Release Blitz + Review: Touching Down by Nicole Williams

Posted on 10/10/2016 by shellbellereads

Touching Down

By Nicole Williams

Release Date: October 9, 2016

Buy: Amazon / Amazon UK /Amazon CA / Amazon AU

Synopsis

The whole world might be in love with him. But all he’s ever loved is her.

Grant Turner’s name is synonymous with football. The fans and media can’t get enough of the player known as The Invincible Man, a nickname he earned while growing up in one of the toughest neighborhoods in the country and the nickname he’s kept by being one of the best players in professional football today. No one can take him down. He’s unstoppable.

But even a suit of armor has its weak point, and Grant’s has always been Ryan Hale.
They were a couple of kids when they fell in love, and just when it looked like the happy ending neither expected was within reach, Ryan disappeared. No explanations. No good-byes.

Grant coped by throwing himself into the game for seven years, and he’s finally moved on. Or so he thinks.

When she walks back into his life, all of those feelings come crashing back, despite the warnings in his head that tell him she’ll leave him again. Grant can withstand the league’s toughest defensive line, but he’s always been weak where she’s concerned.

No man can take Grant Turner down.

But one woman certainly can.

One woman will.

_____________________________________

Excerpt

How had I gotten here?
That was the question still cycling through my head when I heard the shower turn off. In the minute that followed, I did everything I could not to think about what was behind that closed bathroom door. What being a wet and naked Grant Turner.
What being the only man I’d ever loved and the only man I ever would. My life felt like it was ending, but his was only really getting started. There’d be more for him, despite whatever he said or thought. There’d be love, heartache, and more love. For Grant, I would be one of the many. For me, he was the one of them all.
When the bathroom door opened, a fog of steam burst into the bedroom. It wasn’t a plume; it was a thick fog.
“Do you have any skin left after that scalding shower?” I asked, turning toward the dresser so my back was to the bathroom. Grant fresh from a shower had always been a weakness for me, and I guessed nothing about that had changed.
“I don’t know. What do you think?”
I saw him from the corner of my eyes, standing beside me. When my gaze shifted to confirm whether he had or had not scalded off his skin, my breath caught.
“Why are you naked?” I blinked a few times to keep my eyes facing north. It was a chore though. I felt as though two metal weights dangled from my eyeballs and were trying to draw them downward.
Grant chuckled, pulling open the bottom drawer. “I’m not naked.”
“Why are you mostly naked?” When the fight against gravity became too much and my eyes dropped below his navel, I literally felt flames licking up my throat. Fuck me. That man had always had an amazing body, but now . . . I knew women who’d auction off their souls for a chance to be entertained by a body like that for a night.
“Because I figured you wouldn’t prefer the alternative of me being fully naked.” Grant pinched at the white towel tied around his waist as he pulled a pair of light grey sweats from the drawer. “But since I can tell from your shock I was wrong, what the hell.” In one flick of a finger, the towel fell to the floor.
“Grant!” It came out as more of a shriek than I’d intended, but he was standing two feet in front of me, fully naked.
“What?” His voice was innocent, but his smirk was the opposite. “Nothing you haven’t seen before.” His muscles rippled when he shrugged, tugging on his sweats. “Just seven years older is all.”
When he turned to pick up his abandoned towel, I got the full view of his back which, like this, looked as wide as the span of my arms.
“And seven years bigger,” I muttered, still unable to believe he’d just bared it all like that. Actually, the more I thought about it, I shouldn’t have been so shocked. Grant wasn’t exactly modest.
Glancing back at me, he winked. “Why thank you. Glad you noticed.”
When I caught what he was getting at, heat settled beneath my cheeks. “That’s not what I was talking about.”
“Maybe. But that doesn’t mean it wasn’t what you were thinking about.” He slid the waistband of his sweats around until he found a comfortable spot. Which happened to be a good half foot below his navel.
“In your hurry to make me uncomfortable, you forgot to put on underwear.” I flattened my expression to give the impression that I was not half as shook up as he thought I was.
The truth was, I was probably twice as shook up as he thought.
“I don’t believe in them,” he said simply.
“You don’t believe in what? Underwear?” I felt my forehead crease.
“I’m anti-underwear.”
“Anti-underwear?”
“You know how some people are anti-gun or anti-abortion? Well, I’m anti-underwear,” he explained with a shrug. “But are you?”
My arms folded and I looked across the room. “Am I what?”
“Uncomfortable?” He moved a step closer, when he’d already been five steps too close.
Now, it wasn’t just the image of him clouding my mind. It was the way he smelled. The sound of his breath. The feel of the warmth cascading off of his body.
Sealing my eyes closed, I focused. I imagined the most Zen, peaceful place on the planet. “No,” I said as firmly as I was capable.
“Liar.” I heard the twisted smile in his voice. After a moment, I felt him move closer. “Why do I make you uncomfortable? I never used to.”
My eyes opened right into his. As dark as Grant’s eyes were, a person would never notice the flecks of light in them if they didn’t get close enough to see them. Up close, his eyes were more light than dark.
“You don’t make me uncomfortable.” I could hear the lie in my voice like it was a shout.
One by one, Grant’s hands formed around the outsides of my elbows, his fingers circling around my arms. His body pressed closer until his chest touched mine each time he inhaled. “Then why are you trembling?” His head dropped, his mouth moving just outside of my ear. “Why do I make you uncomfortable, Ryan?”
His voice, his body. His words, his touch. He was wrecking my resolve, one moment at a time, until I could feel the last of it about to crumble.
“It’s been a long day, Grant.”
“It has.” His head nodded beside mine. “Let’s keep up this trend and make it a long night too.”
My heart started to echo in my eardrums as a growing ache pulsed inside me.
“We should get to bed.” My voice was trembling now too.
“We should.” His head dropped lower to my neck. He took in a long breath, like he was trying to take me inside him. “Yours or mine?”
Despite my resolve, I smiled. “They’re all yours technically.”
“They’re whatever you want them to be just as long a you say which one you want me to carry you into. Or feel free to point in the general area too. I can figure it out.”

________________________________

Michel’s Review

Nicole Williams is one of those authors that has a gift of delivering an emotional story with complete compassion. She gives the readers the right kinds of information that validates the characters emotional journey. Once again she has written a story that touches the heart.

Without giving too many spoilers I will give a brief review. Grant and Ryan came from a horrendous background. They grew up in a violent and dangerous world. Their only reprieve was each other. Just as they are on the brink of their adult future Ryan disappears without a trace. Seven years later she is back but it may be too late.

From the bitterness to the passion, Grant and Ryan will fight for their love. Their lives are on the line this time and there is someone else depending on them.

I highly recommend reading Touching Down by Nicole Williams.

Nicole Williams is the New York Times and USATODAY bestselling author of contemporary and young adult romance, including the Crash and Lost & Found series. Her books have been published by HarperTeen and Simon & Schuster in both domestic and foreign markets, while she continues to self-publish additional titles. She is working on a new YA series with Crown Books (a division of Random House) as well. She loves romance, from the sweet to the steamy, and writes stories about characters in search of their happily even after. She grew up surrounded by books and plans on writing until the day she dies, even if it’s just for her own personal enjoyment. She still buys paperbacks because she’s all nostalgic like that, but her kindle never goes neglected for too long. When not writing, she spends her time with her husband and daughter, and whatever time’s left over she’s forced to fit too many hobbies into too little time.

Nicole is represented by Jane Dystel, of Dystel and Goderich Literary Agency.

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Review: Mine For Now by Erika Kelly

Posted on 10/07/2016 by shellbellereads

From the award-winning author of the Rock Star Romance books comes a sizzling new series about the O’Donnell siblings. The pull of wild love is irresistible.

She’s had enough drama in her life.

Nicole O’Donnell is more than ready for the fresh start college offers. After a lifetime of trying to help her alcoholic mom and ex-boyfriend get sober, she’s finally learned her lesson: people don’t change. They certainly don’t change for her.

He can never leave his drama behind.

Thanks to his mom’s substance abuse issues, Dylan McCaffrey’s persona non grata in his hometown of Gun Powder, Colorado. So when he scores a free ride to the top university in the country, he’s determined to make something of this fresh start. But his mom has always relied on him, and she’s not handling his absence well at all. If he can just keep up his grades, pay her bills, and come home every break, he might be able to pull off this opportunity.

True love won’t be denied.

No matter how determined they are to steer clear of each other, their combustible connection explodes, especially when Nicole offers Dylan the one thing he can’t bear—hope. Once he has a taste of it—and the irresistible force of her—there’s no going back.

But when he falls too deeply, when he loses sight of his priorities, he might just lose it all.

Order MINE FOR NOW in ebook or paperback, releasing 10/4/16

Amazon | iBooks | Barnes & Noble

Add to your Goodreads

Tracey’s Review

Getting away from Gun Powder, CO, and all the drama there is the best thing that Dylan McCaffrey could have done. It’s his chance to do things differently, to make something of himself. Meeting Nicole O’Donnell is an unexpected bonus, and the breath of fresh air that Dylan so desperately needs. But there are those back home that aren’t as happy for Dylan’s success, and that will do anything and everything to draw him back in.

I was excited to read MINE FOR NOW by author Erika Kelly since I’d liked her Rock Star Romance series so much. And, I did like this book, although it was very different from her other books.

While I understood Dylan’s dilemma regarding his relationship with his mother, with Kelsi, and with all that his home of Gunpowder, CO, represented, I got impatient with his constant decision to go back, rather than moving forward. But that’s the role of the co-dependent, and maybe I’m only now realizing that Erika has done a good job of writing a flawed character that wants to change, that wants a different outcome for his life more than he can say, but just doesn’t know how to get it. He doesn’t think that he deserves his life in New York, his relationship with Nicole, to make something more of himself than staying in Colorado and caring for his mother will allow. And, until he does, until he admits that he can’t control his mother and his decisions, he’s not going to change, either. Like many co-dependent people, Dylan is really the one standing in his own way, unable to see that his worth has nothing to do with the choices that his mother makes, that his past does not define him.

“But you’re not…You’re not poor, you’re not working class, you’re not middle class, you’re not anything. Your parents might be, but you’re just a college kid. Just like the rest of us…And you get to build from here. You get to decide what and who you become. This is the one time in your life when you can finally break free of all the labels. Dylan, you can be whatever you want. Starting now.”

I sometimes have a hard time connecting to the characters in a New Adult read, but I really do enjoy Erika’s writing. In MINE FOR NOW, she’s created characters that, though young, and so dealing with all of the angst of those years, are still interesting in that they have been formed by pasts that will either leave them stronger or continue to create a vacuum where they cannot move on. Ultimately, this is a story of strength, of pushing past obstacles that appeared to be immoveable, and coming through, whole and healthy, on the other side. This is a solid 4-star read for me, and I’m looking forward to reading MINE FOR A WEEK, the next book in Erika’s new series.

***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***

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About Erika Kelly:

Award-winning author Erika Kelly has been spinning romantic tales all her life–she just didn’t know it. Raised on the classics, she didn’t discover romantic fiction until later in life. From that moment on, she’s been devouring the genre and has found her true voice as an author. Over three decades she’s written poems, screenplays, plays, short stories, and all kinds of women’s fiction novels. Married to the love of her life and raising four children, she’s lived in two countries and seven states, but give her pen and paper, a stack of good books, and a steaming mug of vanilla chai latte and she can make her home anywhere.

Website ** Facebook ** Twitter ** Newsletter Signup ** Erika Kelly Goodreads

New Release + Review + Giveaway: Bedmates by Nichole Chase – American Royalty Series – Book 1

Posted on 10/06/2016 by shellbellereads

We are thrilled to get to bring to you the Review & Excerpt Tour for New York Times Bestselling Author Nichole Chase’s BEDMATES, the first standalone novel in her new American Royalty Series! Be sure to check out all of the stops in this amazing tour and grab your copy of BEDMATES today!

From the New York Times bestselling author of Suddenly Royal comes the first in a sparkling new series about America’s favorite royal—the First Daughter.

Everyone makes mistakes, especially in college. But when you’re the daughter of the President of the United States, any little slip up is a huge embarrassment. Maddie McGuire’s latest error in judgment lands her in police custody, giving the press a field day. Agreeing to do community service as penance and to restore her tattered reputation, Maddie never dreams incredibly good looking but extremely annoying vice president’s son, Jake Simmon, will be along for the ride.

Recently returning from Afghanistan with a life-altering injury, Jake is wrestling with his own demons. He doesn’t have the time or patience to deal with the likes of Maddie. They’re like oil and water and every time they’re together, it’s combustible. But there’s a thin line between love and hate, and it’s not long before their fiery arguments give way to infinitely sexier encounters.

When Jake receives devastating news about the last remaining member of his unit, the darkness he’s resisted for so long begins to overwhelm him. Scared to let anyone close, he pushes Maddie away. But she isn’t about to give up on Jake that easily. Maddie’s fallen for him, and she’ll do anything to keep him from the edge as they both discover that love is a battlefield and there are some fights you just can’t lose.

Order BEDMATES in ebook or paperback, releasing 10/4/16

Amazon | iBooks | BAM| Barnes & Noble

Add to your Goodreads

Tracey’s Review

When you’re father is the president of the United States, people expect you to behave a certain way. Like, maybe not breaking into a lab to free test animals. Or spending all your free time helping at an animal shelter. Or walking around building sites in jeans, sassy tee-shirts, and mud. But Madeleine McGuire isn’t the typical First Daughter. She knows how to play the political game, and does it grudgingly, all while being her off-beat, big-hearted self.

Jake Simmon knows how to play the game, too. When your mother is the current VP, with sights set on becoming the next president, you have to walk the walk. As a wounded warrior, Jake is happy to give back to other veterans, but what he wasn’t counting on was Maddie. Frenemies for as long as they can remember, Jake and Maddie have an edgy sort of relationship. Except, suddenly Jake is looking at Maddie with new eyes, and Maddie is seeing him in a different way, too, and, well, chemistry.

BEDMATES by author Nichole Chase is a sweet, heartwarming, and, yes, sexy read. Although I tend to steer clear of the NA trope these days, there is something refreshing about this one. Maddie is a bit of a wild child, having inherited her free spirit from her mom. Although she tries to toe the line, well, life happens. When Maddie and Jake are forced to work together to promote a housing program for veterans, they have to make nice for the cameras, and, soon enough, find that they’re interested in spending more than just air time together.

Nichole has managed to capture the tenor of a life lived in the public eye, and what it must be like to always have to be ‘on.’ At the same time, she’s written Jake, Maddie, their famous families, and the people that make Washington, D.C., what it is, in a way that makes them more likable and approachable.

I really enjoyed that the storyline involves current events, things that will resonate with many different types of people. The animal rights issues, the wounded warrior issues, the political games, all add up to make a book that I liked very much. I would happily recommend BEDMATES, and rate it 4 stars’ worth of love, laughter, and steaminess, with the added bonus of political celebrity thrown into the mix. Definitely a nice addition to your TBR.

***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***

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About Nichole Chase:

Nichole Chase is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of Suddenly Royal, The Accidental Assassin, Flukes, The Dark Betrayal Trilogy, The American Royalty Series and several short stories.

Nichole lives in Georgia with her husband, energetic daughter, two rescue dogs, Sulcata tortoise, and two cats. When not writing, you may find her reading, painting, crafting, or chasing her daughter around the house while making monster noises.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

New Release + Review + Giveaway: Thief Of Hearts by L.H. Conway

Posted on 10/06/2016 by shellbellereads

We’re celebrating the release of THIEF OF HEARTS by L.H. Cosway! Check out the excerpt and giveaway below!

Thief of Hearts

By L.H. Cosway

Genre: Contemporary Romance/Romantic Suspense

Release Date: October 4, 2016

Goodreads

Buy:

Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo / Smashwords

Synopsis

Seduce the teacher.

Meet the cousin.

Make a deal.

Steal the painting.

Andrea Anderson has no clue of the thoughts churning around in the dark and dangerous ex-con’s head as he enters her classroom. In fact, she’s momentarily lost for words. Not in her entire teaching career has she had a student who looked quite like Stu Cross.

A widow at just twenty-eight, love is something Andie hasn’t considered a part of her life for a very long time. However, when lingering touches turn to whispered words and hot, searching stares, she begins to wonder if maybe she should take a leap of faith.

But Stu is in her class for a reason, and it has nothing to do with love. He’s there to burrow his way into her life and repay a debt, otherwise his family will suffer. Andie is the first person to show him true kindness since he left prison, and though he doesn’t want to mislead her, he doesn’t have another choice.

Before long, Stu can’t tell whether or not he’s acting anymore, and his feelings for Andie could throw all of his carefully crafted plans into complete and utter disarray.

**Can be read as a stand alone.

EXCERPT:

I organised my things and opened my laptop, pulling up the morning’s lesson plan when I heard the friendly chatter quieten down. Glancing up, I saw our new student had arrived, and I had to take a second to catch my breath.

Stuart Cross looked dangerous, in a James Dean, careless male beauty, leather jacket-wearing sort of way. He was tall, with chestnut-brown hair, hazel eyes and dark, expressive brows. He looked like he drank beer straight out of the bottle and drove a motorbike.

Mary placed a hand on her hip and smirked as she looked him up and down in a very ‘I’ve got your number, sonny Jim’ sort of fashion. I imagined she’d eat him for breakfast if he even gave her so much as a hint he was interested in becoming her boy toy.

And I, well, I couldn’t seem to take my eyes off him either. He was just so unexpected. It was like entering Alfie’s bedroom and discovering a newly finished painting. He seemed too much for our ordinary, comfortable little classroom.

He made eye contact with me just as he pulled out a chair in the third row and sat, a whoosh of air capturing my lungs. I rubbed my palms on my skirt and leaned forward, about to introduce myself when a student approached him. It was Harold, a small, bespectacled man in his early fifties, who liked everything to be done just so. In other words, he was set in his ways, and Stuart was currently occupying his usual seat.

“Pardon me, but I sit there,” he said, tapping Stuart on the shoulder.

Stuart rested an elbow on the desk, and slowly turned to look at him. “You what?”

Harold cleared his throat. “This is where I sit. I’m sorry, but you’re going to have to move.”

Stuart let out a quiet chuckle, shook his head and leaned back to spread his legs. “I don’t think so. I’ve just gotten comfortable, mate.”

I frowned and rose from my seat. Making my way past the desks, I felt the others watching as I approached our new student. I stopped just in front of him, briefly placed a reassuring hand on Harold’s shoulder and leveled Stuart with a strict look.

“We actually have a set seating plan. Come with me and I’ll show you where you can sit.

I’m Miss Anderson, by the way. Your teacher.”

Stuart took his time raising his eyes to mine, slicing his teeth across his full bottom lip for a second as he contemplated me. I rested my hands on my hips, trying not to fixate on his mouth as I felt a tiny flicker in some long-neglected part of my body.

“All right then, Miss Anderson. I wouldn’t want to cause a fuss,” said Stuart, standing to his full height and allowing Harold to take his seat. His attitude rubbed me the wrong way, but nevertheless, I led him to the only free seat in the front row. He stepped forward, his chest brushing mine before he sat. I caught my breath for a second; the contact took me by surprise.

In fact, it almost felt like he’d done it on purpose.

Yep, I was definitely going to have to keep an eye on this one.

________________________________

Robin’s Review

Author L. H. Cosway is now releasing the fifth book of the Hearts series. I’ve read and reviewed each book to date – Six of Hearts, Hearts of Fire, King of Hearts, and Hearts of Blue – all have Cosway’s unique, artistic flare that stands out in a sea of contemporary romance. Each novel of the Hearts series is loosely related to a previous novel in the series, but all can be read as standalones. This time, Cosway focuses on Stuart Cross, brother to Hearts of Blue male lead Lee Cross and the oldest of the Cross brothers.

“Seduce the teacher. Meet the cousin. Make a deal. Steal the painting.”

Andrea Anderson teaches adults who are seeking to return to college, helping them brush up on reading, writing, and other necessary skills prior to applying to a university. A widow at the age of 28, Andrea has had little interest in men since her husband passed away, but when Stuart Cross enters her classroom, she’s momentarily stunned. He’s tall and handsome with a dangerous edge. Stu appears to be exactly what he is – a criminal, just released from prison, who’s attending her class as a requirement of his parole. So when Stu begins flirting with Andrea, she’s flustered. And when he’s coming on to her hard, she rightfully feels skeptical.

Early in this novel, I struggled with the developing relationship between Stu and Andrea. Thief of Hearts is written from Andrea’s point of view, and for me, the attraction she felt for Stu wasn’t exactly jumping off of the pages. Having read Hearts of Blue, I was familiar with Stu’s background before I began reading. His gestures towards Andrea didn’t feel organic, and even when she began warming up to Stu, Andrea was still hesitant to give him her full heart.

But then we have the second half of this story; in my opinion, this is where the strength of this story lies. Cosway throws in a couple of interesting plot twists – the kind that had me sitting up at attention! Suddenly, Thief of Hearts became MUCH more interesting to me. The story became gritty, emotional, and this is where Andrea and Stu began experiencing all kinds of character growth. Growing closer under circumstances that weren’t ideal, Stu and Andrea developed real, deep feelings for each other. Now here is the magic I was expecting! The second half of Thief of Hearts REALLY packs a punch!

Thief of Hearts is a strong novel. It’s well-written, and as usual, Cosway’s writing flows nicely. I enjoyed the primary and secondary characters in this story. The Cross brothers were already on my radar from when I read Hearts of Blue, so I was pleased to read more about Lee and Karla, their family unit and to finally learn more about Stuart Cross. The plot of Thief of Hearts is unique, and it obviously required some thought and creativity to develop. Reading about the heist was very entertaining.

As I neared the climax of the novel, the author really pulled on my emotional strings. I felt empathy for Stu and Andrea as they struggled to cope with their mixed-up feelings. I just LOVE the way L. H. Cosway chose to resolve the story for these characters. I feel like I read two novels instead of one, which was a pleasant surprise! The strong second half of Stu and Andrea’s story increased my overall rating of Thief of Hearts to 4.5 stars!

_________________________________

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About the author:

L.H. Cosway lives in Dublin, Ireland. Her inspiration to write comes from music. Her favourite things in life include writing stories, vintage clothing, dark cabaret music, food, musical comedy, and of course, books. She thinks that imperfect people are the most interesting kind. They tell the best stories. L.H. is represented by Louise Fury at The Bent Agency.

Social Media Links:FB: www.facebook.com/LHCosway
Twitter: www.twitter.com/LHCosway
Instagram: www.instagram.com/l.h.cosway
Website: www.lhcoswayauthor.com
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/lhcosway13/

Release Blitz + Excerpt + Review + Giveaway: A Fool For You by Katee Robert – Foolproof Love Series – Book 3

Posted on 10/04/2016 by shellbellereads

It’s just a belated goodbye, right? No harm, no foul.

A FOOL FOR YOU

Foolproof Love #3

Katee Robert

Releasing Oct 3rd, 2016

Entangled: Brazen

It’s been
thirteen years since Hope Moore left Devil’s Falls, land of sexy cowboys and
bad memories. Back for the weekend, she has no intention of seeing the man she
never got over…or the two of them getting down and dirty. It’s just a belated
goodbye, right? No harm, no foul.Until six weeks later, when her pregnancy test comes back positive…Daniel Rodriguez hasn’t forgiven himself for how things went down with Hope all
those years ago. He knows she’s better off without him, but when she shows up
on his doorstep, panicking because she’s pregnant with his baby, he can’t help
seeing it as a chance to make up for the past.

Too bad Hope has no intention of going along with his plans.

BUY NOW

It’s just a belated goodbye, right? No harm, no foul.

<br />

A FOOL FOR YOU

Foolproof Love #3

Katee Robert

Releasing Oct 3rd, 2016

Entangled: Brazen

<br />

Until six weeks later, when her pregnancy test comes back positive…

Daniel Rodriguez hasn’t forgiven himself for how things went down with Hope all those years ago. He knows she’s better off without him, but when she shows up on his doorstep, panicking because she’s pregnant with his baby, he can’t help seeing it as a chance to make up for the past.

Too bad Hope has no intention of going along with his plans.

BUY NOW

Amazon | B & N | iTunes | Kobo | Entangled

Other titles in the series

<br />

New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Katee Robert learned to tell her stories at her grandpa’s knee. She found romance novels at age twelve and they changed her life. When not writing sexy contemporary and romantic suspense, she spends her time playing imaginary games with her children, driving her husband batty with what-if questions, and planning for the inevitable zombie apocalypse.

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Excerpt

He turned to find Hope standing behind him. Again. “You sure move quiet when you want to.” Especially for a woman with a bum leg. Not that he could say as much without sounding like a jackass.

“You mean since I had my knee replaced.” Of course she knew what he meant anyway. Apparently damn near reading his mind was one annoying habit she hadn’t outgrown.

“I didn’t say that.”

“You didn’t have to.” She leveraged herself down next to him, the move not quiet as smooth as it’d been when she was eighteen.

Daniel almost cursed. He had to stop doing that. Comparing her now to how she was then wasn’t fair to either of them. It was another lifetime completely, and thinking about it was just fucking depressing. “Hope—”

“Are you seeing anyone?”

“No.”

“Why not?”

He was so surprised by the question that he answered honestly, “Why the fuck would I bother?”

“Oh, I don’t know, because you don’t want to be a creepy old man who lives in the middle of nowhere and has to run off silly high school kids with his shotgun because they tell ghost stories about him?”

He looked at her, half sure that she was the one who’d lost her damn mind. “That’s not a thing.”

“It is most definitely a thing.” She leaned back on her hands and stared at the sky. The most move arched her back and pressed her breasts against the fancy tank top she wore. It was made of some kind of drapey fabric that looked soft and shiny, and it highlighted the fact that he seriously doubted she was wearing a bra. “You’re too young to just give up.”

“It’s not about giving up.” Though he didn’t expect Hope to understand that. He’d checked up on her a few times since the accident, and every single time he was amazed at the things she’d accomplished. Life had kicked her in the teeth and she’d come back swinging. She’d taken two years off and then attended the University of Texas and graduated with honors. She ran her own successful consulting business to work with companies that wanted to set up scholarships and nonprofits.

She shifted to look at him. “It looks like giving up from where I’m sitting.”

_________________________________________

Tracey’s Review

***4.5 Heartbreaking, Sexy, Redemptive Stars***

Daniel Rodriguez has never forgiven himself for his part in the accident that cost the life of one of his best friends. Years have passed, and still, as far as he is concerned, the burden is his to carry. Hope Moore lost more than a brother that night thirteen years ago. She lost the one person that could have helped her navigate the pain of her suddenly empty world when Daniel turned his back on her, too mired in his own darkness to stand by her side, and Hope’s life has never been the same.

So, finally, we have it. I’ve been waiting for Daniel’s and Hope’s story. Because Daniel Rodriguez is all sorts of angsty, troubled, in-need-of-his-HEA cowboy, and I needed to see him get his happy back. And because Hope Moore has overcome many trials, but still has this one unhealed wound in her heart. And because a second-chance romance is near and dear to my heart, and this one has been thirteen Devil’s Falls years in the making.

The Foolproof Love series by author Katee Robert is one of my favorite this year. Katee has a way of writing that draws me in and snags me from page 1 every single time. I have so enjoyed both of the first books, and could not wait to read A FOOL FOR YOU, because I’ve had my eye on Daniel all the way through this series. I like a little bit of angst in my reads more times than not, and this book delivers in spades.

Daniel is still bearing the burden of guilt that started the night of the accident that claimed John’s life and badly injured Hope, John’s sister and the love of Daniel’s life. When Hope needed Daniel to be there for her, to help her adjust to her new normal, he was too full of self-blame to reach out, and so began the break that severed Hope’s and Daniel’s relationship and kept them apart for thirteen long years. But when Hope returns to Devil’s Falls to set up a scholarship in John’s memory, it takes less than no time for the flame between her and Daniel to roar back to life. The problem, though, is that so much time has passed, and Daniel still hasn’t forgiven himself. No matter, because the heart wants what the heart wants, and things get out of hand pretty quickly, leaving Hope and Daniel is a situation where they will be forever linked.

“Do you still love me, darling?”
Her breath stilled in her lungs, and her eyes went wide. The world tilted crazily around her like had last time she had the misfortune of being on a carnival ride. She hadn’t liked the experience any more then than she did now.
“What the hell kind of question is that?”
His smile was the very definition of smug.
“I thought so.”

Oh, heck, yes, the spark is still alive, and burning as hot as ever, but Hope isn’t sure that they can go back to the way that they were before. But despite the reservations of friends and family, despite the fact that Daniel can’t get out of his own way, he knows what he wants, and he knows that it’s Hope.

“We tried. We failed. Some things just aren’t meant to be.”
“You’re right…Some things aren’t. But we aren’t some things. A love like ours doesn’t come around more than once in a lifetime, and the fact we get a second chance to do it right is miracle enough. I don’t deserve a second chance-or third or fourth or whatever number chance we’re on now-but I’m here asking for it all the same.”

THUD. And, I’m done. And so is Hope, because, how in the world is she not going to give in to that?!

I’ll say it again, I loved this book, and I loved the series. My suggestion? Add them all to your TBR and get started. You can thank me later.

***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***

______________________________________

Other titles in the series

New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Katee
Robert learned to tell her stories at her grandpa’s knee. She found romance
novels at age twelve and they changed her life. When not writing sexy
contemporary and romantic suspense, she spends her time playing imaginary games
with her children, driving her husband batty with what-if questions, and
planning for the inevitable zombie apocalypse.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads

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Release Blitz + Review: Sweetest Taboo by J. Kenner – S.I.N. Trilogy – Book 3

Posted on 10/04/2016 by shellbellereads

Sweetest Taboo

S.I.N Trilogy – Book 3

By J. Kenner

In this irresistible Stark International Novel, J. Kenner ups the ante on Dirtiest Secret and Hottest Mess, proving once again with the S.I.N. series that she “may very well have cornered the market on sinfully attractive, dominant antiheroes and the women who swoon for them” (RT Book Reviews).

All eyes are on us . . . and there’s nowhere to run.

Everyone has their own ideas about Dallas Sykes: He’s a reckless billionaire, a devilish playboy, a man who gets whatever he wants the minute he wants it. But I know the real Dallas behind the money, bravado, and power—and he’s completely, blissfully mine.

We carefully guarded our secrets, and in each other’s arms we sought refuge from our dark past. Our pain became our pleasure, our control within the chaos. But we could only hide from the truth for so long.

Now we’ve let loose our inhibitions and are ready to face the future. And no matter what people think or say, coming clean is its own sweet reward.

Sweetest Taboo is intended for mature audiences.

Amazon US | Amazon Print | Audible CD | Amazon UK | Kobo | iBooks | iBooks UK | B&N/Nook | Google Play

Michel’s Review

The Sweetest Taboo by J. Kenner is the third book in the S.I.N. trilogy. It is a powerful conclusion for Dallas and Jane.

Dallas and Jane’s relationship is finally out in the open, but not without repercussions . Their parents have disowned them. Jane’s book that is being made into a movie may be cancelled. The woman that is stalking Dallas is now aware of his relationship with Jane.

To top it off , the secret organization that Dallas formed is facing exposure.

Jane and Dallas will finally find out who was behind their kidnapping when they were teens. It may cost them their lives and destroy what’s left of their family. It’s a high price to pay. The price is worth it because they can finally put the past behind them and move forward in their lives together.

They have loved one another all of their lives. It’s time to celebrate their love rather than hiding it. It’s their Sweetest Taboo.

J. Kenner did a stellar job with the grand finale of this trilogy. She paid close attention to details and wrapped the story up in a very realistic manner. I thoroughly enjoyed the S.I.N. trilogy.

From the New York Times bestselling author of such “racy, sizzling Stark novels” (RT Book Reviews) as Release Me and Say My Name comes the provocative first Stark International Novel—the beginning of the S.I.N. series.

It was wrong for us to be together, but it was even harder to be apart.

The memory of Dallas Sykes burns inside of me.

Everyone knows him as a notorious playboy, a man for whom women and money are no object. But to me, he’s still the one man I desperately crave—yet the one I can never have.

Dallas knows me better than anyone else. We bear the same scars, the same darkness in our past. I thought I could move on by staying away, but now that we’re drawn together once more, I can’t fight the force of our attraction or the temptation to make him mine.

We’ve tried to maintain control, not letting ourselves give in to desire. And for so long we’ve told ourselves no—but now it’s finally time to say yes.

Dirtiest Secret is intended for mature audiences.

Amazon US / Amazon US Print / Audible / iBooks / B&N/Nook

The S.I.N. series continues with the seductive follow-up to the Stark International Novel Dirtiest Secret, from the New York Times bestselling author of “red-hot and angsty” fiction that “keeps readers guessing” (Publishers Weekly, on Under My Skin).

No one can know about our love—and hiding only makes it hotter.

Dallas Sykes has a reputation. He is known for his parties, his money, and the countless women on his arm. Yet the Dallas I know is a different man—darker, smarter, and unbearably sexy. Just one look from him can leave me breathless; the anticipation of his touch can make me lose control.

Inextricably bound by our past, we keep each other’s secrets. And while there are people who have the power to hurt us, it’s the truth that threatens us most of all.

Dallas can be mine only behind closed doors, our passion as searing as it is forbidden. Yet nothing in this world has ever felt so desperately, deliciously right.

Hottest Mess is intended for mature audiences.

Amazon US / Amazon Print / Amazon UK / Amazon AU /

Audible Kobo / iBooks B&N/Nook

_________________________________________________

J. Kenner (aka Julie Kenner) is the New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly, Wall Street Journal and #1 International bestselling author of over seventy novels, novellas and short stories in a variety of genres.

Though known primarily for her award-winning and international bestselling erotic romances (including the Stark and Most Wanted series) that have reached as high as #2 on the New York Times bestseller list, JK has been writing full time for over a decade in a variety of genres including paranormal and contemporary romance, “chicklit” suspense, urban fantasy, and paranormal mommy lit.

JK has been praised by Publishers Weekly as an author with a “flair for dialogue and eccentric characterizations” and by RT Bookclub for having “cornered the market on sinfully attractive, dominant antiheroes and the women who swoon for them.” A five time finalist for Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA award, JK took home the first RITA trophy awarded in the category of erotic romance in 2014 for her novel, Claim Me (book 2 of her Stark Trilogy). Her Demon Hunting Soccer Mom series (as Julie Kenner) is currently in development with AwesomenessTV/Awestruck.

Her books have sold over three million copies and are published in over twenty languages.

In her previous career as an attorney, JK worked as a clerk on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and practiced primarily civil, entertainment and First Amendment litigation in Los Angeles and Irvine, California, as well as in Austin, Texas. She currently lives in Central Texas, with her husband, two daughters, and two rather spastic cats.

Blog Tour + Review: Drawn Deeper by Brenda Rothert – The Lockhart Brothers Series – Book 3

Posted on 09/28/2016 by shellbellereads

Drawn Deeper by Brenda Rothert

Lockhart Brothers, #3

PURCHASE IT NOW!

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Book Blurb:

I’ve come undone. For years I thought the world looked at my family and saw perfection. I was a busy surgeon and my wife was devoted to our two boys. But her devotion crumbled as her alcoholism took over. The outside world saw all too well what I wanted to deny.

Ten months ago she filed for divorce, packed up and moved away. To where – I don’t know. Nor do I care. But my boys do. And they’re left with me, a man who never learned how to be the dad they deserve.

Just when I’m starting to pick up the pieces, my world is rocked again by the last woman I’d expect. Given her past with my family, she’s a bad idea. But I’m drawn like a moth to a flame. I can’t stay away, even though I know this, too, will eventually crumble around me.

EXCERPT

We could hear the laughter inside my parents’ house through the screen door on the back sunroom.
I opened the door and Jordan and Eric walked in beneath my arm. As we walked into the kitchen, I saw that we were the last to arrive for dinner this Friday night.
My nephew Noah and was chasing my niece Alana around the kitchen. My brother Reed was talking to our dad, his arm around his wife Ivy’s waist. Another of my brothers, Mason, was carving a roast, his girlfriend April drying her hands on a dish towel. The last of my brothers who lived in Lovely, Austin, was chasing after Noah and Alana while his wife Hannah looked on with amusement.
“There you are,” my mom said, walking into the kitchen and hugging me.
Jordan and Eric gave her hugs before running off to the back yard.
“How are you, honey?” Mom asked me.
“Good.”
She looked at me for a second, gauging whether I meant it. My parents knew I’d struggled to get my shit together after Kim left.
“I’m good, Mom. Really. You need help with anything?”
“No, everything’s just about ready.” She leaned against the counter and smiled up at me. “Have you heard that Gretchen Palmer’s divorce is final now?”
“Nope.”
“I always liked her.”
“Maybe you should ask her out,” I said wryly.
She gave me a pointed look. “I just think it would be good for you to get out. All you do is work and take care of the boys.”
I shrugged. “I don’t want to date, Mom.”
“I’m just suggesting—”
“I know. But I’m good.”
“Have you heard from Kim at all? Does she check on the boys?”
I shook my head. “I’m gonna grab a beer, okay?”
She nodded and pushed away from the counter. Even after ten months, my mom couldn’t understand how Kim could just leave her children.
I was over it, because I’d lived it. Kim’s glass or two of wine in the evening had become half a bottle, and then she’d started drinking during the day. I’d turned a blind eye, too wrapped up in work to consider that my wife was an alcoholic.
When she left me, Kim told me she felt like she’d missed out on a lot by marrying her high school sweetheart. By that point, I didn’t even want to fight her on it anymore. We’d gotten a quick, amicable divorce and she’d split.
My family had been supportive, but still, I was the odd man out now. Everyone but me was half of a couple. My youngest brother, Justin, was unattached, but he was finishing up law school in St. Louis, so he wasn’t home much.
I’d been the first of the five boys to get married and have kids. But when I saw the way Reed looked at Ivy, his expression full of admiration and warmth, I knew they had something Kim and I never did.

___________________________

Tracey’s Review

Ah, I have been waiting for Kyle’s book for ages! This eldest Lockhart brother has had my interest and attention since meeting him in DEEP DOWN, the first book in the Lockhart Brothers series by author Brenda Rothert, and I am excited to finally be able to read his story.

It’s taken time and a lot of work, but Dr. Kyle Lockhart has finally found a place of normalcy for himself and his two young sons. Working past the pain of a marriage long gone bad and his wife’s desertion, Kyle’s not interested in anything but maintaining a safe and loving environment for his boys. Sure, he’s lonely sometimes, but taking care of his sons is his main priority, so making time for a woman isn’t even really on his radar.

Meredith Hobbs knows all too well what it means to be lonely, too. The former fiancée of Kyle’s brother Reed, Meredith has been pretty much persona non grata in their small town of Lovely since she left Reed at the altar many years before . But Kyle isn’t concerned with the past, and is happy to take Meredith up on her offer to tutor his two sons in her spare time. Soon enough, the friendship between Kyle and Meredith changes into something much more, and leaves both of them feeling like second chances are definitely possible.

DRAWN DEEPER was most definitely worth the wait. Who knew that such a passionate man existed beneath the calm cool exterior that Dr. Lockhart projects (I had my suspicions, but, like, whoa, Dr. Kyle!)? One of the things that I like most about Kyle is his ability to look beyond Meredith’s past actions and appreciate her for who she has become. And Meredith, who had come across as not so necessarily likable in the past books, is really much stronger than she knows. Finding the love of the right man, and sharing the feeling of having a real family, brought out a whole new strength in her, and it was a pleasure to see her grow more into the current version of herself.

Brenda has done a great job of portraying all of the aspects that make Kyle a great dad, doctor, son, and lover, and seeing him and Meredith get their HEA is extremely satisfying. 4.5 ‘heartwarming but hot second-chance’ stars for Kyle and Meredith. I’m looking forward to HIDDEN DEPTH, the next book in the series, because, more Lockhart brothers? Yes, please!

***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***

———————

AUTHOR INFORMATION:

Brenda Rothert is an Illinois native who was a print journalist for nine years. She made the jump from fact to fiction in 2013 and never looked back. From new adult to steamy contemporary romance, Brenda creates fresh characters in every story she tells. She’s a lover of Diet Coke, chocolate, lazy weekends and happily ever afters.

AUTHOR LINKS:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | | Wattpad | Amazon

Series Review: The Wingman Series by Daisy Prescott

Posted on 09/23/2016 by shellbellereads

Get READY TO FALL

Book 1

Tall, dark, and handsome is an understatement when it comes to John Day. With rugged good looks, his ever present plaid shirt, and a dog named Babe, John is a modern alpha male lumberjack.

After his favorite neighbor rents out her beach cabin for the winter, John finds himself playing fireman and tour guide to Diane Watson, a beautiful brunette with her own messy past and recent battle scars.

Will he be ready to fall in love? Or will he go back to his old, flirty ways?

Hold onto your heart as John Day tells his story in this male POV contemporary adult romance/romantic comedy.

Ready to Fall is the first novel in the Wingmen series, a spin-off from Modern Love Stories. Each book is a standalone with no cliffhanger.

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Tracey’s Review

In the end, everyone leaves. At least, that’s been John Day’s experience. So, sure, he’s all for having a good time when it comes to the ladies, and, heck, you could even say he’s dating, but, long-term? Nah, not him. When Diane Watson comes from off-island to spend some time at the cabin next door to John, well, he’s just being neighborly, making sure that she has everything that she needs. Soon enough, though, John is just as interested in seeing Diane smile, knowing more about her, spending time with her, and, well, just, her.

I discovered Daisy Prescott’s books a little later, so am just meeting and loving the Wingmen of Whidbey Island, Washington. Daisy has created a quirky but loveable community of people that are steadfast in their sense of community and a little bit kooky at times, and I thoroughly enjoy them all.

John is just fine living life the way that he is. He’s got his job, he’s got his aunt and uncle, and he’s got his buddies, plus he’s making his adolescent dreams come true by dating his high school crush. What’s not to like? When Diane, escaping to Whidbey in the midst of a less-than-friendly divorce, shows up, John does what any good Whidbeyite would do, and takes her under his wing to make sure that she has everything that she needs to live on the island.

One of the things that I like most about this, and others of Daisy’s books, is that things develop over time. Neither John nor Diane is looking at the other as potential dating material (no, that’s all Tom Donely, and he’s a hoot!), and, while there are glimmers of attraction along the way, Daisy takes the time to develop a friendship between them. I thoroughly enjoyed their interactions, their banter, and seeing both of them open up as they became more comfortable with each other. The friends-to-lovers trope is one of my favorites, and Daisy does it humorously and well.

READY TO FALL is 4.5 stars worth of sweet, sexy, redemptive, lumberjacky loveliness, and I just adored it. The icing on the cake, so to speak, is the short epilogue-like addition of TAKE THE CAKE AND RUN, and was the perfect way to end John’s and Diane’s story. Daisy’s stories have become some of my favorites, and, if you haven’t read her WINGMEN books yet, you’re missing out. Grab these books and settle in, because you’re going to love them.

***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***

*****

CONFESSIONS OF A REFORMED TOM CAT

Book 2

, Thomas Clifford Donnely, am a manwhore.

You can call me Tom Cat. I’ve been told I’m irresistible to women. Like catnip for a different kind of pussy-cat.
This is the story about how I lost my wingman, broke all my own rules, and found myself falling in love.

Tom Donnely isn’t the marrying kind, or the dating kind. Even after losing his #1 wingman to love, he doesn’t see the point in relationships. When his sister’s best friend returns to Whidbey Island and propositions Donnely for a one-night stand, he breaks one of his biggest rules–no fooling around with his sisters’ friends. It’s just sex, nothing more. That’s what Tom does and does well.

What happens when “just sex” isn’t enough?

Hailey King is more than a match for Tom’s flirtations. She’s known him most of her life and has heard the rumors about his “skills” for years. When her perfectly planned future falls apart, will the last man she should ever fall for turn out to be more than a one-night stand?

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Michel’s Review

This is the first book I have read by Daisy Prescott. I absolutely loved her writing style, witty dialogue, and sense of humor. The Confessions of A Reformed Tom Cat was entertaining, fun, charming, sexy, and romantic. I loved that the book was written from Tom’s POV and each chapter was a confession. He is a fun guy that doesn’t take himself too seriously and recognizes his faults as well as strengths. He loves his family, he’s hard working, he’s honest, and he’s true. Watching this man whore fall was fun and swoon worthy.

Hailey is one of those heroines that is easy to love. She has known Tom since childhood. He is her best friend’s older brother. She’s got his number, she knows that he is a manwhore with a revolving door. She still can’t help falling for him. When it becomes clear that she is the perfect woman for him, she gives him a few lessons that will capture his attention and heart.

This book was a fun, witty, and sexy read. I highly recommend it.

*****

ANYTHING BUT LOVE

Book 3

Another wingman bites the dust in this enemies-to-lovers standalone romantic comedy.

For the past year, I’ve been working my butt off to start my own coffee company on Whidbey.

A weekend in Cabo with sun, tiny bikinis, and vacation hook-ups is exactly the kind of tension relief I need.

What I don’t need is a bruised jaw, having to bribe my way out of jail, a hellion set on ruining my life, and my mother seeing a picture of my assets on “The Twitter.”

Caribou Caldwell is my worst nightmare.
Unfortunately, she’s also the star of my sexiest dreams.

What happens when a small town guy becomes the focus of a million fantasies? As Erik Kelso navigates his sudden notoriety, will his feelings for Cari turn out to be anything but love?

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Tracey’s Review

One unguarded moment. That’s all it takes for Erik Kelso to become an overnight media sensation. Faster than he can say ‘Cheese!’ Erik’s backside is plastered across social media outlets, bringing him and the good people of Whidbey Island into the spotlight in a way that he could never have anticipated. What’s worse? The person, erm, behind it all is the sassy woman currently starring in Erik’s less-than-innocent dreams…

What makes a book a winning read for me? Laugh-out-loud moments, snark and wit, characters that I can see wanting to spend time with, and a story line that doesn’t quit. I can say, without a doubt, that Daisy Prescott delivers on every single one of these things with ANYTHING BUT LOVE, the latest book in her Wingmen series.

Daisy has done an excellent job of capturing the current state of instant fame, where hashtags rule and Snapchat can be your friend…or not. The characters in ANYTHING BUT LOVE are typical, everyday kind of folks, living life in the 21st century. Regardless of age or gender, everyone is swept up in the furor that erupts when Erik’s fanny becomes the most sought-after unicorn of the moment. I spent a good amount of my time literally laughing out loud at the situations that Erik found himself in as a result of his momentary lack of judgment. That it takes place amidst the small-town atmosphere of Whidbey Island, Washington, with all of the usual suspects from Daisy’s prior books, makes it an even more heartwarming and entertaining read.

I really appreciate that, between crazy chase scenes and some uber-steamy moments, Daisy takes the time to remind us that even characters in books have to deal with the same issues that we do. Family secrets, money problems, poor health, unrequited love, these are part of everyday life for everybody, and seeing that Erik, Cari, and the rest of the crew have to deal with them just made me appreciate this book, and Daisy’s writing, even more. ANYTHING BUT LOVE is an easy 4.5-star read for me, and I can’t wait for the next book in the Wingmen series. Add Erik and his story to your TBR, because it is one that you do not want to miss.

***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***

*****

Better Love

Book 4

Release Date: October 24, 2016

Pre Order: IBooks

Synopsis

Maybe that old song got it right.

Maybe love can be better the second time around.

When one of my wingmen needs help, I’ll do anything for him, including calling in a favor with the one person I swore I’d never speak to again.

Not after I walked away from that life five years ago and ditched the trappings of my success. The keyword being trap.

I left it all behind.

Including her.

Now the ambitious, brilliant, talented, and undeniably beautiful Roslyn Porter is back in my life. I’m not the same person she knew. I’m trying to be a better man.

No man is an island, but Dan Ashland comes close. He’s content with his quiet life on Whidbey, a world away from the rat race on the other side of the ferry.

Dan has three great loves in his life: solitude, pizza, and Roslyn Porter.

Better Love is a standalone second chance romance featuring Dan Ashland and the fourth book in the Wingmen series.

————–

AUTHOR INFORMATION:

USA Today Bestselling Author Daisy Prescott writes romantic comedies with heart.

Her Modern Love Stories feature characters in their thirties and forties finding and rediscovering love in unexpected and humorous ways. Her Wingmen books star regular guys who often have beards, drive trucks, and love deeply once they fall.

Born and raised in San Diego, Daisy currently lives in a real life Stars Hollow in the Boston suburbs with her husband and an imaginary house goat. When not writing about herself in the third person, Daisy can be found traveling, gardening, baking, or lost in a good book.

AUTHOR LINKS:
Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Amazon | Newsletter

New Release + Review + Giveaway: A Player For A Princess by Tia Louise – Dirty Players Series – Book 2

Posted on 09/22/2016 by shellbellereads

About A PLAYER FOR A PRINCESS

From the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, the game continues…

Zelda Wilder is on the run, this time from the ruthless assassins who’ve decided she knows too much to live.

“Playboy Prince” MacCallum Lockwood Tate isn’t about to let the beautiful player who stole his heart get away—if only he could decide whether he wants to save her or strangle her for her dangerous choices.

After tracking her down to a casino in St. Croix, Cal follows Zee back to Tortola where he intends to keep her safe. One problem: Zelda’s criminal liaisons are two steps ahead of her.

Lives are threatened, and all of the players’ skills are tested in this plot to capture a killer and save a princess.

Cinderella meets Ocean’s Eleven in this CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE DUET featuring secrets, lies, royal high jinks, scams and double-crosses; breathless, swooning lust, cocky princes, dominant alpha future-kings, and crafty courtiers, who are not always what they seem.

Grab A PLAYER FOR A PRINCESS now:

Amazon | iBooks | Barnes and Noble | Kobo | ARe

ADD it on Goodreads: http://smarturl.it/PLPgr

LISTEN to the playlist on Spotify: https://goo.gl/lfRGpH

SEE the inspiration board on Pinterest: https://goo.gl/Fyvl58

______________________________________

Tracey’s Review

Zelda Wilder has made a mistake. She knows better than to let anything get in the way of her con, but he did. McCallum Lockwood Tate slipped right through her defenses, and now Zelda is not only running from the people that want her dead, she’s running from her feelings for Cal.

Every single interaction between Zelda and Cal is sizzling. Cal knows now what Zee is all about, and, although he’s angry that she played him, stole his heart, and ran, he can’t stay away. Zelda is torn, knowing that she and Cal are completely wrong for each other, but unable to forget him. I love the interactions between the two of them, and watching them fall, in typical Tia Louise fashion, when they know that they shouldn’t.

The action in A PLAYER FOR A PRINCESS flows right from the ending of THE PRINCE AND THE PLAYER, so reading them in order is a great idea. 4.5 hot, suspenseful, uber-sexy stars for this one. They will grab you and suck you in, and, before you know it, you’ll have fallen love with Tia all over again.

***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***

_______________________________________

★★★ Missed Book #1? ★★★

Pick up THE PRINCE & THE PLAYER for just .99c for a limited time!!!

“Tons of laughs, sex, and suspense…THE PRINCE & THE PLAYER had me on the edge of my seat, biting my nails, and blushing like crazy!” – Shayna Renee’s Spicy Reads

Let the games begin…

Runaway Zelda Wilder will do whatever it takes to secure a better life for her and her sister Ava. Crown Prince Rowan Westringham Tate will do whatever it takes to preserve his small country.

When Zee is blackmailed into helping a vengeful statesman take down Rowan, she never expects she’ll be pulled into a web of lies and international intrigue–much less that she’ll find herself falling for Cal, Rowan’s “playboy” younger brother.

Ava’s no help, as she finds quiet walks in the moonlight discussing poetry and leadership with the brooding future king irresistible. Even more irresistible is kissing his luscious lips.

They’re in over their heads, and the more time passes, the more danger the sisters are in. Shots are fired, and it’s soon clear even a prince might not be able to rescue these players.

★ GET The Prince & The Player for .99c for a limited time ★

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Print Copies: Amazon | Createspace

Audiobooks: Amazon | Audible | iTunes

Want to win?

Want to win a $50 Amazon giftcard and an audiobook of THE PRINCE & THE PLAYER? Enter to win via the rafflecopter below!

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About Tia Louise

The “Queen of Hot Romance,” Tia Louise is the Award-Winning, International Bestselling author of the ONE TO HOLD series.

From “Readers’ Choice” nominations, to USA Today “Happily Ever After” nods, to winning the 2015 “Favorite Erotica Author” and the 2014 “Lady Boner Award” (LOL!), nothing makes her happier than communicating with fans and weaving new tales into the Alexander-Knight world of stories.

A former journalist, Louise lives in the center of the USA with her lovely family and one grumpy cat. There, she dreams up stories she hopes are engaging, hot, and sexy, and that cause readers rethink common public locations…

Release Blitz + Review: Wolf Prey by Nina West – Wolf Cove Series – Book 3

Posted on 09/18/2016 by shellbellereads

**Nina West’s WOLF PREY, the highly anticipated next book in her Wolf Cove Series is now available! Check out this sexy excerpt for WOLF PREY and be sure to grab your copy today!**

About WOLF PREY (Wolf Cove Series #3):

Forced to leave Alaska to run the family farm while her father recovers from a tragic accident, Abbi heads home knowing she has the one thing she wants most again –Henry’s affections. She’s determined to not let anyone get in the way of that again.

But love for Abbi has never been easy.

With an overbearing mother who believes she has the right to approve who her daughter loves, a childhood ex-boyfriend who will do anything to win her back, and a wealthy, handsome boyfriend who always gets what he wants, Abbi soon realizes she may have to make some impossible choices.

Wolf Prey is Book 3 in the Wolf Cove series and should be read after finishing Wolf Bait (Book 1) and Wolf Bite (Book 2).

Amazon US | Amazon UK

Add WOLF PREY to your Goodreads!

Excerpt:

My heart skips two beats and then starts pounding against my breastbone.

“Henry!” I shriek, unable to keep any level of composure thanks to my excitement. I take off, running as fast as I can in flip-flops, ignoring the pain in my chest that comes with running in a bikini with crappy support.

He leans back against the side of the truck with his legs crossed at the ankles and his hands tucked into his pockets, and watches me approach with that sexy smirk curling his lip. A smirk he has perfected and should outright trademark.

I may look like a childish idiot, but I don’t care, the gravel crunching under my feet as I tear across the driveway and throw myself at his hard body, my arms snaking around his neck to lock in a tight squeeze.

He slips his hands from his pockets to scoop me up with ease, his deep chuckle vibrating throughout my body. “I don’t think I’ve ever had a welcome quite like that,” he murmurs, setting me on the ground after a long moment.

I take a moment to catch my breath as I admire his marvelous face, committing his crystal-blue eyes and long dark lashes to a fresh memory. And those lips… I miss the feel of them on me so much. “What are you doing here? I thought you were in Prague?” I ask through pants.

His gaze drops to my mouth, and my thighs clench instantly in anticipation. “I was, but I had to be in New York tonight for a meeting. I figured I’d stop here first. I can’t stay too long, though.” He leans forward and I close my eyes, waiting eagerly for his kiss. But he pauses. “Why are you all wet?”

“Oh.” I giggle. “I was just in the pond.”

“Hard at work, I see.” He gives me a mock frown but I know he’s teasing.

“We’ve been busting our butts all morning actually. Just took a break to cool off, it’s so hot.”

“Yeah, I’m missing the Alaska temperatures right now.” There’s a pause. “Who’s we?”

“Just my two summer workers. And Jed, of course.”

If my arms hadn’t been around Henry’s neck, I probably wouldn’t have noticed the sudden tension that stiffens him. “Fuckface?”

“Yeah. He’s been helping around here, a lot. I told you that.”

“Right.” He frowns. “How often is that, again?”

“He’s here every day.”

“Every day.”

“You know I can’t do this on my own, Henry.”

“Which is why I offered to arrange for help.”

“And you know exactly why I couldn’t take you up on that.” Mama outright refused to accept his offer. It’s not for pride, because she’s had no trouble accepting help from every last member of our church.

“I’ve been told that she hasn’t stayed at the hotel, either.”

“The Enderbeys have a cousin in Pittsburgh she’s staying with.” In a spare bedroom with no air conditioning that requires Mama—all 370 pounds of her—to climb three flights of stairs every day. Even Jed’s dad tried to persuade her to take Henry’s offer of a luxury suite at the Wolf, but she won’t willingly accept a dime from “the wolf who’s preying on her daughter’s innocence.”

He shakes his head. “Stubborn woman.”

“I know. There’s nothing I can do. I’ve tried to reason with her.” I can’t tell anymore if her pigheadedness is borne of her being hung up on having her daughter married to the Reverend’s son, or that she simply wants me within arm’s reach until the day she dies, and she won’t have that if I’m with a man like Henry.

“They’re releasing Daddy today, though. Isn’t that great?” I lean against his body, letting my fingers slide over all the hard ridges and contours of his beautiful back and then his shoulders, and his arms. I stretch onto my tiptoes, wanting to go back to the part where he kisses me.

Henry’s attention is not easily swayed though. “Does he know you’re not his anymore?”

I sigh. “Yes. He’s trying to convince me otherwise, but I’ve told him many times.”

I skate my lips over his. He finally takes the hint, his hands grippingthe sides of my waist, sealing his lips over mineand kissing me with a level of skill that I might consider being concerned with, if I wasn’t so head-over-heels infatuated with him.

A tiny moan escapes me and he instantly deepens the kiss, forcing my mouth open wide to make room for his tongue. My hands wander over his chest, molding over his curves. “I’ve been thinking about this moment for weeks,” I whisper against his mouth. My daydreams always end with my hands moving south, into his jeans. If we weren’t out in the open, it’s exactly what I’d be doing already.

“Phone calls aren’t enough, then?”

“Not even close.”

Tracey’s Review

Life back at home on the family farm is exactly what Abigail Mitchell expected. Returning to Pennsylvania from Alaska when her father suffers a serious accident, Abbi is having a difficult time making her mother and the rest of the town understand that she is not back to stay. Now that Abbi has reconciled with Henry Wolf, the last thing on her agenda is getting back together with her former boyfriend, Jed, and settling down to run the farm. Because, all of that was life before. Before Alaska, before Henry, before Abbi knew what it was like to experience all that living away from home had to offer.

Hot, oh, my goodness, this book is scorching. Like, I’m blushing, I need a fan, oh, my WORD, hot. Time and distance have done nothing to dull the explosive chemistry between Abbi and Henry. Although circumstances don’t allow for the two of them to spend much time together, the time that they do have is plenty steamy. And, globe-spanning scenery and backroom shenanigans aside, even though Henry hasn’t said those three little words yet, he continues to prove that he’s all in. Or so Abbi hopes…

I happened upon this series by chance, but have quickly become very invested in seeing where things go with Abbi and Henry. And, while this was due to be the last book in the series, Nina has decided to give us one more, so there is more to come. With the way that things ended in WOLF PREY, I can’t wait to see how the story wraps up. Let’s just say that I’m keeping my fingers crossed that things go the way I’m thinking. In the meantime, 4.5 seriously steamy stars for WOLF PREY. And, by the way, I heartily recommend reading these books in order, so grab them all and settle in. It’s going to be a very interesting ride.

***ARC provided for an honest review.***

_____________________________________

**And don’t miss the first books in the Wolf Cove Series, WOLF BAIT and WOLF BITE!**

WOLF BAIT Amazon US
WOLF BAIT Amazon UK

WOLF BITE Amazon US
WOLF BITE Amazon UK

About Nina West:

Nina West lives in the city but spends her summers in the wilderness with her husband. She loves having a steaming cup of cocoa in one hand and a steamy story full of angst in the other. Follow her on Facebook or on Twitter!

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From the award-winning author of the Rock Star Romance books comes a sizzling new series about the O’Donnell siblings. The pull of wild love is irresistible.

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True love won’t be denied.

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But when he falls too deeply, when he loses sight of his priorities, he might just lose it all.

Order MINE FOR NOW in ebook or paperback, releasing 10/4/16

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We are thrilled to get to bring to you the Review & Excerpt Tour for New York Times Bestselling Author Nichole Chase’s BEDMATES, the first standalone novel in her new American Royalty Series! Be sure to check out all of the stops in this amazing tour and grab your copy of BEDMATES today!

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Drawn Deeper by Brenda Rothert

Lockhart Brothers, #3

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I’ve come undone. For years I thought the world looked at my family and saw perfection. I was a busy surgeon and my wife was devoted to our two boys. But her devotion crumbled as her alcoholism took over. The outside world saw all too well what I wanted to deny.

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CONFESSIONS OF A REFORMED TOM CAT

ANYTHING BUT LOVE

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Nina West’s WOLF PREY, the highly anticipated next book in her Wolf Cove Series is now available! Check out this sexy excerpt for WOLF PREY and be sure to grab your copy today!

About WOLF PREY (Wolf Cove Series #3):

Forced to leave Alaska to run the family farm while her father recovers from a tragic accident, Abbi heads home knowing she has the one thing she wants most again –Henry’s affections. She’s determined to not let anyone get in the way of that again.

But love for Abbi has never been easy.

With an overbearing mother who believes she has the right to approve who her daughter loves, a childhood ex-boyfriend who will do anything to win her back, and a wealthy, handsome boyfriend who always gets what he wants, Abbi soon realizes she may have to make some impossible choices.

Wolf Prey is Book 3 in the Wolf Cove series and should be read after finishing Wolf Bait (Book 1) and Wolf Bite (Book 2).

Amazon US | Amazon UK

Excerpt:

My heart skips two beats and then starts pounding against my breastbone.

“Henry!” I shriek, unable to keep any level of composure thanks to my excitement. I take off, running as fast as I can in flip-flops, ignoring the pain in my chest that comes with running in a bikini with crappy support.

He leans back against the side of the truck with his legs crossed at the ankles and his hands tucked into his pockets, and watches me approach with that sexy smirk curling his lip. A smirk he has perfected and should outright trademark.

I may look like a childish idiot, but I don’t care, the gravel crunching under my feet as I tear across the driveway and throw myself at his hard body, my arms snaking around his neck to lock in a tight squeeze.

He slips his hands from his pockets to scoop me up with ease, his deep chuckle vibrating throughout my body. “I don’t think I’ve ever had a welcome quite like that,” he murmurs, setting me on the ground after a long moment.

I take a moment to catch my breath as I admire his marvelous face, committing his crystal-blue eyes and long dark lashes to a fresh memory. And those lips… I miss the feel of them on me so much. “What are you doing here? I thought you were in Prague?” I ask through pants.

“Oh.” I giggle. “I was just in the pond.”

“Hard at work, I see.” He gives me a mock frown but I know he’s teasing.

“We’ve been busting our butts all morning actually. Just took a break to cool off, it’s so hot.”

“Yeah, I’m missing the Alaska temperatures right now.” There’s a pause. “Who’s we?”

“Just my two summer workers. And Jed, of course.”

If my arms hadn’t been around Henry’s neck, I probably wouldn’t have noticed the sudden tension that stiffens him. “Fuckface?”

“Yeah. He’s been helping around here, a lot. I told you that.”

“Right.” He frowns. “How often is that, again?”

“He’s here every day.”

“Every day.”

“You know I can’t do this on my own, Henry.”

“Which is why I offered to arrange for help.”

“And you know exactly why I couldn’t take you up on that.” Mama outright refused to accept his offer. It’s not for pride, because she’s had no trouble accepting help from every last member of our church.

“I’ve been told that she hasn’t stayed at the hotel, either.”

He shakes his head. “Stubborn woman.”

“They’re releasing Daddy today, though. Isn’t that great?” I lean against his body, letting my fingers slide over all the hard ridges and contours of his beautiful back and then his shoulders, and his arms. I stretch onto my tiptoes, wanting to go back to the part where he kisses me.

Henry’s attention is not easily swayed though. “Does he know you’re not his anymore?”

I sigh. “Yes. He’s trying to convince me otherwise, but I’ve told him many times.”

AUTHOR LINKS:
Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Amazon | Newsletter

**Nina West’s WOLF PREY, the highly anticipated next book in her Wolf Cove Series is now available! Check out this sexy excerpt for WOLF PREY and be sure to grab your copy today!**

**And don’t miss the first books in the Wolf Cove Series, WOLF BAIT and WOLF BITE!**