice, normal woman who won’t use him as a stepping stone to fame. Something about Reagan tells him she could be that rare woman, and he follows his instinct to invite her back to his suite—where they proceed to have wild monkey sex. All. Night. Long.

What was supposed to be one night of no-regrets sex stretches out into a blissful weekend of two people who can’t get enough of each other. But when the glamour of Sin City wears off, they’re standing on the edge of a once-in-a-lifetime chance to turn a weekend fling into something lasting. Will they take the jump?

USA Today bestselling author Karen Erickson writes what she loves to read – sexy contemporary romance. Published since 2006, she’s a native Californian who lives in the foothills below Yosemite with her husband and three children.
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Book Review: Broken Juliet by Leisa Rayven

Title: Broken Juliet (Starcrossed #2)
Author: Leisa Rayven
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 288 pages
Rating: 3 stars

How do you fix a love that’s been broken beyond repair?

For years, Cassie Taylor tried to forget about Ethan Holt. He was the one great love of her life, and when he failed to return her love, a part of her died forever. Or so she thought. Now she and Ethan are sharing a Broadway stage, and he’s determined to win her back. Claiming to be a changed man, he’s finally able to say all the things she needed to hear years ago, but can she believe him? What makes this time different from all his other broken promises?

Ethan knows he can’t change their tumultuous past, but if he’s going to have any chance of being with the woman he loves, he’ll need to convince Cassie that her future belongs with him.

Don’t miss this stunning conclusion to the unforgettable love story that captivated over two million fans online.

In the second and final book, Cassie and Ethan must figure out a way to fix all their broken pieces to finally get it right and find their way to their HEA. If they don’t expire from the angst first.

The Good, The Bad and Everything In Between
-Their chemistry is still phenomenal: When I first read Bad Romeo, I was intrigued by these characters and I’m happy to say that Cassie and Ethan’s connection and the heat they can generate was still in evidence in this installment. During their love scenes, and those moments where they let down their guards and simply allowed their connection to flower, I was completely into it. If you’re main interest is super sexy chemistry between your leads, this is definitely the kind of series for you. Their love scenes were the highlight for me and helped me to remember what I loved about these two. I do love the push/pull of desire, the need to be together, and Ms. Rayven certainly has a talent for conveying how much these two desire each other.

-Starts right where we left off: Which is a good and bad thing. I love that we went straight o where things left off, so there was no long wait to see what happened at that door. Unfortunately, we also dive headlong into pages and pages of nothing but chest beating and severe emotional pain. The unbelievable neuroses that Cassie and Ethan exhibit really brought things down for me. Now, I know that they’re both actors, and that seems to be part and parcel of most actors’ psyches, but I can only take so much self-flagellation. Ethan’s determined not to hurt Cassie, so he hurts her horribly, and Cassie’s determined to protect herself, but ends up hurting herself as well. It was alot to go through without enough light hearted scenes to balance it all out. Which leads me to…

-The angst is just exhausting: There’s angst…and then there’s the kind that’s based on extreme emotional reactions that kind of overwhelm the narrative. That, in a nutshell is my main issue with this installment. Now, there was angst in the first book, but there was balanced storytelling. There were light, funny scenes that pulled me in before Ethan’s mental damage shone through. Much like that lobster sitting in a pot of water, by the time the angst turned up to the boiling point, I was already cooked. I had to know how it all turned out.

-The Cliffhanger still not a fave: The cliffhanger tortured me, because the buildup for this relationship was solid. I thought they were really interesting characters, and even knowing Ethan had some serious emotional hangups, I knew that their second breakup had to be epic. Emotionally devastating. I was concerned as to what Ethan could do to “break” Cassie so badly. Hell, I even started a prayer circle with Grace hoping that it wouldn’t be cheating because every horrible scenario ran through my mind. What I should have worried about was the angst. While it was dramatic, ultimately I have to say that had this story been kept to one volume and tightened up the narrative to not include every single agonizing moment of angst, then I really think it would have resulted in a much stronger story.

The Bottom Line
Based on chemistry alone, it would be an easy 4-5 star read. But the angst factor overwhelmed the story, so I had to settle for merely liking this installment. That said, Ms. Rayven’s writing has intrigued me, so I’d be willing to see what happens with Elissa and Liam.

– Ivy

*ARC provided by publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Click on the image below to purchase book one:

Book Review: There You Stand by Christina Lee

Title: There You Stand (Between Breaths #5)
Author: Christina Lee
Genre: Contemporary Romance, M/M
Length: 250 pages
Rating: 4 stars

Tattoo artist Cory Easton has worked long enough at Raw Ink to know, just by looking at a dude, what his body art reveals, what makes him tick, what even makes him scared. Until he meets the quiet and remote Jude York—so unreadable, so unreachable, and so unlike anyone else, he can’t help but arouse Cory’s curiosity.

As captivating and complex as his ink, Jude is a mystery—and Cory’s falling fast and hard under his spell. Against his better judgment to steer clear.

The rumors of Jude’s past overshadow him—whispers of prison and an unmentionable secret that’s kept him in the protective shadows of a local motorcycle club. As Cory probes deeper, he wonders how much he really wants to know. Especially since Jude has awakened something inside him that has been buried too long—and has him feeling completely alive for the first time in forever…

This is an emotional filled ride about trust, patience, overcoming loss, and finding love.

Having read all of the other books in this series, this initially seemed like a big jump for the author, venturing in the M/M genre. But this story follows the themes of the previous stories, with characters fighting their demons and relying on someone to help them thru the pain. In this case, both Cory and Jude have experienced tragic loss. Sadly, this similarity was only one of many reasons why their connection worked.

While the emotional weight of this book stood apart from other M/M books I have read, there was the common theme of getting someone who was unsure of their sexual preferences, to open up and commit to the idea of being with another man. Cory is a confident in his status as a gay male. I absolutely loved that his Grandmother, his only living relative, approved of his orientation, but at times, seemed to encourage him to find a new guy. God bless her! Jude on the other hand was hard to get a handle on at first. Was he straight, gay, or bi? Turns out it was the latter, but that didn’t mean their weren’t issues with the two coming together physically. The biggest issue being Jude’s ability to trust. This fear was centered on his willingness to kiss, an act he felt more intimate than sex. Given his past history, being used by someone he thought he could trust, I could understand the hesitation.

The relationship between the two was a slow build. There is a big story behind Jude’s closed off nature, which contributed to that slow development. This story had a lot of elements that appealed to me, particularly the inclusion of a suspense element. Without giving away spoilers, as Cory begins to learn about Jude’s past and the threats he faces in the present. It explained a lot about his initial lack of speaking and his hesitancy to commit to Cory publicly. I loved that the reasons for based on security and not a lack of confidence in his orientation.

While they tried to keep things on the down low in order to protect Jude’s safety, I liked how everyone around them caught on to their act and obvious attraction. I was surprised by some of the people that supported/encouraged the relationship, showing that some people are more open minded than I would have thought, and that is definitely a good thing.

Whether you are already invested in this series, or just a fan of the M/M genre, this book will appeal to you (it can be considered a standalone). The story is fresh and kept my interest throughout. And hey, can’t forget about the rimming!

– Grace

*An ARC was received via NetGalley for an honest review.

Click on the images below to purchase the previous books in the series:

Blog Tour (Book Review & Giveaway): Grind by Sawyer Bennett

Title: Grind: A Legal Affairs Story (Book #2 of Cal and Macy’s Story)
Author: Sawyer Bennett
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 145 pages
Rating: 4.5 stars

Release Date: April 21, 2015

Grind is the second book in this Legal Affairs trilogy (Cal and Macy’s Story) and is releasing on 4/21/15. Clash was released on 4/7/15 and Yield will be released on 5/5/15. Grind and Yield are full length novels, while Clash is a novella.

Grind (verb): to weaken or destroy gradually

Macy Carrington is not the woman I once thought her to be.

What she does not allow her heart to feel, she gives with her body. The sex between us is explosive and depraved. I’ve done things with her that would never have crossed my wildest imagination, and I can’t ever seem to get enough.

But now I want more from her. I want to figure out her dark secret, expose it and then help her to heal from it. I know, without a doubt, that Macy is capable of love, and I will grind her down until I make her accept the truth of it.

Grind (verb): to wear down, polish, or sharpen by friction

Cal Carson is not the man I once thought him to be.

Strong, determined, sexy as hell and a beast in the bedroom. He is every woman’s fantasy.

He is my fantasy.

But no matter how hard Cal tries to grind me down, my heart and secrets are mine and mine alone.

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25184940-grind

Purchase Grind: A Legal Affairs Story:
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We pick up where Clash left off, Macy need Cal’s legal expertise to fight off a frivolous lawsuit. At first Cal did not want to represent Macy, but after further review and he’s such a sucker for her, he acquiesces. Before he does, he makes sure to let Macy know that he will not jeopardize his legal career and therefore, they will be no hanky panky and as much as it kills them, they both agree, until after the case resolves. Well it does resolve, and when these two hit the sheets, go grab your favorite battery operated toy because it is scorching hot.

The alternative POVs are really good, although Macy’s POV is a little different. You sense she is so broken, her parents are aholes for sure. Macy, who doesn’t do repeats, cannot seem to stay away from Cal and vice versa. Macy does not do intimacy, yet Cal in some way gets her to do things, like cuddle. “There’s nothing remotely lovable about me, so I’m not worried.” That right there, pulled at my heart. Yet, we still do not find out what is the real issue as to why Macy is so broken. We sought of get a peek when she’s with her parents, but not the full story. So you already know there is another cliffhanger and it’s a big one involving said ahole parents.

Let me say this, I really liked Clash, but Grind, is by far my favorite. Their sexy times by far way hotter than the first book. Let’s just say when you get to the sex club scene and back door action, you will know what I’m talking about. Sawyer really stepped it up this book big time. I cannot wait for Yield and hopefully get my answers regarding Macy and her passed and why she doesn’t do the relationship thing. I am rooting for Saint Cal (although not so saintly with the sexy times). I will also say that this book is also a quick read and will keep you turning the pages and wanting more.

– Michelle

*An ARC was provided for an honest review.

Clash (verb): to conflict, disagree.

It might be fair to say that I despise Macy Carrington. She slings insults with precision, not caring about the destruction she leaves in her wake. We clash in a battle of wills every time we’re around each other, and yet… I still fantasize about being lodged deep within her body.

Clash (verb): to come together or collide.

I have never encountered someone that grates me the way Cal Carson does. His pompous, arrogant demeanor. A holier-than-thou attitude. Any interaction with “Saint Cal” ends in a verbal clash of epic proportions, and yet… there’s no one I’d rather have in my bed than him.

Clash (noun): a battle, fight or skirmish.

Her breathy moans mingle with the sound of our flesh coming together, clashing with the silence that surrounds us, dispelling any notions I once had about Macy Carrington.

Maybe I can break down her walls if we can call a truce to this battle.

He whispers filthy words in my ear, provoking feelings I never knew were possible. The burning desire in his touch clashes with everything I once believed about Cal Carson.

Maybe he can be the balm I need to soothe my broken soul, if only temporarily.

Purchase Clash: A Legal Affairs Story:
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1Fw1Rll
iBooks: http://goo.gl/wuQXtq
Google Play: http://goo.gl/18buhS

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25095182-clash

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author, Sawyer Bennett is a snarky southern woman and reformed trial lawyer who decided to finally start putting on paper all of the stories that were floating in her head. Her husband works for a Fortune 100 company which lets him fly all over the world while she stays at home with their daughter and three big, furry dogs who hog the bed. Sawyer would like to report she doesn’t have many weaknesses but can be bribed with a nominal amount of milk chocolate.

Sawyer is the author of several contemporary romances including the popular Off Series, the Legal Affairs Series and the Last Call Series.

Connect with Sawyer:
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Book Review: Do Not Disturb by A.R. Torre

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Title: Do Not Disturb (Deanna Madden, #2)

Author: A. R. Torre (Alessandra Torre)

Genre: Erotic Suspense

Releasing: April 21st

Rating: 3.5-4 stars

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Equal parts Dexter and 50 Shades, this is the eagerly awaited follow-up to the daring erotic thriller, The Girl in 6E, by A.R. Torre.

My rules:

1. Don’t leave the apartment.

2. Never let anyone in.

3. Don’t kill anyone.

The rules were simple and I broke them.

Now I must face the consequences.

Everyone else must face me.

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The need. It’s is stronger than my blood lust; it is overriding any thought in my head.

Let me start off by saying I flove Deanna since The Girl in 6E. The #1 reason why I wanted to read this sequel. I was immediately drawn to how the author created a female character with so many dark thoughts and intentions yet she found herself at peace with an average man, Jeremy. The delivery boy. The one who had the balls to turn the knob and enter her domain. Now he is entering her heart but she worries her darkness will overrule and she will be the cause of his death.

I want this man so bad. I want him alive, and I want him to fill me with that life, that sweetness.

I was worried for a moment there. The story didn’t grasp me right away. I felt like I was being told everything I already knew about Deanna and Jeremy. Her struggles. Her live chat rooms. Not much changed. So I thought. Alessandra brings back Mike. You know, hacker friend who keeps tab on her money, clients. Her second set of eyes. This time Deanna needs him to get info on a client who rubs her off the wrong way. A new client who can’t take no for an answer, Marcus. This is why I love this chick. She knows too much. She feels it. Why wouldn’t she? This new client was recently let out of prison and it seems he’s not keen on being told no. So he sets himself out to find her. What a big surprise awaits you Marcus. This is when shit gets real. Deanna is about to come out and play.

She is damaged. Damaged in a strange way that has strength- a silent, don’t-open-that-door, watch-your-back-in-the-dark strength.

So yes the story picked up for me and I started to feel what AT gave me in book 1. The suspense, the thrill, the biting your nails because it’s just too much. Then you get around 92% of the book and you start yelling No, No, Nooooo and praying that’s not what’s happening. I was slowly dying. But that’s what I like. The feels you get. I love being inside Deanna’s mind and frankly I want more. There’s so much more to see out of her. Her love for Jeremy. She’s still young and trying new small changes in her life. Baby steps. I have faith Jeremy can help her with some of these new life changes but let’s be honest, her Killer Instincts is what makes this story so much better.

Star light. Star bright. First star I see tonight. I wish I may, I wish I might. Not kill those whom my heart holds tight.

– YaYa

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A New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author, Alessandra Torre has written nine novels, four of which became #1 Erotic Bestsellers.

Her first book, Blindfolded Innocence, became a breakout hit, rising to the top of the charts on Kindle and Amazon where it attracted the interest of major publishing houses and garnered Torre her first print deal with Harlequin HQN. Less than twelve months later, Torre signed a second print deal, this time with Redhook (Hachette) for her erotic thriller The Girl in 6E.

From her home near the warm waters of the Emerald Coast in Florida, she devotes several hours each day to various writing projects and interacting with her fans on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Happily married and with one son, she loves watching SEC football games, horseback riding, reading and watching movies.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Pinterest | Amazon Page

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Blog Tour (Book Review): Sunshine & Whiskey by RL Griffin

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Title: Sunshine & Whiskey

Author: R.L. Griffin

Genre: Romantic Comedy

Cover Designer: Silver Plum Creations

Release Date: April 21st, 2015

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Sometimes the best things in life come from the unexpected. So if you lower your expectations, then you’ll never be disappointed. Sound cheesy? It is, but it’s also true. Clichés come from a grain of truth…like a man with a Porsche is compensating for something, or once a cheater always a cheater—you get the idea. Sorry, I digress. I’m supposed to be telling you what this book is about.

I’m Megan Walker, a lawyer at one of the hottest boutique law firms in Atlanta. I’m on the fast track to making partner and have my entire life planned out…or I did.

We all know how that goes, right? Best laid plans and all that.

Life just threw me a couple curveballs, so I’ve set out to take things into my own hands. By throwing caution to the wind and getting out of my A-type personality bubble, I’m learning more about myself than I have in my twenty-seven years.

Sound like a chick flick, doesn’t it?

It’s not.

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What happens if your carefully planned out life takes a turn for the worse one day . . .
. . . and a huge turn for the better the next?

If you had a chance for a life do-over, with no care for the costs, what would you do?

In the case of this story, and Megan, the main character, an EPIC road-trip is only the beginning. Call it perfect timing, with her BFF, Laura having her own troubles and joining her for the ride, Time to let their hair down, enjoy lots and lots of alcohol, the occasional one-night stand, and laughs galore. They are the modern day Thelma and Louise, minus the whole tragic death scene.

This book is a big departure for the author, who I became a fan of with her romantic suspense series, By a Thread. While this book has its angst, it is minimal and most of the time, we get to go along for the ride with these fun loving women.

“Bitches, man.”

While the road trip serves as the back-story, both women struggle to determine the direction of their lives. Their break from the “real world” gives them the chance to carve their own path and find happiness for the long haul.

If you’ve read the author’s previous books, it won’t be a surprise that she doesn’t make the love story a simple one. There are multiple potential love interests for Megan, several of which make you think, is he the one (Peter, Ellis aka Meat, Walker aka Magic)? As well as some very unfortunate ones (Chad and Ben).

I personally wavered back and forth with which man (from the good pool), I wanted Megan to have her HEA. My heart was with Peter most of the book, but that would be too easy. Laura also had her share of men along the way as well. From the guy that caused her to need ice for her nether regions, to the man who was so perfect, it scared the hell out of her.

I thought it was great how both called each other out as they struggled to decide what to do with their lives and their men.

What I loved about this story was it felt like I was along for the ride. Megan and Laura are total goofballs, and their banter is exactly how I would picture two BFFs talking.

I also loved that the author poked at some reoccurring themes in romance novels. Can you truly forgive someone who has broken your heart?

He ripped my heart out and changed me.  I’ll never be the person he fell in love with.  I’m harder, meaner, more cynical, but it’s who I am and I own it.

And on the lighter side, is it always sexy to be spanked and told “come for me.” Ehhhh, not in Megan’s case, lol.

This book takes you on a journey about self-discovery. Enjoying the embarrassing moments, such as a funeral procession during a walk of shame, as well as all the good times in between. In the end, Megan’s sister points her in the right direction to make her life meaningful and filled with happiness for the future.

Sometimes you need family to remind you who you were before life got in the way, before logistics of paying bills and boys breaking your heart changed your direction.

If you are looking for a fun and fairly light read filled with good times and great music, look no further.

– Grace

*An ARC was received for an honest review.

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R.L. Griffin published her first book in 2004. After that she focused on practicing law. A few years ago she began writing the By A Thread series, which is out now. Her goal is to keep readers on their toes, whether it’s the plot twist or the book itself, her books are outside any box. There is a little bit of grit in most of her books and a ton of cussing. Most books are enjoyed better with a glass of wine, or whiskey, whatever your poison may be.

She lives in Atlanta with her husband, kid and dogs. She loves to travel and meet readers.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Amazon link | TSU

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Come visit R. L. Griffin’s FACEBOOK PARTY on Tuesday April 28th from 8:00-9:00 PM EST

The party will be on her Facebook LIKE page

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Come Party with R. L. Griffin on TWITTER Thursday April 30th from 8:00-9:00 PM EST

Remember to use the #SaddleUp

(You type the Hashtag into the Discover of the Twitter & to keep up, hit refresh. All questions and communications have to use the #Saddleup.)

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New Release (Book Review & Giveaway): Aflame by Penelope Douglas

Title: Aflame (Falling Away #4)
Author: Penelope Douglas
Genre: NA | Contemporary Romance
Release Date: April 21, 2015
Organized by: As the Pages Turn
Rating: 5 stars

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23437291-aflame

From the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of Bully, Until You, Rival, and Falling Away comes the sizzling

conclusion to the Fall Away series.

The tables have turned. Now I have the power—and it’s his turn to beg…

Everyone wants to be me.

Maybe it’s the sway of my skirt or the way I flip my hair, but I don’t care. Even though their attention is the last thing I crave, I just can’t stop. I dominate the track, the speed rattles my bones, and the wind and the crowd screams my name.

I’m her. The girl driver. The queen of the race. And I’m surviving—something he thought I’d never do.

They all talk about him. Did you see Jared Trent on T.V? What did you think of his last race, Tate? When is he coming back to town, Tate?

But I refuse to care too much.

Because when Jared does come home, I won’t be here.

Tatum Brandt is gone. I’m someone new.

“Again.”

It’s a simple word, but it means so much in the context of this story and sums up the relationship between Tate and Jared. It also comes at a very memorable time in the book.

I know there were a range of responses when fans of this series read the preview of this book at the end of Falling Away. Heartbreak, fear, anger. I personally only skimmed the preview, already knowing the gist of what happened and knowing my heart wasn’t ready for it. And I’ll be honest, I was VERY nervous to start reading these, while overeager at the same time.

Let me tell you, this book is all that and a bag of chips. While reading, I held my kindle in a death grip, fanned myself, laughed, and even cried. This hit all of my emotions and left me feeling completely satisfied. All of the anguish was worth it.

Although it pained me to hear of this couple’s breakup for _____ period of time (yeah, I’m not giving that spoiler away), I wasn’t completely floored. If you think about it, these two got together as teenagers and you’d have to expect some growing pains along the way.

With alternate POVs, we get both sides of the pre- and post-breakup. Knowing the reasons and reactions of both characters cleared up a lot of concerns, and created some new ones. One thing is clear, the lack of communication on both of their parts only made things worse.

I hated her.  I wanted to hate her.  Why did I still want her?
Fuck!

What was strange was based on the preview, and Jared’s past history, I would expected my anger to center with him. But I actually wavered back and forth as to who I directed my anger towards and who got my sympathy. Oddly enough, it was their friends and family who seemed to work harder to resolve the issues between the two. I loved Madoc in this book! He verbally gives Jared a much needed kick in the ass.

Madoc let out a bitter laugh.  “Take off your pants.”
I popped my head up.  “Why?”
“Because I want to see what a man with a pussy looks like.”

Then Jared’s Mom gives the follow thru kick. Seems she had the ability to be a good mom after all, when not drowning herself in booze.

“A man who stand in front of a woman does nothing more than block her view.  She needs a man standing next to her, so grow up.”

Can I get an “amen”?!

It is worth mentioning that a lot of people were angered by this mere idea of his book. Why did the author ruin a good thing?! How dare she! But here’s something to consider. Why not take something good, and make it better? Did Jared and Tate handle things perfectly? Hell no! But they were young and selfish. The Jared you know from the previous books is so different than the Jared you come to know in this story. He has found his purpose and come to some painful realizations of what is still missing in his life. The quest to make things right show how far along he has come, and with the previously mentioned advice of others, he takes the proper steps to make things last, forever.

Tate and Jared have always had a fiery, passionate relationship. The sex was always perfect, but what else was there? With Jared’s careful steps forward, they add depth to their relationship, revisiting the friendship that was born before the passion.

This story ties up all of the three couples story lines. I pretty much had a permanent smile for the last 20% of the book. The author promised a HEA, and she delivered, so calm your beating heart and prepare to dig in. If you are a fan of this series, this book is absolutely a MUST READ!

Last reviewer note: This author has the best playlists for her books.  I suggest you make an Aflame playlist on Spotify or whatever music site you use, and enjoy!  Can never go wrong adding the Beastie Boys into a book, imo.

– Grace

*An ARC was received for an honest review.

PURCHASE LINKS – AFLAME:
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OZ0TO0S
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00SHL3U4C
B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/aflame-penelope-douglas/1121080523
Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/aflame-2
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/aflame/id934616199
BAM: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Aflame/Penelope-Douglas/Q571971777

Purchase Links → Amazon | Amazon UK | B&N | Kobo | iTunes

The giveaway is international and ends at 11:59 PM CST 04/25/2015.

(2) Signed set of Bully, Until You, Rival & Falling Away
(2) $20 gift card (Amazon or B&N)

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Penelope Douglas is a writer in Las Vegas. Born in Dubuque, Iowa, she is the oldest of five children. Penelope attended the University of Northern Iowa, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, because her father told her to “just get the degree!” She then earned a Masters of Science in Education at Loyola University in New Orleans, because she hated Public Administration. One night, she got tipsy and told the bouncer at the bar where she worked that his son was hot, and three years later they were married. To the son, not the bouncer. They have spawn, but just one. A daughter named Aydan. Penelope loves sweets, The Originals, and she shops at Target almost daily.

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